As we become more conscious of our environmental impact, choosing compostable food packaging is a great way to reduce waste. But how can you tell which packaging is truly compostable? Here are three practical examples to help you identify compostable food packaging in your everyday life.
In many cases, the easiest way to identify compostable food packaging is by checking for certification labels. These labels indicate that the packaging meets certain composting standards. Common certifications include the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) logo and the European Standard (EN13432) symbol.
When you’re at the grocery store or a restaurant, take a moment to inspect the packaging. If you see a certification label, it’s a good indication that the item is compostable. For instance, a takeout container made from plant-based materials like sugarcane or bamboo often features the BPI logo.
Note: Always check the packaging materials as some items may only be partially compostable, such as those with plastic linings.
Another practical method to identify compostable food packaging is to familiarize yourself with common compostable materials. Many compostable options are made from natural, renewable resources. Examples include:
When shopping or dining out, if you encounter packaging made from these materials, there’s a good chance it’s compostable. Just remember to avoid items that have a shiny or plastic coating, as those may not break down properly in a composting system.
Note: Some brands may blend materials for durability, so always check if the item is labeled as compostable.
If you’re unsure about a particular type of packaging, you can perform a simple water test. This method works best with items made from materials like cardboard or paper.
Take a small piece of the packaging you want to test, and place it in a bowl of water for a few minutes. Compostable packaging will usually begin to break down and disintegrate in water, while traditional plastics will remain intact.
For example, if you have a food wrapper that you suspect is compostable, soaking it in water can give you insight into its composition. If it breaks apart easily, it is likely compostable.
Note: This method is not foolproof for all materials, especially those with multiple layers or coatings, so use this as a supplementary check rather than a definitive answer.