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Compostable Packaging

Compostable packaging is a niche but powerful option for specific food and drink applications, especially where packs are heavily contaminated and conventional recycling does not work. At Aropack, we supply certified compostable pouches and films for brands that have the right infrastructure and end of life routes in place.

Our compostable packaging is a plastic-free option made from certified plant-based materials designed to break down safely in UK composting systems.

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Aropack compostable stand-up pouch with TÜV Austria certification—ideal for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging.
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Key Features of Compostable Packaging

Our compostable packaging range is designed for brands that have a clear route to composting and want proven, certified structures rather than simple green claims. We offer compostable films on the reel and finished pouches with compostable zippers, all printed using non toxic, compostable inks. Each structure is individually certified to EN 13432 for home and industrial composting and complies with EU requirements and TÜV compost certifications.

We supply compostable packaging materials are compatible with the paper waste stream and are designed to break down in less than 12 weeks in industrial composting conditions and around 26 weeks in ambient home composting. They are based on renewable resources, using cellulose and PLA based multi layer structures, with metallised and paper alternatives available.

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Technical Overview

Why brands choose compostable packaging?

Compostable packaging bags offer a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic by breaking down naturally into non-toxic components under specific environmental conditions. Unlike conventional packaging that can persist for centuries, compostable materials decompose within months, helping to minimise landfill waste and support circular economy principles.

Key Benefits

Home and Industrial Compostable

Plant based plastic-free materials

Decompose between 6-8 months

TUV Compost certification

Available as film or pouch

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What Is Certified Compostable Packaging?

Compostable packaging is defined by standards such as EN 13432, which require the material to disintegrate and biodegrade within set timeframes under controlled composting conditions and to pass strict ecotoxicity tests

Where Compostable Packaging Makes Sense?

Typical applications include foodservice packs collected with food waste, speciality coffee or dry foods in markets where industrial composting infrastructure is available, and small components such as labels that must be compostable by regulation.

Compostable vs Recyclable Packaging

Recyclable mono-material PE and PP pouches are now the default sustainable route for many everyday products in the UK. Compostable structures are better reserved for products that cannot be effectively recycled or are part of an organised organics collection system.

Technical Overview: Compostable Packaging

Our compostable laminates combine different biopolymers to balance machinability, sealability and barrier performance. We use materials such as PLA, PHA, PBAT, PBS, starch based films and cellulose based films which can be configured to create pouch or laminate films for selected food and non food products.

At Aropack, our compostable packaging bags and films are designed to be customizable with the options below,

Sizes

Available in sizes ranging from 20g to 20kg.

Finish

Matt, glossy, paper-feel or spot finish.

Film Properties

Available with oxygen, moisture, light and puncture barriers.

Filling & Sealing

Heat sealable, not suitable for hot filling.

Materials

Cellulose and PLA-based structures with kraft paper alternatives.

Printing

Digital, flexo and gravure print up to 9 colours.

Our compostable packaging can be customised with the following custom features:

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Sealing Options

Zipper, Peel Seal, Top Sliders, Child-Resistant, Aplix

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Laser Scoring

Effortless opening, ideal for sturdy & thicker materials

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Rounded Corners

Enhance shelf appeal, improve safety, and ease handling

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Handles

Easy to Carry: side handles, top handles, euro-slots

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Perforations

Allows airflow while maintaining breathability

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Windows

Clear or frosted windows

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Tear Notch

Easy-to-open for convenient consumption

Industries Using Compostable Packaging

Compostable packaging requires careful technical evaluation of whether barrier properties match the sensitivity of the product and the overall structure remain well within the chosen standard. Here are some of the industries we supply the compostable packaging to,

Sports & Nutrition

Preserves the quality of products like protein powders, energy bars, and supplements, ensuring users receive optimal support for their training and performance.

Pet Food

Ensuring the nutritional integrity of items like kibble, treats, and supplements, pet owners rely on quality to provide their pets with balanced meals for well-being.

Coffee

The quality of coffee over time is heavily influenced by its packaging; hence, the role of coffee packaging is crucial in ensuring customer satisfaction.

Health & Beauty

Designed to preserve the excellence of skincare, cosmetics, and personal care essentials, ensuring you indulge in the finest products.

Confectionery

Packaging for candies, chocolates, and treats, making every moment a delightful and memorable experience.

Snacks

Our packaging for snacks and nuts are crafted to preserve freshness and crunchiness, delivering a premium taste.

Jerky

Savour the flavour with our jerky packaging, ensuring every bite is a mouthwatering experience of perfection.

Cannabis

It is essential to protect the quality of cannabis products and ensure consumers enjoy the full benefits.

Why Choose Aropack as Your Compostable Packaging Supplier?

At Aropack we develop certified compostable pouch and film structures for brands that have a clear end of life route, realistic performance expectations and a genuine need for compostable packaging. We start by assessing whether a recyclable mono material structure will meet the product’s barrier, shelf life, packing and logistics requirements. Only where recycling is not practical, or where a customer has strong composting infrastructure and a defined sustainability strategy, do we move towards compostable specifications.

If you are exploring compostable pouches or films for a specific product range, our technical team can review your product, shelf life and waste routes and advise whether a compostable structure is suitable, or whether a recyclable mono material solution will serve you better in the UK market.

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Compostable packaging symbol with leaves, representing eco-friendly and biodegradable flexible packaging.

Got questions about compostable packaging?

Curious about sustainable alternatives to plastic? Our compostable packaging materials offers eco-friendly performance without compromising shelf appeal or safety.

Have a different question?

All compostable packaging is biodegradable, but not all biodegradable packaging is compostable. Compostable materials must fully break down into organic matter within a specific time frame under composting conditions, often certified by standards like EN 13432 or ASTM D6400.

Yes. We supply both industrial compostable (requires high-temperature composting facilities) and home compostable packaging suitable for low-temperature breakdown in garden compost bins.

Compostable packaging is ideal for dry snacks, tea, coffee, grains, supplements, and single-serve items — especially for eco-conscious brands looking to minimise plastic use.

Under industrial composting conditions, our certified films decompose within 90–180 days. Home compostable packaging may take longer, depending on humidity, temperature, and composting activity.

Compared to traditional plastic films, compostable materials may have lower barrier performance against moisture and oxygen. However, we offer high-barrier compostable laminates that meet most shelf-life requirements.

Yes, we can add compostable zipper options to pouches, though availability depends on pouch structure and intended composting route (home vs industrial).

Packaging should be disposed of in compost bins certified for compostable materials. If available, industrial composting is preferred. We can include clear disposal guidance and certification logos directly on your packaging.

Yes. Our compostable films and pouches are certified food-safe and comply with EU and FDA food contact regulations.

Absolutely. We offer compostable packaging with water-based or compostable inks via digital or gravure printing, depending on your quantities and design needs.

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