H-E-B joins How2Recycle program to simplify and ramp-up recycling efforts in Texas
H-E-B joins How2Recycle program to simplify and ramp-up recycling efforts in Texas
H-E-B joins How2Recycle program to simplify and ramp-up recycling efforts in Texas
In a major step toward creating a more sustainable Texas, H-E-B has joined the How2Recycle program to help strengthen and reinforce recycling efforts across the Lone Star State.
 
As part of the How2Recycle program, H-E-B will help customers by taking the guesswork out of recycling, joining industry leaders in a new straightforward labeling system that reduces confusion about how, what, and where to recycle. The clear, easy-to-read labels let customers know if a product’s packaging can be recycled, which parts are recyclable, and importantly, how to prepare material to increase recycling effectiveness. Through the program, H-E-B will be able to track and measure its recyclable packaging, promote customer recycling efforts, and help improve availability and quality of recyclable materials.
 
The How2Recycle labels are already on hundreds of H-E-B branded products, including H-E-B, Hill Country Fare, H-E-B Select Ingredients, H-E-B Organics, and Central Market. By year’s end, the labels will be on more than 1,500 H-E-B branded items, in addition to the national brands on shelves carrying the How2Recycle labels.
 
H-E-B also will launch an educational effort that includes sharing recycling tips via social media and in-store signage. Additionally, H-E-B will update plastic recycling bins already available at stores, making them more visible, compelling and easy to read to encourage customers to bring in plastics that cannot be recycled at home. Along with strengthening its recycling efforts, H-E-B continues to find ways to reduce plastic in product packaging and other uses. Last year, H-E-B eliminated plastic straws from H-E-B restaurants and switched to biodegradable straws. 
 

 

“At H-E-B, it’s important we do our part to be good stewards of our environment, and through this effort we’re proud to help our customers increase their recycling efforts at home. We know our customers love the natural beauty of Texas, and together we can work to protect it for generations to come.”

– Bonny Akers, Director of H-E-B Brand Products

In celebration of Earth Day, H-E-B will give away 200,000 reusable bags this year to help reduce plastic waste. On April 22, beginning at 1 p.m. customers who visit any H-E-B in Texas can get their complimentary Earth Day bag while supplies last. The bag proudly designed by Julia Rojas, a 12-year H-E-B Partner from San Antonio, is made from recycled plastic bottles. Since 2008, H-E-B has given customers more than two million reusable bags in commemoration of Earth Day.

 

Because H-E-B Partners (employees) are committed to taking their own steps to beautify Texas, many have marked Earth Day by volunteering at outdoor events, tree plantings and community cleanups.

 

To invite our customers to join in our sustainability efforts, H-E-B launched its annual donation campaign to benefit EarthShare of Texas, a nonprofit that supports more than 70 respected conservation groups. Through May 25, customers can donate $1, $3 or $5 online at heb.com or in store at checkout. All proceeds collected from the effort will benefit the nonprofit organization. Over the past decade, H-E-B shoppers have donated more than $1 million through the campaign.

Since 2012, H-E-B has contributed more than $13 million to over 500 environmental organizations in land and water conservation, habitat and coastal preservation, and community cleanups. This includes giving more than $2 million in grants to organizations such as Keep Texas Beautiful, Texas Conservation Fund, and the Nature Conservancy of Texas.  

H-E-B is regularly recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability. In 2020, H-E-B recycled more than 527 million pounds of cardboard, plastics, office paper, food waste, metal, and truck tires. Among its endeavor to minimize waste in 2020, H-E-B recycled 45 million pounds of food into animal feed and compost and recycled 17 million pounds of plastic. Last year, H-E-B’s recycling efforts saved the equivalent of 10 million trees, one million barrels of oil, and enough energy to power more than 68,000 homes for an entire year.

 

More about H-E-B’s sustainability efforts can be found at H-E-B NEWSROOM and on heb.com/sustainability.

Awards & Honors

H-E-B is proud to be recognized as a business that is committed to the future of Texas. 

H-E-B recognized by Texan Nature as a Texan Company committed to conservation

H-E-B joins EPA’s innovative GreenChill Partnership

Two-time Texas Environmental Excellence Award for Innovative Operations & Management

Photo Gallery


In a major step toward creating a more sustainable Texas, H-E-B has joined the How2Recycle program to help strengthen and reinforce recycling efforts across the Lone Star State.

 

As part of the How2Recycle program, H-E-B will help customers by taking the guesswork out of recycling, joining industry leaders in a new straightforward labeling system that demystifies how, what, and where to recycle. The clear, easy-to-read labels let customers know if a product’s packaging can be recycled, which parts are recyclable, and importantly, how to prepare material to increase recycling effectiveness. Through the program, H-E-B will be able to track and measure its recyclable packaging, promote customer recycling efforts, and help improve availability and quality of recyclable materials.

The How2Recycle labels are already on hundreds of H-E-B branded products, including H-E-B, Hill Country Fare, H-E-B Select Ingredients, H-E-B Organics, and Central Market. By year’s end, the labels will be on more than 1,500 H-E-B branded items, in addition to the national brands on shelves carrying the How2Recycle labels.

H-E-B also will launch an educational effort that includes sharing recycling tips via social media and on in-store signage. Additionally, H-E-B will update plastic recycling bins already available at stores, making them more visible, compelling and easy to read to encourage customers to bring in plastics that cannot be recycled at home.

“At H-E-B, it’s important we do our part to be good stewards of our environment, and through this effort we’re proud to help our customers increase their recycling efforts at home. We know our customers love the natural beauty of Texas, and together we can work to protect it for generations to come.”

– Bonny Akers, Director of H-E-B Brand Products

In celebration of Earth Day, H-E-B will give away 200,000 reusable bags this year to help reduce plastic waste. On April 22, beginning at 1 p.m. customers who visit any H-E-B in Texas can get their complimentary Earth Day bag while supplies last. The bag proudly designed by Julia Rojas, a 12-year H-E-B Partner from San Antonio, is made from recycled plastic bottles. Since 2008, H-E-B has given customers more than two million reusable bags in commemoration of Earth Day.

 

Because H-E-B Partners (employees) are committed to taking their own steps to beautify Texas, many have marked Earth Day by volunteering at outdoor events, tree plantings and community cleanups.

 

To invite our customers to join in our sustainability efforts, H-E-B launched its annual donation campaign to benefit EarthShare of Texas, a nonprofit that supports more than 70 respected conservation groups. Through May 25, customers can donate $1, $3 or $5 online at heb.com/donate or in store at checkout. All proceeds collected from the effort will benefit the nonprofit organization. Over the past decade, H-E-B shoppers have donated more than $1 million through the campaign.

Since 2012, H-E-B has contributed more than $13 million to over 500 environmental organizations in land and water conservation, habitat and coastal preservation, and community cleanups. This includes giving more than $2 million in grants to organizations such as Keep Texas Beautiful, Texas Conservation Fund, and the Nature Conservancy of Texas.  

H-E-B is regularly recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability. In 2020, H-E-B recycled more than 527 million pounds of cardboard, plastics, office paper, food waste, metal, and truck tires. Among its endeavor to minimize waste in 2020, H-E-B recycled 45 million pounds of food into animal feed and compost and recycled 17 million pounds of plastic. Last year, H-E-B’s recycling efforts saved the equivalent of 10 million trees, one million barrels of oil, and enough energy to power more than 68,000 homes for an entire year. 

 

More about H-E-B’s sustainability efforts can be found at H-E-B NEWSROOM and on heb.com/environment.

Awards & Honors

H-E-B is proud to be recognized as a business that is committed to the future of Texas.

H-E-B recognized by Texan Nature as a Texan Company committed to conservation

H-E-B joins EPA’s innovative GreenChill Partnership

Two-time Texas Environmental Excellence Award for Innovative Operations & Management

Photo Gallery 

About H-E-B

H-E-B, with sales of more than $50 billion, operates over 455 stores in Texas and Mexico. Known for its innovation and community service, H-E-B celebrates its 120th anniversary this year. Recognized for its fresh food, quality products, convenient services, and a commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability, H-E-B strives to provide the best customer experience and low prices. Based in San Antonio, H-E-B employs over 175,000 Partners in Texas and Mexico and serves millions of customers in more than 300 communities. For more information, visit heb.com and the H-E-B Newsroom.

About H-E-B

H-E-B, with sales of more than $50 billion, operates over 455 stores in Texas and Mexico. Known for its innovation and community service, H-E-B celebrates its 120th anniversary this year. Recognized for its fresh food, quality products, convenient services, and a commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability, H-E-B strives to provide the best customer experience and low prices. Based in San Antonio, H-E-B employs over 175,000 Partners in Texas and Mexico and serves millions of customers in more than 300 communities. For more information, visit heb.com and the H-E-B Newsroom.

Media Gallery
Third Place Winner $10,000

My Drink Bomb

Product: Cocktail Mixers

Website: mydrinkbomb.com

Founded by Houston entrepreneur Chloe Di Leo, My Drink Bomb is the original handcrafted cocktail bomb that turns any glass into a ready-to-sip celebration. Just drop one into sparkling water or spirits, no mixing required. Proudly made in Texas and woman-owned, each drink bomb is crafted with natural ingredients like dried fruit and edible flowers. Fun, fast, and just a little fancy, My Drink Bomb makes cocktail hour pop – no bartender required.

Third Place Winner $10,000

Spicytude

Product: Spices

Website: spicytude.com

Spiceytude’s story begins where traditions are passed down and flavors come alive — the kitchen. Specifically, the kitchen of Arpi Neravetla’s grandmother. With a deep-rooted love of South Indian cooking and a craving for the flavors of her childhood, Arpi’s dream is to make flavorful Indian cooking easy and accessible for everyone with curated spice kits, step-by-step recipes, and video instructions. No guesswork, just bold flavor. Founded in the quiet days of 2020, Spicytude crafts small-batch, thoughtfully sourced spice blends that bring bold, authentic flavors to home kitchens across the country.

Second Place Winner $15,000

Deli Spice

Product: Birria Spice Mix

Website: delispicesmix.com

Born from Sully Villareal’s dream to share real Mexican food with the world (no shortcuts) Deli Spice’s Birria Spice Mix is made with realdried chiles and toasted spices. It’s a 3-step recipe: just add meat, water, and the mix — no cooking skills required. Every blend is tested byfamilies and perfected by a Mexican mom in Texas to help people cook authentic birria in under 30 minutes with restaurant-level flavor and reviving the Villareal family’s memories with every bite.

First Place Winner $25,000

Tozi Super Foods

Product: Totopos (tortilla chips) and Tortillas

Website: tozifoods.com

Proudly Mexicana-founded and family-led, Tozi Superfoods blends heritage with health in every bite. The Mexican American food and beverage company is inspired by the Aztec goddess of health. Founded by two sisters and their mother, Tozi blends six generations of tradition from their family ranch in Jalisco, Mexico, with the power of indigenous superfoods like blue corn, nopal, and amaranth – once a sacred staple of the Aztecs complete plant-based protein, rich in fiber, antioxidants, and cultural history. From tortillas to aguas frescas, every product is clean, nutrient-rich, and rooted in heritage – with wellness at the heart of it all.

Grand Prize Winner $50,000

Oca Foods

Product: Peanut Butter Bites and Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Bites

Website: ocafoods.com

After spending several years in the U.S., Renato Raposo found himself missing one of his favorite childhood snacks, Pacoca, a beloved Brazilian peanut treat. His connection with the snack deepened after the passing of his father in 2022 – it was a snack they loved and shared together. Unable to find a clean and simple version of this nostalgic treat, he created Oca Foods. By June 2024, he left a tech career to pursue Oca full-time, transforming this craving into a mission to share a wholesome, meaningful snack with the world.

Tozi Super Foods Tortillas and Tortilla Chips

Austin

Proudly Mexicana-founded and family-led, Tozi Superfoods blends heritage with health in every bite. The Mexican American food company is inspired by the Aztec goddess of health, Toci. Founded by two sisters and their mother, Tozi blends six generations of tradition from their family ranch in Jalisco, Mexico, with the power of indigenous superfoods like blue corn and amaranth – once a sacred staple of the Aztecs and a complete plant-based protein, rich in fiber, antioxidants, and cultural history. From tortillas to totopos, every product is clean, seed oil free, gluten free, nutrient-rich, and rooted in heritage – with wellness at the heart of it all. Tozi truly is “where heritage meets health”. 

Spicytude Spices

Dallas

Spicytude’s story begins where traditions are passed down and flavors come alive, the kitchen. Specifically, the kitchen of Arpi’s  grandmother. With a deep-rooted love of South Indian cooking and a craving for the flavors of her childhood, Arpi’s dream is to make flavorful Indian cooking easy and accessible for everyone with curated spice kits, step-by-step recipes, and video instructions. No guesswork, just bold flavor. Founded in the quiet days of 2020, Spicytude crafts small-batch, thoughtfully sourced spice blends that bring bold, authentic Indian flavors to home kitchens across the country.

Rigo’s Dairy
Latin-Style Cheese
 

Bryan (Houston Region)

With four generations of cheesemaking behind them, Rigo’s Dairy is bringing traditional yet bold Venezuelan flavor to Texas tables. Based in Bryan, this family-run cheese plant  uses 100% cow’s milk and sticks to the same time-tested methods brought from their native Venezuela – no artificial flavors or shortcuts  – crafting authentic Latin-style cheeses that blend generations of tradition with the hard work and family values that define the Lone Star State. The result is a selection of cheeses that are fresh, rich, and full of flavor you can taste in every bite.

Oca Foods Peanut Butter

Austin (Central Texas Region)

After spending several years in the U.S., Renato Raposo found himself missing one of his favorite childhood snacks, Pacoca [pah-SOK-ah], a beloved Brazilian peanut treat. His connection with the snack deepened after the passing of his father in 2022 – it was a snack they loved and shared together. Unable to find a clean and simple version of this nostalgic treat, he created OCA Foods. By June 2024, he left a tech career to pursue OCA full-time, transforming this craving into a mission to share a wholesome, meaningful snack with the world.

Long Phung Food Products
Vietnamese Meat Products

Houston

For more than 35 years and two generations, Long Phung has been serving up bold, delicious bites of Vietnam – one pork roll at a time. This Houston-based, family-owned brand is beloved for its ready-to-heat favorites made with quality ingredients and no artificial additives. Available in over 200 stores across North America, Long Phung makes it easy to bring a little taste of tradition and a lot of flavor to your table.

The Lavish Goat Bath Products

Sugarland (Houston Region)

The Lavish Goat crafts vibrant bath and body products designed to turn everyday routines into joyful rituals. What started in Candice and Sean Wheat’s kitchen during the pandemic has grown into a women-led, minority-owned manufacturer producing high-quality bath bombs and menthol-infused shower steamers. Known for their colorful designs and hidden prize surprises, The Lavish Goat combines artistry, aromatherapy, and community impact-all made in Texas with heart supporting the community through charitable efforts and internships for adults with Autism and Down Syndrome.

Klein Smokehaus Bacon 

Boerne (San Antonio Region)

Klein Smokehaus Oak Smoked Bacon is locally made and handcrafted on Boerne’s Hill Country Mile by native Texans the old-world way. This slow process and local oak creates bacon with a unique depth of aroma and flavor. Family owned and operated since 1950; Klein Smokehaus has deep roots in the Texas Hill Country. A nod to this German heritage and tradition, Klein’s specialty meat products are a true taste of history.

Jam-In Tools Crawfish Peeler

Dickinson (Houston Region)

JAM-IN Crawfish Tool, started as a simple idea to take the hassle out of crawfish boils. It has grown into a homegrown gadget that keeps the tradition of crawfish boils fun and accessible for all, with a product that’s tough, practical, and Texas through and through. From first timers to seasoned pros,   peeling crawfish can be quick, easy, and nail friendly. Proudly based in Dickinson, founder Joann Meguess works with local partners to build and package each tool right here in Texas.

Deli Spice Cooking Spices 

McAllen (Border Region)

Born from Sully Villareal’s dream to share real Mexican food with the world (no shortcuts) Deli Spices’ Birria Spice Mix is made withreal dried chiles and toasted spices. It’s a 3-step recipe: just add meat, water, and the mix — no cooking skills required. Everyblend is tested by families and perfected by a Mexican mom in Texas to help people cook authentic birria in under 30 minutes withrestaurant-level flavor and reviving the Villareal family’s memories with every bite.