California's packaging landscape is changing, and businesses selling packaged products in the state should be paying attention.
California's Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act, commonly known as SB 54, establishes an extended producer responsibility program covering packaging and single-use plastic food service ware. Permanent regulations implementing the program became effective May 1, 2026.
For manufacturers, food processors, distributors and brands, this means packaging decisions increasingly need to account for more than price and appearance.
What Does SB 54 Require?
California has established ambitious statewide targets leading toward 2032, including a 25% reduction in single-use plastic covered material and requirements designed to make covered packaging recyclable or compostable. The state also targets a 65% recycling rate for plastic covered material by 2032.
The specific obligations of an individual business depend on whether it qualifies as a producer and whether its packaging is considered covered material.
Why Businesses Should Act Now
2032 might sound far away, but packaging programs rarely change overnight.
Companies may need time to:
- Evaluate existing packaging
- Test alternative materials
- Reduce unnecessary packaging
- Lightweight existing materials
- Modify packaging equipment
- Work with suppliers
- Understand reporting responsibilities
Waiting until deadlines approach can significantly reduce your options.
Packaging Efficiency Matters More Than Ever
Sustainability doesn't necessarily mean abandoning plastic entirely.
One important strategy is reducing the amount of material required to package each product.
For example, businesses may be able to evaluate thinner films, optimized package dimensions or equipment settings that reduce film consumption while maintaining package integrity.
Don't Ignore Equipment Compatibility
Changing packaging material without considering machinery can create sealing problems, downtime and inconsistent packages.
Before changing materials, test them using actual production conditions.
How Packaging Made Easy Can Help
Packaging Made Easy works with businesses to evaluate packaging materials and equipment as part of an overall packaging strategy.
As regulations and customer expectations evolve, the objective should be straightforward: use the right amount of packaging to protect the product while maintaining operational efficiency.
