Is Your Compostable Bag Really Certified? 3 Things to Check
Compostable Packaging Guide
Is Your Compostable Bag Really Certified? 3 Things to Check
When sourcing compostable bags, buyers often ask: “Is the bag certified?” But an equally important question is: “What exactly does the certification cover?”
Compostable packaging certifications can provide evidence that a material or finished product has been tested against specific standards. However, different certifications have different requirements, and not every certificate applies to every product.
Here are three things to check before sourcing compostable bags.
1. Which Compostability Standard Does It Meet?
Standards and certification schemes such as EN 13432, BPI, OK compost INDUSTRIAL, and OK compost HOME address different requirements and applications.
For example, industrially compostable bags are designed for composting under controlled industrial conditions. They should not automatically be considered suitable for home composting.
What buyers should check: Confirm that the certification matches the composting conditions and requirements of the intended market.
2. Does the Certification Cover the Finished Bag?
A certification may apply to a raw material, resin, film, or finished product.
A certified compostable resin does not automatically mean every bag made from it is certified. Processing, product structure, thickness, additives, and other factors may affect the final product's compliance.
What buyers should check: Ask the supplier to confirm the certification scope and provide supporting documentation for the specific product.
3. Is the Certification Suitable for Your Target Market?
Certification requirements can vary by market, customer, and application. A retailer may require specific documentation for compostable packaging, while a distributor may need certificates covering particular product models or specifications.
What buyers should check: Confirm the applicable standards, customer requirements, and relevant local regulations before sourcing.
How Torise Supports Compostable Packaging Buyers
Torise supplies compostable raw materials and custom compostable bags for different packaging applications. Depending on the material, product configuration, and applicable requirements, relevant certifications and test reports may include EN 13432, DINplus, OK compost INDUSTRIAL, OK compost HOME, BPI, and other applicable schemes.
We recommend confirming the certification scope and supporting documents for each specific product before purchase.
A certification is more than a logo. It helps buyers make informed decisions about product suitability, compliance, and sourcing requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does certified compostable resin mean a finished bag is certified?
No. Certification of the resin does not automatically certify the finished bag. The certification scope and applicable product requirements must be verified.
What is the difference between industrial and home compostability?
Industrial composting and home composting involve different conditions. A product certified for industrial composting should not automatically be assumed suitable for home composting.
What should buyers request from a compostable bag supplier?
Ask for the relevant certificate, its scope and validity, and documentation matching the specific product being purchased.
Looking for Certified Compostable Packaging?
Contact Torise to discuss your compostable packaging requirements and request relevant certification documentation for your target market and application.
