39241000
PLASTICS AND ARTICLES THEREOF›Tableware, kitchenware, other household articles and hygienic or toilet articles, of plastics
Tableware and kitchenware
Description of plastic tableware
CN code 3924 10 covers tableware and kitchenware of plastics including plates, bowls, cups, glasses, cutlery, jugs, salad bowls, serving trays and other articles for eating and food preparation. Common materials include melamine (MF resin), PP for everyday and children's tableware, and Tritan (copolyester) offering glass-like clarity without BPA. Single-use PS and PP tableware is subject to SUP restrictions. The market covers reusable (camping, outdoor, catering, children's) and single-use segments, with the latter facing increasing environmental regulation.
SUP regulations and food safety
Import of plastic tableware faces stringent EU regulations. The SUP Directive bans single-use plastic plates and cutlery since July 2021. The ban covers plates, forks, knives, spoons, chopsticks and stirrers. Reusable tableware is not banned. Melamine tableware must meet migration limits for melamine (2.5 mg/kg) and formaldehyde (15 mg/kg) under Regulation (EU) No 10/2011. Regulation (EU) 2024/3190 introduces import controls on melamine tableware from third countries. Children's tableware faces additional safety requirements.
Trade and classification
Plastic tableware under CN code 3924 10 saw dramatic import declines after SUP bans in 2021. The market shifted toward reusable items and biodegradable alternatives. Melamine tableware imports face enhanced border controls. Plastic tableware is classified under 3924 10; ceramics under 6911/6912; glass under 7013. Single-use plastic plates and cutlery may be detained at EU borders.
Properties of Plastic tableware and trade applications
Plastic products classified under CN code 3924 10 may be subject to food contact material regulations (Regulation (EC) 1935/2004 and (EU) 10/2011) and the SUP Directive (EU) 2019/904 on single-use plastics restriction. Import requires food-contact compliance declarations, technical data sheets and REACH registration for chemical substances. Customs authorities verify product compliance with EU safety standards and environmental regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Which single-use tableware items are banned in the EU?
The SUP Directive bans single-use plastic plates and cutlery (forks, knives, spoons, chopsticks) since July 2021. The ban covers items made wholly or partly from plastic. Single-use beverage cups are not banned but face labelling and EPR charges. Reusable plastic tableware is permitted. Single-use alternatives from wood, paper and compostable bioplastics replace banned items.
What migration limits apply to melamine tableware?
Melamine food contact tableware must comply with Regulation (EU) No 10/2011: melamine - 2.5 mg/kg food; formaldehyde - 15 mg/kg food. Migration testing uses food simulants at 70°C for 2 hours (standard conditions). Melamine tableware should not be used in microwaves or for hot food above 70°C as elevated temperature increases migration significantly.
Do Tritan tableware items require BPA-free certificates?
Tritan (Eastman copolyester) is BPA-free by composition. Tritan tableware must comply with Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 including migration testing. While Tritan contains no BPA, importers should hold a declaration of conformity. BPA-free certificates are not legally required in the EU but valued by consumers and useful in marketing communications.
Are products CN 3924 10 affected by the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive?
Some products CN 3924 10 may be affected by SUP Directive (EU) 2019/904 restricting single-use plastics. Bans cover cutlery, plates and straws. Importers must verify whether their products fall under the restrictions.
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