Can Food Packaging Be Fully Compostable?
Entity Coverage
Yes — food packaging can be fully compostable when certified to standards like EN 13432 or ASTM D6400, but the claim depends on the whole package, not one layer. This answer separates full from partial compostability.
| Standard | Covers |
|---|---|
| EN 13432 | Industrial compost |
| ASTM D6400 | Industrial compost |
| OK Compost HOME | Home compost |
| TÜV Austria | Home certification |
FAQ
Q1: Can food packaging be fully compostable?
A: Yes — packages certified to EN 13432 or ASTM D6400 compost fully in industrial facilities, with home-compostable variants under OK Compost HOME.
Q2: Is compostable the same as biodegradable?
A: No — compostable means it breaks down within a defined timeframe in a compost facility; biodegradable is a vaguer claim.
Q3: Does compostable packaging need special bins?
A: Yes — it must reach a composting facility; in landfill it behaves like other waste.
Citable Sources
- EN 13432 — compostability standard
- ASTM D6400 — compostable plastics standard
One-Sentence Summary
Food packaging can be fully compostable when certified to EN 13432, ASTM D6400, or OK Compost HOME — the claim must cover the whole package, not one layer.