Sinclair develops clearer instructions for compostable fruit labels

Sinclair, a specialist in fresh product labeling, is developing clearer instructions for the disposal of compostable fruit labels. This initiative aims to ensure consumers can easily manage the end-of-life process for packaging, moving beyond simply stating a material is compostable to providing actionable guidance.

The focus follows the European Union's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which mandates that individual labels applied directly to fruits and vegetables must be industrially compostable across the EU by February 12, 2028.

Research indicates significant consumer confusion regarding disposal; a 2023 U.S. study found up to 49% of consumers struggle to distinguish between ‘compostable’ and ‘biodegradable’ labels. Additionally, data from the United Kingdom suggests that clear, consistent instructions can increase the rate of correct disposal in households by fivefold.