---
title: I can’t find a label for compostable/biodegradable packaging?
description: Compostable materials have the potential to play a valuable role, particularly for food packaging with a risk of significant 3-D food contamination, or where they help to reduce plastic contamination
---

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# I can’t find a label for compostable/biodegradable packaging?

Compostable materials have the potential to play a valuable role, particularly for food packaging with a risk of significant 3-D food contamination, or where they help to reduce plastic contamination in food waste collections (e.g. labels on fruit). However, until most councils accept compostable packaging in food waste collections and the packaging is able to be processed with the food waste, OPRL does not have the evidence to label compostable packaging for recycling with food waste. Some local authorities will accept bags certified as industrially compostable in food waste collections as caddy liners. These must conform to EN 13432 as a minimum, with home-compostability certification from the OK Compost HOME test protocol highly recommended. [See more guidance here](https://bbia.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Provision-of-Compostable-Carrier-Bags-October-2019.pdf).

 **All compostable packaging must be labelled ‘Do Not Recycle’ to avoid contaminating recyclate.**

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