The food and beverage industry is facing numerous challenges in the current climate. These challenges range from staffing issues to rising energy costs, putting pressure on companies to maintain a consistent supply while remaining cost-effective. Additionally, the industry is also dealing with the implementation of new packaging legislation, which is the most significant change in the past 25 years.
Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging (EPR) reporting has already begun, with the first submissions due in October. This new legislation not only increases reporting requirements but also introduces changes to labeling regulations. However, many manufacturers are still uncertain about the details and associated costs of EPR.
Under EPR, the definition of packaging producer has changed, shifting the cost burden to brands and importers. However, other businesses are still required to report the volume of packaging placed on the market, categorized by nation. These obligated businesses need to pay attention to new labeling requirements, as well as updated demands for data and submission timelines. To determine if your business falls under the obligation, you can visit: here.
Starting from 2026, all rigid packaging will use the OPRL label, and the scheme will include film packaging the following year. The OPRL label is the only existing recycling label in the market that complies with EPR rules. Research by OPRL indicates that consumers look for recycling information on packaging just before disposing of it. The switch to a standardized labeling system aims to reduce confusion and encourage recycling.
This transition aligns with regulations for consistent recycling practices across different regions. While councils may collect packaging materials in different ways, they will collect the same materials nationwide. This consistency allows designers to make smarter choices, creating packaging products that can be recycled across the entire country.
Specifically, with regards to labeling under EPR, an OPRL survey conducted among packaging producers revealed that 71% of them were aware of the need to label consumer packaging with recycling information. However, only 57% felt confident about the labeling process.
Currently, the OPRL label meets EPR requirements and serves as a binary label with recyclable/not recyclable messages and the recycling swoosh. OPRL possesses data on the number of local authorities across the UK that collect, sort, and recycle individual packaging materials, as well as information on end markets. Companies that subscribe to the OPRL label undergo an assessment to determine the recyclability of their products.
From 2026, all packaging producers will be required to use the OPRL label. Although OPRL will continue to offer advice to its members, businesses will be allowed to use the label independently if they are confident in the recyclability claims. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the recyclability of packaging before making any labeling changes.
Although 2023 may seem far off, planning for label changes across multiple product ranges is essential. According to OPRL’s 2023 consumer insight research, recycling remains important to consumers despite the cost of living crisis. Consumer understanding of recycling has also improved since OPRL began conducting surveys in 2018.
Consumers often struggle to determine whether a packaging item is recyclable, leading to guesses or decisions not to recycle. These issues will be addressed by the new EPR measures. Over half of the survey respondents (58%) indicated that they look for recycling information before disposing of packaging, and 51% seek recycling information directly from packaging. Therefore, clear and consistent labeling directly on packaging is an effective way to eliminate confusion.
Ultimately, the goal of the EPR legislation is to build more circular packaging markets, as recycling plays a crucial role in addressing carbon emissions and reducing the risk of unregulated disposal and pollution of oceans. While EPR brings greater demands for obligated businesses, the impact will be felt throughout the supply chain. Collaboratively working towards standardized design, clear labeling, and consistent collections will help meet targets and build a more resilient future.
