Industrial Compostable
Designed for controlled commercial composting conditions and evaluated against the relevant certification or test scope.
Flexible packaging
Compostable & Plastic-Free Packaging Solutions
Industrial compostable, home compostable, and plastic-free packaging are different pathways—not interchangeable labels. P&M reviews the product, structure, components, disposal environment, and supporting evidence before recommending or publishing a claim.
Home Compostable
A distinct pathway with different conditions and evidence; an industrial-compostability result cannot be generalized to home composting.
Plastic-Free Paper
Paper-oriented bags and wraps can be reviewed, but coatings, adhesives, liners, windows, closures, and the definition of plastic-free must be confirmed.
Claim Review
Scope, wording, certification owner, applicable thickness and construction, market, and evidence validity are checked before publication.
Three distinct material pathways
Industrial compostable packaging is intended for managed facilities; home compostable packaging targets lower-temperature household conditions; plastic-free paper solutions use a different material and claim framework. A package should be assessed within the pathway it actually supports.
The complete package matters
Film or paper alone does not establish the final claim. Printing inks, laminating adhesives, coatings, sealants, zippers, valves, spouts, labels and other components may change suitability.
- Product compatibility and barrier
- Seal and filling performance
- All package components
- Certification or test scope
- Disposal instructions and intended market
Responsible environmental language
Terms such as compostable, biodegradable and plastic-free require precise definitions and substantiation. Website, artwork and sales language should match the exact certified or tested construction, conditions, geography and validity period.
Frequently asked questions
Are industrial and home compostable packaging the same?
No. They refer to different composting conditions and evidence requirements. A result for industrial composting should not be presented as proof of home compostability.
Does biodegradable mean the package can be littered or composted at home?
No. Biodegradation depends on defined conditions and timeframes. The term should not be used without evidence and clear disposal context.
What must be checked before calling a paper package plastic-free?
Review the paper, barrier coating, sealant, adhesive, inks, window, liner, closure, label and the claim definition used in the intended market.