Major Changes Coming to How2Recycle Labels: What Your Business Needs to Know
Jul. 3, 2025
If your packaging uses How2Recycle Labels, significant changes are on the way that will impact your operations. Here's what you need to know about the transition to the new How2Recycle Pro Labels.
What's Changing with How2Recycle Labels?
The Legacy How2Recycle Labels are being phased out. In their place, How2Recycle Pro Labels are being introduced to:
Improve label clarity and consumer understanding
Align with stricter recyclability legislation
Address evolving state and federal compliance requirements
Backed by consumer research and tailored to meet laws like SB 343 in California, these new labels are not just the latest regulatory necessity, they are a strategic response to evolving legislation and consumer expectations.
Transition period: Legacy & Pro Labels both accepted
Sept 2025
Pro Labels available in Member Platform
Feb 1, 2026
Legacy Labels no longer accepted
Oct 4, 2026
SB 343 compliance deadline for California packaging
What's in the New Guidelines?
How2Recycle’s July 2025 update is expected to include:
Recyclability classification updates
SB 343 clarification and enforcement details
Priority product categories for immediate transition
Guidance on optional upgrades like How2Recycle Plus (QR codes)
As your packaging partner, the team at Associated Labels and Packaging stay current with every bi-annual release to help you meet these standards without stress or guesswork.
Why These Label Changes Matter for Your Business
Regulatory Compliance: Pro Labels meet SB 343 and anticipated national standards
Consumer Trust: With 84% U.S. consumer recognition, How2Recycle is a known and trusted label
Future-Proofing: These changes anticipate growing global scrutiny on recyclability claims
What Should You Do Now?
Audit Your Packaging Identify all SKUs using current How2Recycle Legacy Labels
Prioritize High-Risk Products Focus first on products sold in California or undergoing packaging redesigns
Explore Upgrades Consider How2Recycle Plus for enhanced consumer communication via QR codes
Associated Labels and Packaging Can Help You Transition Smoothly
As a trusted partner to brands navigating ever changing packaging regulations, Associated Labels and Packaging offers ongoing support for regulatory compliance and can offer assistance with strategic planning of your Pro Label rollout.
Contact us to schedule a compliance review and keep your packaging compliant, clear, and consumer-friendly.
What Our Clients Say
Businesses across diverse industries choose Associated Labels & Packaging to expand their product lines.
Ross Chocolates
Associated Labels has helped guide us every step of the way through the packaging design process.
Lally Farms
The team at Associated Labels understand the seasonal nature of our business and always make sure our needs are met for short lead time orders.
Malcolm Designs
Pardon the pun… but I’m sticking with Associated Labels! Everybody shows the utmost professionalism (shout out to Michael) as they stand behind the superior products they produce. Associated Labels ROCK!
Lyla
They are meticulous about details and the labels are of amazing quality.
Grandpa J’s Seasoning Inc
When ordering labels it has always been breeze with Associated Labels and Packaging! Very precise and on time!
Mike
Responsive, timely delivery, competitive pricing and knowledgeable. They go out of their way to find solutions to unusual requests.
Angelique
The sales support is amazing, these guys always go the extra mile to produce a quality product with short turn times.
