How to Verify Biodegradable Packaging Claims |

August 25, 2025

How to Verify Biodegradable Packaging Claims

Verifying biodegradable packaging claims is essential to avoid misleading consumers, regulatory penalties, and accusations of greenwashing. Here's what you need to know:

What "Biodegradable" Means: Materials break down into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass through microorganisms. However, the term isn't strictly regulated, and decomposition rates depend on environmental conditions.
Key Differences: Biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable packaging vary in decomposition time, required conditions, and end results. Misusing these terms can confuse consumers.
Regulations: U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Green Guides require claims to be backed by scientific evidence reflecting actual disposal conditions. International standards like ISO 14021 and ASTM guidelines further support compliance.
Testing & Certifications: Standards such as ASTM D6400 or certifications like BPI Certified Compostable ensure claims are valid. Keep detailed test reports and certifications on hand.
Labeling: Use clear, specific language on packaging to guide consumers on proper disposal. Avoid vague terms and include verified conditions for biodegradability.
Avoid Greenwashing: Ensure claims are precise and backed by documentation. Regular audits and supplier agreements help maintain transparency.

Why Most "Biodegradable" Products Are Probably Fake | World Wide Waste | Business Insider

What Is Biodegradable Packaging

Before diving into the specifics of biodegradable packaging, it’s important to understand what the term actually represents. Clear definitions are critical - not just for meeting regulatory standards but also for building trust with consumers. Unfortunately, terms like "biodegradable" are often used loosely, leading to confusion and even misinformation.

How to Define Biodegradable Packaging

Biodegradable packaging refers to materials that naturally break down with the help of microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, or algae. Over time, these organisms transform the material into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass.

Here’s the catch: the term "biodegradable" isn’t universally regulated, and there’s no standard timeframe for how quickly the material must decompose. This means something could technically be labeled biodegradable even if it takes decades to break down. Without clearly defined conditions and timeframes, claims about biodegradability can be misleading.

Another factor to consider is that biodegradation rates depend heavily on the environment. For instance, a material might break down quickly in a warm, humid composting facility but take much longer in a dry landfill. Understanding these nuances is essential for evaluating claims and ensuring accurate communication about a product’s environmental impact.

Biodegradable vs. Compostable vs. Recyclable: Key Differences

Many people struggle to differentiate between terms like biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable. In fact, nearly half of American consumers find it difficult to distinguish between "compostable" and "biodegradable", while 42% admit to guessing when it comes to disposal instructions. This confusion can lead to improper disposal and undermine sustainability efforts.

Here’s a breakdown of how these terms differ:

Term	Definition	Time Frame	Conditions Required	End Result
Biodegradable	Breaks down via microorganisms	Undefined (can take years)	Varies by environment	Basic elements like water, CO₂, and biomass
Compostable	Fully decomposes in composting conditions	Typically 90–180 days	Specific temperature, humidity, and oxygen	Nutrient-rich compost with no toxic residue
Recyclable	Can be processed into new products	No set timeframe (mechanical/chemical process)	Access to recycling facilities	New materials or products

Key takeaway: While all compostable items are biodegradable, not all biodegradable items are compostable. Compostable materials must meet stricter criteria, breaking down completely within a set timeframe without leaving harmful residues.

Compostable packaging, for example, often requires industrial composting facilities to break down properly. However, only 27% of Americans have access to composting services, and the U.S. has just 185 full-time commercial composting sites. Without the right infrastructure, even compostable materials can end up in landfills, where they won’t decompose as intended.

Recyclable packaging, on the other hand, follows an entirely different path. Instead of breaking down, it’s processed into new materials, extending the lifecycle of the original components and supporting a more circular system.

Why does this matter? Misusing these terms or making vague claims can lead to accusations of greenwashing, regulatory penalties, and public backlash. Regulators worldwide are cracking down on misleading sustainability claims, so brands need to ensure their statements are backed by clear, verifiable data.

U.S. Regulations and Standards for Biodegradable Claims

In the United States, making claims about biodegradable packaging comes with strict legal obligations. Failing to meet these requirements can result in hefty penalties.

FTC Guidelines and Federal Requirements

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Green Guides are the go-to resource for businesses making environmental marketing claims in the U.S. Officially titled the "Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims", these guidelines were last updated in 2012 and lay out the rules for substantiating claims, including biodegradability.

Under the Green Guides, any claim about biodegradability must be supported by solid scientific evidence and verified testing that mirrors real-world disposal conditions. Additionally, the claims must be communicated clearly and without misleading language.

Violating these guidelines can lead to serious consequences, such as monetary fines, court orders, and even consumer compensation. To stay compliant, businesses must ensure their environmental claims are precise, well-documented, and include details about the conditions and timeframes under which materials break down.

International Standards Relevant to U.S. Businesses

While adhering to FTC guidelines is mandatory, many U.S. companies also rely on international standards to strengthen their biodegradable claims. These standards provide detailed testing protocols and performance benchmarks that help validate claims and ensure compliance.

ISO 14021: This standard requires environmental claims to be truthful, verifiable, and backed by comprehensive documentation, including specifics about disposal methods and degradation timelines.
ASTM Standards: Standards like ASTM D6400, D6868, and D6691 outline performance criteria for industrial composting and marine biodegradation. These are commonly used in the U.S. to substantiate claims.
EN 13432: Although this European standard isn’t required in the U.S., it’s often referenced by businesses operating internationally. It defines criteria for packaging that can be recovered through composting and biodegradation.

These international standards complement FTC regulations by offering a technical foundation for verifying claims. While they don’t replace U.S. requirements, they’re valuable tools for building credibility and preparing for global market demands.

To ensure compliance and scientific accuracy, collaborating with packaging experts can be a smart move. For specialized guidance on meeting regulatory and environmental criteria, check out Paking Duck, a company that focuses on custom packaging solutions.

Next, dive into the testing and certification processes that can further validate your biodegradable claims.

Testing and Certification for Biodegradable Claims

Testing and certification play a crucial role in validating biodegradable claims. They help avoid regulatory setbacks and maintain consumer confidence.

Accepted Testing Standards You Should Know

In the U.S., biodegradability claims are confirmed through rigorous testing aligned with regulatory guidelines. Various ASTM standards are widely referenced to assess how materials break down in different environments:

ASTM D6400: This standard evaluates compostable plastics in industrial and municipal composting systems. It measures disintegration and biodegradation under controlled conditions and ensures the resulting compost is safe.
ASTM D6868: Designed for compostable plastics used as coatings or additives on substrates like paper, this standard is particularly relevant for food packaging, such as coated cups or containers.
ASTM D6691: This standard examines how materials degrade in marine environments by simulating seawater conditions in a lab setting.
ASTM D5511: Focused on anaerobic biodegradation, this standard evaluates how materials break down in high-solids environments, such as landfills, by comparing them to a reference material.

It's important to note that lab conditions often differ from real-world disposal scenarios. For instance, certification for industrial composting doesn't guarantee biodegradability in home composting systems.

How Third-Party Certifications Help Your Claims

Beyond standard testing, third-party certifications provide an extra layer of trust. These independent verifications validate biodegradable claims and demonstrate your commitment to transparency:

BPI Certified Compostable: A widely recognized certification in North America, it ensures products meet ASTM standards and undergo regular audits.
USDA BioPreferred: While primarily focused on verifying the bio-based content of products, this certification complements biodegradability claims by confirming the use of renewable biological ingredients through scientific testing.
OK compost HOME: Administered by TÜV AUSTRIA, this certification confirms that a product will break down in home composting conditions. It's especially valuable for consumer-facing products intended for non-industrial composting.

Since certification involves time and resources, partnering with experts can simplify the process. For instance, working with specialists like Paking Duck can connect you with qualified labs and certification bodies, streamlining compliance efforts.

Documentation and Record-Keeping Requirements

Once your biodegradable claims are validated and certified, maintaining thorough records is essential for ongoing compliance and credibility. Here’s what to keep track of:

Detailed Test Reports: Include the methodology, testing conditions, raw data, analysis, and any limitations noted during biodegradability assessments.
Certification Documents: Retain original certifications, including the scope of accreditation, limitations, and renewal details. Records of audits or recertifications should also be documented.
Chain-of-Custody Records: Ensure you have documentation proving that tested samples accurately represent your production materials. This may include supplier certifications, material specs, and quality control records.
Disposal Conditions: Clearly outline the specific conditions under which your packaging was tested. For example, if biodegradation is certified only for industrial composting, that limitation must be communicated transparently.

Using a document management system can simplify organizing these records, tracking certification renewal dates, and scheduling retesting. This approach ensures your environmental claims remain accurate and credible over time.

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How to Label Biodegradable Packaging Correctly

Once your packaging has passed testing and received certification, the next step is creating labels that build trust with consumers and meet regulatory standards. These labels don't just confirm compliance - they also guide consumers on proper disposal methods.

Required Labeling Elements for Compliance

Your labels should reflect the exact conditions verified during testing. Regulations demand that claims about biodegradability be accurate, specific, and backed by solid documentation. Clearly state the conditions under which the packaging breaks down. For example, if your product only biodegrades in industrial composting facilities, your label must explicitly mention this. Including disposal instructions that align with the test conditions is crucial to staying compliant.

Avoid vague or misleading language that could confuse consumers. Claims should be both definitive and supported by testing. The design of your label matters too - biodegradability claims should be easy to spot. If space is tight, use standardized symbols alongside concise text, ensuring detailed instructions are available elsewhere on the package or in supplementary materials.

The goal is to turn this technical clarity into guidance that consumers can easily understand.

How to Communicate Clearly with Consumers

Labeling isn’t just about compliance - it’s also about educating consumers on how to dispose of packaging correctly. Many people find packaging terms confusing, so simplicity is key.

Use straightforward language like "Place in your municipal compost bin" or "Suitable for backyard composting." Avoid technical jargon, and pair text with composting symbols or disposal icons to make the message even clearer.

Think about how and when consumers interact with your packaging. Disposal instructions should be placed in highly visible areas, such as near the opening of food packaging or on the bottom panel, where consumers naturally look when finishing the product.

To reach a broader audience, include instructions in both English and Spanish. You can also use QR codes or links to direct consumers to online resources, such as detailed disposal guides or directories of local composting facilities.

Collaborating with packaging experts can simplify the process. Companies like Paking Duck specialize in creating labels that meet legal requirements while effectively communicating with consumers, helping you balance compliance and transparency seamlessly.

How to Avoid Greenwashing and Stay Transparent

Even the most well-intentioned brands can stumble into greenwashing. Misleading claims about biodegradability can result in fines, public backlash, and long-term damage to a brand’s reputation. Let’s break down common pitfalls that might lead to greenwashing and explore how to avoid them.

Common Greenwashing Mistakes to Avoid

Using vague terms like "eco-friendly", "natural", or "biodegradable" without proper context is a major red flag. For instance, labeling packaging as "biodegradable" when it only degrades under industrial conditions can mislead consumers into thinking it will break down in everyday settings. Specificity is key.

Another common mistake is making unverified claims. Relying solely on supplier assurances isn’t enough. You need independent test reports from accredited facilities that follow established standards to back up these claims.

Be wary of presenting incomplete data. If only parts of your packaging meet biodegradability standards, claiming the entire package is biodegradable can be misleading. Every component - whether it’s the primary material, inks, adhesives, or coatings - must be evaluated to ensure the claim is accurate.

Avoid subjective language like "quickly" unless you clearly define the conditions and timeframe. Providing detailed, specific information helps consumers understand what to expect and builds trust.

These errors don’t just lead to regulatory penalties; they can erode consumer trust. Once trust is lost, it’s incredibly hard to regain, especially in today’s world where negative feedback spreads like wildfire on social media.

Steps to Audit and Update Your Claims

To maintain transparency and avoid greenwashing, it’s essential to take a proactive approach to auditing and updating your claims. Here’s how to get started:

Review existing claims: Go through all biodegradable claims on your packaging, marketing materials, and website. Ensure each claim is backed by documented test results and identify any gaps in verification.
Gather documentation: Collect supplier certifications, third-party test reports, and facility accreditations. Claims without proper evidence should either be tested or removed altogether.
Establish internal processes: Assign team members to approve all environmental claims before they’re made public. Create a checklist that includes verification requirements, language guidelines, and approval workflows. Train your marketing, product development, and packaging teams on regulatory standards and acceptable terminology.
Update supplier agreements: Require suppliers to provide detailed test reports, not just summaries. Include clauses that mandate notification if certifications lapse or test results change.
Stay informed: Keep up with regulatory changes by subscribing to industry publications and alerts. This ensures you can quickly adapt to new guidelines or standards.
Schedule regular reviews: Conduct annual audits of your claims. Packaging formulations and test results can change over time, so systematic reviews should be part of your compliance routine.

For additional support, consider working with packaging specialists like Paking Duck. They can help streamline the verification process and maintain transparency across your supply chain.

Investing in thorough verification and regular audits not only protects your brand from regulatory risks but also strengthens consumer trust. In a market where environmental claims are under constant scrutiny, having clear, well-documented claims can truly set your brand apart.

Conclusion: Building Trust Through Verified Biodegradable Claims

Earning consumer trust in biodegradable packaging starts with verifying your claims. In today’s market, brands that thrive don’t just stop at making promises - they back them up with rigorous testing and transparent processes.

The foundation of credible biodegradability lies in three key elements: accredited testing, clear documentation, and open communication with consumers. If even one of these is missing, your efforts could backfire, potentially harming your brand’s reputation rather than helping it.

Meeting established standards like ASTM D6400 and D6868, along with certifications from organizations such as BPI, does more than satisfy regulatory requirements. These steps protect your brand from accusations of greenwashing and set you apart in a crowded market. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also mandates that every environmental claim be supported by solid evidence - falling short could lead to penalties or legal challenges.

Staying compliant isn’t a one-and-done process. Regular audits are essential to ensure your claims remain accurate as regulations and packaging formulations evolve. What passed scrutiny last year might not hold up today, so implementing a systematic review process is critical for maintaining credibility.

For expert guidance, consider working with specialists like Paking Duck, who can help simplify the verification process and provide tailored, cost-effective packaging solutions.

Verified biodegradable claims aren’t just about following the rules - they’re about building trust, mitigating risks, and standing out in the marketplace. At a time when environmental claims face intense scrutiny, proving your packaging’s biodegradability can be a game-changer, appealing to eco-conscious customers while safeguarding your brand’s reputation for years to come.

FAQs

What’s the difference between biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable packaging, and how can I dispose of them properly?

Understanding the differences between biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable packaging is key to ensuring proper disposal and minimizing waste.

Biodegradable packaging naturally breaks down over time with the help of microorganisms. However, there’s no guarantee about the conditions or time it takes to decompose.
Compostable packaging is a specific type of biodegradable material that must break down into non-toxic, nutrient-rich compost within a certain timeframe. This process requires industrial or backyard composting conditions.
Recyclable packaging can be transformed into new materials through recycling processes. However, it’s not always biodegradable or compostable, and successful recycling depends on local facilities and proper sorting.

To dispose of these materials correctly, look for certifications such as ASTM D6400 or EN 13432 for compostable items. For recyclable materials, make sure they’re clean and sorted according to your local recycling rules. By understanding these terms, you can play a part in reducing waste and promoting responsible disposal practices.

What conditions are needed for biodegradable packaging to break down, and how can consumers confirm these are met?

Biodegradable packaging doesn't just break down anywhere - it needs the right conditions. Factors like light, water, oxygen, and specific temperatures that encourage microbial activity are key. In industrial composting facilities, these conditions are carefully controlled. For example, temperatures are kept around 136°F with proper humidity, ensuring that at least 90% of the material breaks down within six months.

To ensure your biodegradable packaging is disposed of correctly, check for labels that state it’s industrially compostable. Then, make sure it ends up at a municipal composting facility, where the right combination of temperature, moisture, and oxygen will help it decompose properly.

How can companies ensure their biodegradable packaging claims are accurate and meet FTC guidelines?

To make sure claims about biodegradable packaging are accurate and meet FTC guidelines, companies should stick to the FTC Green Guides. These guides emphasize the need for clear, honest, and well-supported statements. For instance, if a product is labeled as "biodegradable", there must be solid proof that it will fully break down and return to the environment within a reasonable period under normal disposal conditions.

Steer clear of using vague phrases like "eco-friendly" unless you have specific, verifiable data to back them up. Claims should be straightforward, easy for consumers to understand, and free of misleading language. Following these guidelines helps businesses avoid greenwashing and strengthens customer trust.