Earth friendly products for a healthier planet
Filed byReggie Recycle

Food safety and compostable packaging: what to check

Packaging has rules.

Reggie

Packaging has rules.

18 May 2026

The short answer

If packaging touches food, do not rely on the word compostable. Check that it is suitable for that food-contact job.

09:20

Compostability is about end of life. Food safety is about contact during use. Different questions.

09:30

Food-contact proof comes first. Composting route comes later.

What to check

Check what food it touches, whether the food is hot, oily, acidic, wet, dry, wrapped, stored, or served straight away.

09:40

Check the supplier information. Food-contact materials have rules, and novel bio-based materials can need careful evidence.

09:50

Check disposal separately. A food-safe pack may not be home-compostable, and a compostable pack may not be accepted in your local collection.

10:00

Where Generation earth fits

Generation earth food-waste liners are for caddy routines, not a substitute for food-contact packaging advice.

10:10

For liners, use the council bin checker, shop the liner range, or ask through contact.

10:20
Sources and proof