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5 12 26 California SB 343 What It Means for Packaging and Labels

California SB 343: What It Means for Packaging and Labels

  | Daniele Smith

Reading Time: 4 minutes

California’s SB 343 law is changing the way brands talk about recyclability on packaging.

If your product is sold in California, this matters to you.

The law focuses on one main issue:
Packaging should only be labeled as recyclable if it is actually recycled in California.

That includes:

  • The chasing arrows symbol
  • “Recyclable” claims
  • Messaging that suggests packaging can be recycled

The deadline is October 2026, which means brands should start reviewing packaging now.

What Is SB 343?

SB 343 is a California law focused on reducing misleading recycling claims on packaging.

Under the law, packaging must meet California’s recycling requirements before it can be marketed as recyclable.

In simple terms:

If the packaging does not get recycled in California, brands may not be allowed to say that it does.

Why Labels Matter

Many people think this law only affects the bottle or package itself.

But labels matter too.

Even if a container is recyclable, the label could create problems during the recycling process.

Things like:

  • Label materials
  • Adhesives
  • Ink coverage
  • Shrink sleeves

can all affect recyclability.

Because of this, many brands may need to review both packaging and label constructions before the deadline.

Packaging Types Most Likely to Be Affected

Some packaging formats may face more challenges under SB 343.

These include:

  • Flexible films and pouches
  • Multi-layer packaging
  • Full-body shrink sleeves
  • Pressure-sensitive labels
  • Dark plastics that are hard to sort

Food, beverage, personal care, household, and nutraceutical brands may be especially impacted.

What Brands Should Do Now

The October 2026 deadline may seem far away, but packaging changes take time.

Brands should start:

  • Reviewing recycling claims
  • Checking label materials and adhesives
  • Looking at current packaging designs
  • Planning for artwork updates if needed

Starting early can help avoid rushed changes later.

How Inovar Can Help

We help brands evaluate packaging and label solutions with recyclability in mind.

Our team can help customers:

  • Review current label constructions
  • Identify possible recyclability concerns
  • Explore APR-recognized material options
  • Evaluate shrink sleeve and pressure-sensitive label solutions

Join Our Upcoming Webinar

To help brands better understand SB 343 and how it may impact packaging and labels, Inovar will be hosting a live educational webinar:

SB 343 Explained: What’s Allowed, What’s Not, and What to Do Next
June 9, 2026 at 1:00 PM EST

The webinar will cover:

  • What the law means in simple terms
  • Which packaging types may be most affected
  • What brands should be reviewing now
  • Common recyclability challenges with labels and packaging

Register for the Webinar

We also offer APR Design® for Recyclability Recognized label constructions for select PET applications.

SB 343 is part of a larger shift in packaging and sustainability regulations.

For many brands, labels will play an important role in future recyclability claims.

Reviewing packaging now can help companies prepare for upcoming changes and reduce future compliance risks.

To learn more about sustainable packaging and label solutions, contact us today.
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