Food and drink producers are being given a clearer route to influence how the UK assesses packaging recyclability, following changes to the process for updating the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM).

PackUK and the UK Packaging Producer Responsibility Organisation (UK Packaging PRO) announced the new approach on 22 October 2026, responding to industry calls for greater transparency, more predictable changes and additional time to prepare for revisions.

For manufacturers placing packaged products on the UK market, the methodology has practical implications. Under Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging, recyclability assessments determine whether packaging receives a red, amber or green rating. These ratings influence the disposal fees producers pay, creating a financial incentive to use packaging materials and formats that are more readily recyclable.

The new process is intended to bring industry experience closer to decisions about how those assessments are made.

A more targeted approach to updates

Previously, RAM updates were overseen by PackUK, with input from the RAM Technical Advisory Committee. Under the revised approach, UK Packaging PRO will take on a greater role in coordinating, reviewing and prioritising proposed changes.

As the producer-led organisation responsible for supporting the delivery of packaging EPR, it will provide a structured route for businesses and other stakeholders across the packaging value chain to submit evidence and request changes.

Proposals will be assessed on their supporting evidence and the strength of the case for change. Where further investigation is justified, UK Packaging PRO will work with relevant experts to develop recommendations for PackUK, which retains overall responsibility for overseeing and publishing the methodology.

The intention is to move towards more targeted updates, rather than significant annual revisions, giving producers greater visibility of what might change and why.

For food and drink manufacturers, this could make it easier to plan packaging development and investment. Changes to material specifications, packaging components or design can involve trials, supplier discussions, production-line adjustments and validation. Greater advance visibility of potential changes should help businesses factor recyclability requirements into those decisions.

What happens next?

RAM 2028 will be a transition year as PackUK and UK Packaging PRO develop and refine the new process.

The two organisations intend to concentrate on a smaller number of priority areas, including issues already raised by producers. One example is guidance on take-back schemes.

They are also reviewing existing guidance relating to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and direct printing on polypropylene (PP), following feedback from producers.

These areas are relevant to manufacturers assessing packaging materials, printing methods and the practical routes available for recycling packaging after use.

The emphasis on a smaller number of priorities is intended to provide greater stability while allowing the methodology to respond to new evidence, technological developments and changes in recycling infrastructure.

An opportunity for manufacturers to influence the rules

Producers and other stakeholders across the packaging value chain wishing to influence RAM 2028 have until 31 December 2026 to submit change requests and supporting evidence to UK Packaging PRO.

Submissions will be reviewed to establish whether there is a case for change. The organisation may request additional information or arrange discussions to explore particular issues before developing recommendations for PackUK.

For manufacturers, participation provides an opportunity to highlight where current assessment rules do not adequately reflect the practical realities of packaging manufacture, use, collection or recycling.

This could include technical evidence relating to material combinations, printing and labelling, packaging components, recycling processes or the availability of suitable collection and take-back infrastructure.

Importantly, submitting a proposal does not guarantee a change. Requests will be prioritised according to the strength of the evidence and their potential benefits across the packaging system.

What producers should do now

The announcement does not introduce an immediate change to existing recyclability assessment requirements. Producers should continue using the applicable RAM version for the relevant reporting year.

RAM 1.1 applies to the 2026 reporting year, while RAM 2027 covers packaging supplied during 1 January to 31 December 2027.

However, manufacturers should consider whether their current packaging assessments highlight areas where the methodology needs clarification or improvement.

Businesses with relevant technical data or practical experience should consider submitting evidence before the December deadline. This is particularly important for manufacturers working with complex packaging structures or formats where recyclability assessments can influence material choices and packaging costs.

The longer-term objective is to make RAM more predictable and responsive to evidence from across the industry. For food and drink producers, the opportunity is to have a more direct role in shaping the assessment framework that influences packaging decisions and the cost of placing products on the UK market.

Further information: UK Packaging PRO is accepting evidence submissions for RAM 2028 until 31 December 2026. Guidance and the submission process are available at https://ukpackagingpro.org.uk/ram-evidence.