Packaging labeling: mandatory since January 1, 2023

From January 1, 2023, the mandatory packaging labeling enters into force, affecting not only producers but also distributors, importers, and retailers of products.

Packaging labeling: mandatory since January 1, 2023. Environmental labeling consists of applying a specific label to all packaging placed on the Italian market, to facilitate its collection, reuse, recovery, and recycling, while providing information both on the packaging composition and on its correct disposal by the consumer.   Find out more: “The environmental label in packaging: what the Italian regulation says”  

How the new packaging labeling works

The new regulation on packaging labels was introduced to ensure a uniform level of consumer protection throughout the European Union (EU). Indeed, product labeling will provide consumers with more precise and comprehensive product information, ensuring greater transparency in the supply chain. Therefore, with the onset of the new year, from January 1, 2023, it is mandatory for all companies to label their products in compliance with the new European regulation on product safety.   Specifically, the decree establishes that «all packaging must be appropriately labeled, according to the procedures established by the applicable UNI standards, to facilitate the collection, reuse, recovery, and recycling of packaging, as well as to give correct information to consumers regarding the final destination of packaging».   The guidelines were adopted by Ministerial Decree no. 360 of September 28, 2022. From January 1, 2023, however, it is no longer possible to place packaging on the market that lacks environmental labeling. Conversely, packaging already on the market or labeled as of January 1, 2023, can be marketed until stocks are exhausted. Failure to comply with the eco-label will be penalized with a fine ranging from 5,000 to 25,000 euros. This document is the result of the work carried out by the Ministry together with the technical group of CONAI, the National Packaging Consortium.  

What the new packaging regulation covers

The new labeling requirement stipulates that all packaging on the national market must feature the alphanumeric code identifying the material used. If intended for household use, packaging must indicate, in addition to the type of material it consists of, the instructions for correctly disposing of it in separate waste collection. Specifically, the mandatory information to be applied on packaging aimed at the final consumer is as follows:

• the alphanumeric coding of the material;
• collection instructions, along with an invitation to check the provisions of one's own Municipality.

To these, further optional but highly recommended information can be added:

• the type of packaging: bottle, flask, tray, label, and so forth;
• information to improve collection quality, such as flattening or rinsing the package before throwing it away, or removing the label.

  Regarding multi-component packaging, components that cannot be separated manually must be distinguished from those that can be separated, indicating for each the composition material code and separate collection methods. For packaging related to the industrial or commercial sector, such as for display, logistics, and transport activities, packaging may omit collection information but must mandatorily report the alphanumeric code of the material in use. Producers and distributors can also choose to communicate information regarding product composition and disposal via digital media, for example:

• scanning QR codes;
• via apps;
• visiting websites.

  Furthermore, each label has its own color: blue for paper, brown for organic waste, yellow for plastic, turquoise for metals, green for glass, and gray for unsorted waste.   In conclusion, product labeling must be clear, legible, and understandable to all consumers. The mandatory labeling of products represents an important step in consumer protection throughout the UE, as it will provide consumers with clear and precise information about the products they purchase, ensuring greater transparency in the supply chain and protecting their health and safety.   Read also: “Recycled and recyclable paper: the differences between the two processes”