Hunton Retail Law Resource

Starting in June 2027, California’s “compostable” labeling standard will prohibit certain products from being labeled as “compostable,” even if they are ASTM-certified. This is particularly important considering California’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) law, which will require covered products to be either recyclable or compostable by 2032. Regulated entities should understand the contours of California’s “compostable” standard and begin developing internal mechanisms to ensure compliance and avoid unexpected production pauses or enforcement actions.

We previously reported that in December 2025, a food and beverage industry coalition challenged a Texas law requiring food and beverage manufacturers doing business in the state to affix warning labels on products containing any of 44 specific artificial colors, chemicals, and additives.