Recycling labels are something consumers see every day, but the requirements behind those familiar symbols are changing.
For brands that use flexible packaging, these changes raise important questions about how they can prepare.
Morris Packaging is committed to helping our customers stay ahead of SB 343 developments by proactively updating How2Recycle labels to comply with regulatory changes.
California SB 343, often referred to as the state's Truth in Labeling law, was established to address misleading recyclability claims on products and packaging.
Under the law, packaging generally cannot be labeled or marketed as recyclable unless it meets California's applicable recyclability criteria. This includes restrictions on the familiar chasing-arrows recycling symbol and on other statements or symbols that suggest a package is recyclable.
The requirements go beyond simply removing a symbol.
A packaging material must meet specific criteria based on California's recycling system before a recyclability claim can be made. That means a package's material composition and how it is collected or processed can affect whether it qualifies.
For companies selling products in California, understanding these distinctions is important, particularly when the same packaging is distributed nationally.
SB 343's labeling restrictions were originally scheduled to apply to products and packaging manufactured after October 4, 2026.
However, on July 14, 2026, a federal court issued a preliminary injunction blocking enforcement of the law.
While this does not mean that SB 343 has been repealed, the law remains subject to ongoing litigation. CalRecycle, the state agency responsible for implementing and managing the data behind California SB 343, is continuing its required material characterization work, including plans for another study in 2027. These studies help determine which materials and packaging formats meet California's recyclability criteria.
For brands, the key takeaway is that enforcement may be on hold, but the conversation around recyclability claims continues. Businesses should continue reviewing their recyclability claims to ensure they remain accurate and reflect current labeling guidance.
Morris Packaging is helping companies use this additional time to better understand their packaging and prepare for the foreseeable changes.
If your packaging uses a How2Recycle label, you may already be seeing changes to its appearance.
How2Recycle provides standardized labeling that helps consumers understand how to properly dispose of different packaging components. As recycling regulations and consumer expectations change, the organization has introduced a redesigned labeling system known as the Pro Label.
How2Recycle identifies California SB 343 as one of the factors behind this redesign, with one of the most noticeable changes involving the removal of the chasing arrows symbol that many people associate with recycling.
Under the updated How2Recycle labeling approach, chasing arrows are reserved for the Widely Recyclable designation. Other labels use different visual elements to communicate the appropriate recycling instructions.
This distinction matters because the traditional chasing arrows symbol can suggest that a package is recyclable, even when its available recycling options are limited.
The updated labels are intended to communicate those differences more clearly.
For brands, however, receiving approval for a How2Recycle label does not automatically guarantee compliance with SB 343 or other applicable laws. Packaging claims still need to be evaluated against relevant requirements.
Recycling labels should help consumers understand what to do with packaging after use.
When those instructions are unclear or misleading, consumers may place materials in collection streams that are not equipped to handle them. Clearer guidance can help reduce contamination and support the recovery of materials through appropriate recycling programs.
At the same time, labeling requirements need to account for how recycling systems operate and how they may evolve.
Penny Steinwagner, Morris Packaging's Director of Sustainability, works diligently to stay informed about the ever-evolving Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and labeling changes affecting customers. "As a member of the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA)," said Steinwagner. "Morris Packaging shares the association's support for truthful, scientifically substantiated recycling claims.” We also recognize the importance of consistent labeling requirements that reflect existing recycling pathways and allow recycling systems to continue evolving.
Our goal is to provide consumers with accurate information while supporting customers in choosing practical recycling solutions.
Even with the enforcement of SB 343 blocked, there are steps brands can take to prepare for changing recyclability requirements.
Review your existing packaging artwork. Review all recyclability-related statements and symbols on your packaging, and confirm that the final artwork reflects the applicable assessment and current labeling guidance.
Understand your packaging materials. Different flexible packaging structures may have different recycling pathways. Knowing how your packaging is constructed can help you evaluate the claims being made.
Stay current on How2Recycle guidance. If your packaging uses How2Recycle labels, familiarize yourself with the updated designs and any changes that may affect your artwork.
Involve your packaging partner early. If a label needs to change or you're evaluating a different packaging structure, discussing those decisions before artwork is finalized can help avoid unnecessary revisions later.
These steps can also help brands establish a clearer understanding of their packaging as other recyclability requirements continue to develop.
Recyclability assessments and labeling standards continue to evolve, and the changes underway today may influence future packaging decisions.
The updated How2Recycle labels are one example. While they provide clearer recycling instructions, receiving a How2Recycle label does not automatically mean that a package complies with all applicable regulations.
For brands selling products across multiple states, this distinction is especially important. A packaging label may communicate an available recycling pathway, but the claims still need to meet the requirements of the markets where the product is sold.
Understanding these differences can help brands make more informed decisions about their packaging and avoid overlooking potential labeling concerns.
At Morris Packaging, we believe recyclability claims should accurately reflect the packaging they're printed on. That's why we have proactively updated our How2Recycle labels to reflect the redesigned labeling system, including removing chasing arrows from applicable labels.
We've taken these steps even while SB 343 remains in litigation because we want to help customers communicate recycling instructions accurately, using current How2Recycle guidance and applicable packaging assessment.
Our team stays informed about changing packaging requirements and works with customers to understand how those developments may affect their packaging. Whether you're reviewing existing artwork or considering changes to your packaging structure, we're here to help you evaluate your options.
Through our ongoing sustainability efforts, we continue to help customers navigate changing expectations around flexible packaging.
If you're unsure how SB 343 or the new How2Recycle labels may affect your packaging, connect with our team. We're here to help you prepare for the changes ahead.
Morris Packaging is headquartered in Bloomington, IL, with production facilities in Plymouth, MN, Jefferson City, MO, and its newest expansion in Lebanon, KY. Morris continues to advance sustainability through recycled-content initiatives, waste reduction, resource efficiency, and collaboration with customers and industry partners.