Hamburg Faces Challenges Managing Expiring Pandemic Mask Stockpile

Millions of protective masks in Hamburg's crisis reserve near expiration, prompting plans for improved inventory strategies by 2026.

Hamburg has stockpiled over 4 million FFP2 and 3 million surgical masks, alongside gloves and gowns, as part of its pandemic preparedness reserve.
A significant portion of the masks, particularly FFP2 masks, are set to expire by summer 2025, raising concerns over waste and resource management.
Legal barriers prevent the large-scale donation of expiring masks to private healthcare facilities, leading to their planned incineration.
Some of the protective equipment has been utilized for humanitarian aid, including shipments to Ukraine, as an alternative to waste.
Starting in 2026, Hamburg aims to partner with a hospital operator to maintain a rolling inventory system, ensuring continuous renewal and usability of critical supplies.