California’s Senate Bill 343 (SB 343) fundamentally changes how brands can talk about sustainability. This simplified guide outlines what you need to know to stay compliant.
When is SB 343 effective?
The law officially takes effect on October 4, 2026.
- The rule: All products and packaging manufactured on or after October 4, 2026, must fully comply with the new labeling restrictions.
- The exemption: Products manufactured before this date are exempt from these requirements.
How does it affect my brand?
Your level of impact depends entirely on your current packaging design:
- No symbols, no impact: If you do not claim recyclability and do not use any recycling symbols (like the Chasing Arrows), this law does not directly affect your brand.
- Active claims, high impact: If you currently claim recyclability or use recycling symbols, you must act. The bill requires you to legally substantiate your claims and maintain a written record proving compliance.
How do I know if my packaging is truly recyclable?
You cannot just assume your packaging is recyclable because of the material type. Under CalRecycle guidelines, recyclability is strictly evaluated:
- Approved materials: Broadly speaking, the bottles and jars deemed recyclable are PET (#1), HDPE (#2), and high-purity glass.
- Disqualifiers: The presence of PFAS, heavy metals, or certain specialized coatings can instantly disqualify otherwise recyclable materials.
The Hidden Trap: What about the labels?
A compliant bottle or jar can still fail California’s standards if it uses the wrong label.
- Adhesive types: Certain glues do not release properly during the recycling wash process, ruining the batch.
- Material mismatches: Even standard paper labels can contaminate the plastic recycling stream.
How can I be sure my brand is compliant?
Do not guess when it comes to regulatory compliance. Reach out to your packaging and label vendors immediately to request official compliance documentation and material data sheets.