Compostable Food Packaging: Closing the Loop in Hospitality

As sustainability becomes a defining issue for the food and hospitality industry, businesses are increasingly turning to compostable food packaging as a practical alternative to conventional plastics and non-recyclable materials.

Compostable packaging is designed not only to protect food but also to safely return to the earth as nutrient-rich compost once disposed of in the right environment.

This positions it as a key player in the shift toward a circular economy, where waste is repurposed rather than discarded.

 

What is Compostable Food Packaging?

Compostable food packaging is made from natural, renewable materials that decompose under controlled composting conditions into carbon dioxide, water, and organic matter without leaving behind harmful residues or microplastics.

Unlike “biodegradable” packaging, which may break down unpredictably over an indefinite timeframe, compostable packaging meets strict certification standards (such as EN 13432 in Europe or ASTM D6400 in the US) that guarantee it will disintegrate within a specified period, usually 90 to 180 days in industrial composting facilities.

 

Common Compostable Materials used for Food Packaging

 

Challenges and Considerations of Compostable Food Packaging

Despite its promise, compostable food packaging comes with challenges. Most products require industrial composting facilities, which are not available everywhere. If placed in general waste or recycling bins, compostables may contaminate waste streams or end up in landfill, where they degrade slowly without oxygen.

Another challenge is consumer confusion—many people mistake “biodegradable” for “compostable,” leading to improper disposal. Businesses must therefore provide clear disposal instructions and choose certified compostable products to ensure authenticity.

Compostable food packaging offers a powerful opportunity for the hospitality industry to reduce its environmental footprint and embrace circular practices.

By transforming food packaging into valuable compost, businesses can contribute to soil health, cut down on waste, and appeal to sustainability-conscious customers.

While challenges remain in terms of infrastructure and education, compostable packaging represents an innovative step toward greener, more responsible food service.

Compostable Food Packaging FAQs

 

 

Compostable packaging is made from plant-based materials that compost into soil within about 60–90 days under proper conditions. It turns into compost, water, and carbon dioxide—without harmful leftovers.

 
 

Compostable materials are a specific type of biodegradable—they break down faster (within about 90 days) and have certified testing to EN 13432.

Some compostable products and materials require special composting facilities to ensure they’re able to break down within the 30-90 period, whereas many biodegradable products can be composted at home.

 
 

By the EN 13432 standard, compostable packaging must break apart within 12 weeks and biodegrade at least 90% within 180 days in an industrial composting facility

 
 

No — compostable items are not recyclable and can spoil plastic recycling systems. Only compost them in designated compost bins, home or commercial, depending on the specific disposal instructions for that product.

If you are unable to compost these products, they are suitable for general waste where they can break down in landfill.

 
 

In landfills without air, it breaks down very slowly or may not compost properly. Unlike some materials that emit methane, compostable packaging generally behaves like organic waste when in contact with air and moisture.

 
 

Some items like paper or bagasse work in home compost. But many require industrial composting facilities with higher heat and airflow to meet the 60–90 day timeline.

 
 

Compostable packaging is cost-effective, doesn’t alter the taste of the food or drink packaged within, whilst keeping many desirable properties such as being durable, leak-resistant or leak-proof, and with great insulating properties.

For businesses that are more conscious about their environmental impact, and with growing customer demands for more eco-friendly packaging, compostable options strike a great balance.

 
 

Compostable packaging is made from plant-based materials that compost into soil within about 60–90 days under proper conditions. It turns into compost, water, and carbon dioxide—without harmful leftovers.

 
 

Compostable materials are a specific type of biodegradable—they break down faster (within about 90 days) and have certified testing to EN 13432.

Some compostable products and materials require special composting facilities to ensure they’re able to break down within the 30-90 period, whereas many biodegradable products can be composted at home.

 
 
  • Shows commitment to the environment
  • Helps reduce landfill waste
  • Works well for eco‑focused branding
  • Meets food safety and eco standards
 

Certainly! If you would like to test our products before making a purchase, we can provide samples for you to evaluate. Please reach out to us via phone at +44(0)20 3006 2432, Whatsapp or email info@packagingenvironmental.co.uk. Our team will be happy to assist you and send the samples to you within a few days.