New Labeling Laws in Texas: What Food Manufacturers Need to Know

Significant changes are coming to food packaging laws, and EMP Labels is here to help manufacturers prepare.

In June 2025, Texas passed Senate Bill 25, which requires warning labels on packaged foods that contain any of 44 specified additives. This regulation begins in 2027 and affects a wide range of food and beverage brands selling into Texas. Other states including California, West Virginia, and Arkansas are also introducing their own restrictions. If your products are distributed nationally, now is the time to take action.

As a trusted label supplier, EMP Labels partners with food manufacturers to navigate new compliance requirements. From design updates to full production, we help you stay ahead.

What the Texas Law Requires
Under Senate Bill 25, any packaged food sold or offered for sale in Texas that contains one or more of the targeted additives must display a warning label. This means the law applies regardless of where the product is manufactured.

The required statement indicates that the ingredient is not recommended for human consumption based on international health advisories.

Some of the affected additives include:

• Red 40
• Yellow 5
• Titanium dioxide
• Partially hydrogenated oils

​This requirement applies only to packaged food products, not food prepared on-site. Though enforcement begins in 2027, it is essential to plan your label updates well in advance.

What Other States Are Doing
Texas may be leading the way in warning label requirements, but other states are also taking action:

California

• Banning four additives including Red Dye No. 3 by 2027
• Limits on synthetic dyes in public school meals already in effect

West Virginia

• Banned seven artificial dyes from food production and sales beginning in 2025

Arkansas

• Passed a limited ban on specific additives used in food manufacturing

More than 30 other states have introduced similar legislation, making it clear that the push for cleaner labels and transparent packaging is gaining momentum.

What This Means for Food Packaging
Food manufacturers should expect increasing pressure to adjust labeling based on where products are sold. These changes could require:

• Ingredient list audits
• Label redesigns to meet new warning requirements
• Modular packaging strategies to accommodate different state laws
• Updated printing and production schedules

Staying ahead of these requirements helps you avoid compliance issues and maintain shelf space in key markets.

How EMP Labels Can Help
EMP Labels is ready to support your transition with solutions tailored to your operations.

In-House Graphics Support
Our design team will update your packaging with the required warning statements and formatting at no added cost.

Full-Scale Label Production
Our production facility includes five flexographic presses and a digital press. Whether you need small test runs or full product line updates, we can handle the job.

Durable, High-Quality Materials
We offer a range of face stocks, adhesives, and finishes designed to meet the performance needs of refrigerated, frozen, or shelf-stable foods.

Scalable Labeling Solutions
Choose from hundreds of die shapes and sizes, or let us help you add secondary warning labels to your existing packaging.

Start Early to Stay Compliant
Waiting too long to update packaging could lead to costly delays or limited product availability in key states. EMP Labels can help you get started now, so your products remain compliant, shelf-ready, and consumer-friendly.
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Let us help you take the guesswork out of label changes. Contact EMP Labels today to schedule a packaging review and begin your compliance plan.
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