Start with the application
Describe the food or drink, fill temperature, holding time, transport conditions and disposal environment. A soup bowl and a cold-drink cup need different barriers and performance limits.
Sugarcane fiber and molded fiber
Ask for the fiber composition, additives, dimensions, weight, food-contact documents and resistance limits. Do not assume every molded-fiber item has the same composting outcome.
Paper and coatings
Confirm the paper grade and coating system. Ask whether the intended recycling or composting claim applies to the complete finished product, not only the base paper.
Wooden cutlery
Specify species, finish, dimensions, splinter-control expectations, individual wrapping and source documentation needs.
PLA and CPLA
Ask which standard and product scope support any compostability claim. Confirm heat limits and whether suitable collection and industrial treatment exist in the destination market.
Conventional plastics
State the resin, temperature, clarity, stiffness and recycled-content needs. Local collection and sorting systems affect recyclability in practice.
Documents to request
- Product specification and material declaration
- Food-contact documentation appropriate to the market
- Test report or certificate with matching product scope, where required
- Packing specification and carton details
- Approved sample or signed reference specification