Sustainable food packaging
Choosing food packaging that is genuinely better for the environment means understanding what happens to it after use. This page explains the main options, the Australian standards and labels, and how to avoid misleading claims.
This is a free, non-commercial reference page. It is general information only, not professional, legal or financial advice, and it does not rank or recommend any business. Listing in the directory is not an endorsement. Check current details with the official websites linked below.
The guide
The main things to understand.
Compostable, recyclable or reusable?
Compostable packaging only breaks down properly in the right composting conditions. Recyclable packaging needs a working collection and recycling system. Reusable packaging avoids waste if it is actually returned and reused.
Compostable standards
In Australia, AS 4736 covers packaging compostable in industrial facilities and AS 5810 covers home-compostable packaging. Certification is managed through the Australasian Bioplastics Association.
Recycling labels
The Australasian Recycling Label tells consumers which bin each part of the packaging belongs in, based on assessed recyclability in Australia.
Single-use plastic bans
States and territories have banned or are phasing out many single-use plastic food service items. Rules and timelines differ, so check your state's environment agency.
Food safety
Packaging must be suitable for food contact and for the food it holds, including hot, oily or acidic foods. Ask suppliers for food-contact information.
Green claims
Claims like 'eco-friendly' or 'biodegradable' must be accurate and able to be backed up. The ACCC has guidance on environmental and sustainability claims.
Official and industry sources
Where to check the details.
| Name | Location | Website | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australasian Bioplastics Association | National | bioplastics.org.au | |
| Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) | National | apco.org.au | |
| Australasian Recycling Label | National | arl.org.au | |
| ACCC: Environmental and sustainability claims | National | www.accc.gov.au/business/advertising-and-promotions/environmental-and-sustainability-claims | |
| Food Standards Australia New Zealand | National | www.foodstandards.gov.au |
Inclusion in this directory is not an endorsement. Links are to official websites as published at the time of checking.
Before you decide
Questions worth asking.
- Is it certified to AS 4736 or AS 5810?
- A certification number is more reliable than a claim.
- Can my customers actually compost or recycle it locally?
- The end-of-life system matters as much as the material.
- Does it comply with my state's plastic bans?
- Rules differ between states.
- Is it suitable for hot, oily or acidic food?
- Food-contact suitability varies.
About this page
This page is a plain reference on sustainable food packaging. It does not sell packaging. Suppliers wanting a correction can use the contact link below.