New standard sets guidelines for safely washing reusable packaging

As companies and consumers look for alternatives to single-use plastics, reusable container systems have grown in popularity. The CSA Group and PR3 publish a new standard with clear requirements on how reusable containers must be washed and handled.

RES-002:25/CSA R303:25, Reusable Packaging System Design Standard: Container Washing, Inspection, and Packing for Distribution is the first in a series of six binational standards designed to provide support to large-scale, interoperable reuse systems. The remaining five standards are anticipated to be finalized by the end of 2026.

Reuse systems add new steps to the food supply chain that are not yet accounted for in existing food safety programs and food codes. This new standard helps fill those gaps. This binational standard is recognized by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), provides clear requirements for reusable container washing facilities to help ensure safe and consistent practices across reuse systems.

“This standard marks an important step toward building safe, scalable, and consistent reuse systems,” said Michael Leering, director of environment and business excellence at CSA Group. “By setting clear expectations for container washing, sanitizing, inspection, and packing, it provides a strong foundation for businesses and communities looking to transition away from single-use packaging.”