The 2025 Sustainable Food Packaging Guide for US Packers
Flexible packaging for produce, steamables, frozen, pet, and beyond.
If you’re in the food packing industry, it’s likely that sustainability is part of your strategy for 2025. With retailer requirements and new legislation, the pressure is on to adapt packaging. Meeting these regulations without compromising productivity or your bottom line is easier said than done.
Many materials meant to address these challenges don’t translate to production. You might find yourself asking: “Are there viable sustainable packaging solutions that meet the 2025 retailer requirements and regulations?”
To help you navigate the changing packaging landscape and find materials that work for your commodity, we created this clear, practical guide.
In This Guide:
Part 1
2025 US Retailer Guidelines and EPR Legislation
Part 2
Available Materials — What’s Available vs. What’s Viable
Part 3
Staying Ahead of the Curve with Strategic Partnerships
Part 1
2025 Retailer Guidelines and EPR Legislation
US Retailer Requirements
Retailers are the primary drivers of sustainability in packaging today. They set guidelines that packers must meet to maintain a spot on the shelves. These guidelines are focused on reducing environmental impact, which means incorporating higher percentages of recycled content and reducing the use of virgin plastics.
Most Major Retailers
☑ 20% PCR content
☑ 15% Reduction in virgin plastic
☑ Must be able to tell the end of life story
Walmart
☑ 100% recyclable or industrially compostable packaging by 2025