2026 has already seen multiple new packaging laws related to plastic bags, bottles and more. July 1 is the start date for a few more. These are some laws and regulatory updates for packaging stakeholders to know:
California standardizing food date labels
AB 660, which could reduce food waste, passed in 2024. As of July 1, it disallows labeling with “sell by” language. The permitted labeling for quality dates is “BEST if Used by” or “BEST if Used or Frozen by.” For safety dates, it’s “USE by” or “USE by or Freeze by.”
EPS food containers no longer allowed in Virginia
All food vendors in Virginia — including restaurants, stores, schools and food trucks — will have to comply with an expanded polystyrene container ban come July 1. This is a phase-two expansion from one year ago, when the ban applied to vendors with 20 or more Virginia locations. The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality encourages reusable, paper, metal or PET alternatives. Localities may grant exemptions to vendors if they can demonstrate undue economic hardship from the policy.
PFAS crackdowns
Connecticut has largely outlawed intentionally added PFAS in numerous product categories, including clothing, cookware or cleaning products. But in cases where a notification is sent to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, a PFAS-containing product must be labeled accordingly. The following labeling language is approved: Contains PFAS; Made with PFAS; Made with PFAS chemicals; Made with intentionally added PFAS; This product contains PFAS; and Contains PFAS in Internal Components.
Washington EPR deadline
July 1 is the deadline for producers to register with a producer responsibility organization in Washington. Washington designated Circular Action Alliance as its PRO.
