Compostable films: a packaging trial checklist

A compostable packaging brief needs two approvals: suitability for the product and evidence for the intended disposal claim. Start with the exact film grade and finished structure. Broad labels such as PLA, PHA or paper do not establish how a printed, sealed pack will perform.

Define the disposal claim first

Industrial compostability and home compostability are different claims. European Bioplastics identifies EN 13432 as a standard for industrially compostable packaging and describes separate home-composting certification schemes. Check the certificate, its scope and the disposal route available to the intended customer. See the European Bioplastics FAQ.

Ask whether the evidence covers the finished package, including its printing, coatings, adhesives and closures. Do not assume that a certificate for a base film automatically covers every subsequent packaging construction. Confirm permitted wording and marks before the artwork is released.

Build the trial around the supplier's data

Request the technical data sheet for the proposed grade and thickness. Review recommended storage, web handling, drying and sealing conditions with the film supplier and converter. Treat these as grade-specific inputs. A material family name is not a sound basis for claiming that all compostable films are weak, heat sensitive or suitable for the same machine settings.

The trial brief should state the machine, artwork repeat, roll width, target pack dimensions and the quantity needed for assessment. Record changes to the film or process so a successful sample can be traced back to the conditions that produced it.

Evaluate the finished package

Choose checks that reflect the product. These may include print registration, seal performance and handling tests, with barrier measurements where the shelf-life brief requires them. Specify test methods, conditioning and acceptance criteria before the trial. A compostability certificate does not establish the shelf life of the packed product.

Include a filling trial when machine compatibility is part of the decision. Keep samples from the agreed construction and record the result against each requirement. Resolve failures before ordering a larger run.

Prepare an inquiry that can be evaluated

Send the product description, intended market and disposal claim, current pack, target format, filling conditions and proposed material documents. HUAYN can coordinate the artwork and prepress brief with printing requirements. Availability, trial scope and supporting documents must be confirmed for the specific order.