Packaging EPR and recycling labels for supplement brands

Who's affected

• Businesses with turnover over £1 million that handle more than 25 tonnes of packaging a year must register and report packaging data.
• Those over £2 million and 50 tonnes must also pay EPR fees, based on the packaging they place on the market.
• The brand owner is usually the obligated producer for its own packaging, even when a contract manufacturer packs it.

Fees reward recyclable packaging

Fees vary by material and are moving towards rewarding packaging that's easy to recycle. Mono-material pouches, recyclable tubs and less packaging can all lower your costs.

Plastic Packaging Tax

A separate tax applies to plastic packaging with less than 30% recycled content, for businesses that make or import 10 tonnes or more a year. Recycled-content tubs and bottles can avoid it.

Recycling labels

Mandatory “recycle” or “do not recycle” labels were planned, first for 2026 and then for April 2027, but the government has since dropped the requirement for now. On-pack recycling labels such as OPRL's remain voluntary. Many brands still use them, and any recycling claim you make must be accurate.

What to do

• Check whether you meet the reporting and fee thresholds.
• Keep weights and materials for every pack component: tub, lid, seal, label, scoop, carton.
• Choose recyclable formats where you can.

Rules and dates here are still changing, so check the latest government guidance before you make decisions.