Kaufland sells water bottles just over deposit limit in Poland

A German supermarket chain, Kaufland, has identified a loophole in Poland"s newly implemented bottle deposit return system by selling water bottles just 1 milliliter over the deposit limit. This system, which took effect on October 1, 2025, requires Polish customers to pay a deposit of 50 groszy (approximately €0.12) on plastic bottles up to three liters and metal cans up to one liter. Additionally, a deposit of €0.23 is required for reusable glass bottles up to 1.5 liters.

To circumvent these regulations, Kaufland is offering Ustronianka water, a popular Polish brand, in bottles that contain 3.001 liters of water, exceeding the deposit threshold. This strategy allows the retailer to avoid the deposit fees mandated by the new law.

This development highlights ongoing challenges in the implementation of environmental regulations in Poland. For further context on similar situations, see recent developments in related coverage.