OPRL Position Statements

The OPRL Takeback Scheme Protocol sets out the criteria that packaging must meet in order to be classed as “recyclable” under a takeback system and carry a specialist label. This label tells the consumer to recycle the item through the appropriate recycling point, whilst reminding them not to recycle at home. It has been developed to align with ISO 14021, which governs environmental claims such as recyclability. This ensures that any such claims are credible, verifiable, and based on robust infrastructure.

The protocol exists to help brands and retailers develop schemes that genuinely support recycling beyond kerbside collection. As not all materials are currently captured by the local authority kerbside collection systems, takeback schemes offer an essential route to increase recycling rates and reduce environmental impact. However, for a scheme to be credible, it must be widely accessible to the public, inclusive of multiple brands and products, free for users, and fully transparent in how the collected materials are handled and recycled.

By setting a clear and auditable framework, the protocol ensures that takeback schemes are not only effective in practice but also trusted by consumers and regulators. This safeguards the integrity of the OPRL “Recycle” label and supports the transition to a more circular economy.

To find out exactly what’s required for your scheme to qualify, download the full Takeback Scheme Protocol here.

The presence of food residue on fibre packaging has always been included in OPRL labelling rules. Where traces of food cannot be easily removed, for example with baked on food, the packaging format must be labelled “Do Not Recycle.”

All fibre-based packaging traded in the UK must comply with the European Standard EN643:2014, which specifies that food waste is prohibited in paper for recycling. The supplementary guidance to this standard provides further clarification and specifies that only stains and traces of food can be tolerated in paper for recycling.

Acceptable examples include minimal grease stains on pizza boxes and butter wraps, or loose traces such as breadcrumbs, sugar, salt, flour, or other dry food remnants in emptied boxes or bags.

However, food that is baked on, or that completely soaks or stains the packaging (even with a barrier layer), is not acceptable for reprocessing in a paper mill.

As communicated to members in May, there remain certain elements of the Recyclability Assessment Method (RAM) that OPRL has not adopted, as these do not fully align with existing industry guidance. Additionally, PackUK has recently confirmed that the RAM Technical Advisory Committee will review the exclusions from Version 1.1 of the RAM, which includes how product residue is assessed.

While we wait for information on this review, and to maintain consistency with current standards and guidance, OPRL will therefore continue to classify fibre-based packaging with food residue as unrecyclable.

A Recycle label may be permitted for trays with peelable layers; however, members can get in touch with us to discuss the details. Please note you’ll need to be logged into our Member Hub to access these links. Not yet a member? You can find out more about membership here.