Compostable cling film for UK caterers: what to check before switching

Compostable cling film may suit a professional kitchen, but the label alone does not establish performance, food-contact suitability or an available disposal route. Test the exact product in your kitchen and ask for supporting documents before switching.

Check the product, not just the label

• Performance: trial the film on the bowls, trays and containers your team actually uses. Check cling, handling and cutting without assuming it performs identically to PVC or PE film.
• Food contact: request the applicable food-contact documentation and instructions for the intended foods and temperatures. Do not assume suitability for heating, microwaving or freezing.
• Dimensions: PlanetWrap's listed film is 44cm × 200m, at 12 micron, with a paper core. There are three rolls per box. How long a roll lasts depends on your usage.
• Fit: confirm width, core and maximum outer diameter. Compatibility testing with Wrapmaster 4500 and Prowrap is still in progress; dimensions alone are not proof of fit.

Understand the evidence

Industrial and home composting are different conditions. Ask which standard, certificate and exact product a claim covers. A certificate for industrial composting does not establish home compostability.

PlanetWrap's certification documents are pending upload. No home or industrial composting certification is currently claimed. Do not describe the film as plant-based, plastic-free or lower-carbon without evidence supporting that specific claim.

Agree a disposal route first

England's workplace recycling guidance says packaging labelled compostable or biodegradable cannot be recycled with food waste. Treat it as non-recyclable waste or arrange a dedicated collection. Do not put compostable film into ordinary plastic recycling. Follow the relevant rules elsewhere in the UK.

Frequently asked questions

Can I put the film in a home compost bin?

Do not assume so. Check a valid home-compostability certificate for the exact product and follow its conditions. PlanetWrap does not currently claim this certification.

Will switching automatically save money?

No. Compare the quote, usable coverage, waste, dispenser fit and disposal arrangements. A sample trial is a better basis than an assumed saving.

How should rolls be stored?

Follow the product's storage and shelf-life instructions. Ask for them if they are not supplied.

Check the film specification, review the evidence status or request a sample and supporting documents.