The Rise of Compostable Food Packaging in the UK

As the UK reckons with plastic waste, businesses across the food service sector are rethinking packaging from the ground up. Compostable food packaging isn’t just a sustainable alternative anymore, it’s becoming the industry standard.

From high street cafés to national chains, operators are turning to certified compostables to reduce their environmental impact and stay ahead of regulations. And with infrastructure improving and consumer demand stronger than ever, the shift is no longer optional, it’s strategic.

A Rapidly Growing Market

The UK compostable packaging market was valued at approximately $6 million in 2024 and is projected to reach $8.8 million by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.9%, according to Grand View Research.

Meanwhile, the broader sustainable packaging sector is forecast to reach $18.7 billion by 2033. These figures suggest a clear direction: packaging that works with nature is no longer niche, it’s mainstreaming fast.

Composting Infrastructure: More Ready Than You Think

One of the biggest misconceptions around compostable packaging is that the infrastructure isn’t there. But that’s changing quickly.

As of 2024, 24 industrial composting facilities in the UK accept certified compostable packaging. These facilities are accredited by REAL/CCS, ensuring that food-contact items like Biofuture’s products meet the rigorous conditions required for safe, efficient breakdown.

Despite this progress, most sustainable packaging still ends up in the wrong bin. A 2023 study found that just 1 in 400 disposable takeaway cups are properly processed in the UK. That’s not a failure of the material, it’s a failure of collection systems and labelling. Brands that bridge this gap stand to lead the pack.

Policy and Public Pressure Are Building

The legislative landscape is rapidly shifting in favour of compostables. The Plastic Packaging Tax, combined with bans on single-use plastic items, creates both a push and pull: businesses are penalised for plastic use and rewarded (via lower taxes and public goodwill) for switching to sustainable alternatives.

But the strongest pressure is cultural. According to a YouGov poll in 2023, 89% of UK adults support collecting compostables alongside food waste. More tellingly, 60% said they are actively concerned about the amount of plastic packaging in their homes. If you’re not offering compostable options, you risk alienating the majority of your customer base.

What Counts as Compostable?

It’s not enough to label something "eco." For packaging to be truly compostable in the UK, it must disintegrate by 90% within 3 months and fully biodegrade within 6 months under industrial composting conditions.

Biofuture’s entire product range is certified to the most stringent global standards, including TÜV Austria, BPI, and DIN CERTCO. That means it’s not just compostable in theory, but in practice, in real-world UK composting environments.

What’s in the Biofuture Range?

We focus on products that combine performance with sustainability. From heat-resistant trays to transparent drink cups, our packaging is built to work with UK food service logistics, and with the waste streams that already exist.

Our bestsellers include:

• PLA cups and lids for both hot and cold drinks

• PLA + PBAT cling film, ideal for food wrapping and made from plant oils

• Fibre and bagasse takeaway boxes, perfect for takeaways and heat retention

• Certified compostable bin liners designed for mixed food and packaging waste

Each product supports smoother integration with food waste collection services, helping both compliance and environmental outcomes.

Why UK Operators Are Making the Switch

Food businesses aren’t switching to compostables just to look good. They're doing it because it works.

Operators across the UK, from Bristol’s street-food scene to independent cafés in Harlow report:

• Easier alignment with waste legislation

• Increased customer trust and loyalty

• Better suitability for food waste bin schemes

• A modern, minimal aesthetic that reflects their brand values

For many, it’s also about future-proofing: preparing for legislation and consumer expectations that are only moving in one direction.

Solving the Systemic Challenges

Two barriers continue to limit wider adoption: confusing labelling and inadequate bin infrastructure. At Biofuture, we’ve built partnerships to tackle both.

We work with waste management partners like Grundon Waste to help our customers set up effective composting streams. We also provide clear, compliant signage and customer-facing education materials because packaging only works when it’s disposed of properly.

What’s Next for the UK Compostables Industry?

Innovation is moving fast. Researchers and manufacturers are now experimenting with new innovations like seaweed-based materials, freshness-sensing packaging, and edible films and dissolvable wraps.

At Biofuture, we stay ahead of the curve, investing in smart packaging, circular design, and partnerships that help us bring tomorrow’s materials to market today.

Why Biofuture?

We're more than a supplier. We're your strategic partner for compostable packaging in the UK.

• UK-based with UK-certified products

• Trees planted for every order

• Onboarding support, infrastructure advice, and signage

• Community-led initiatives like local litter picks and zero-waste workshops

• Committed to innovation that keeps you ahead of the competition

Want to Take the First Step?

Explore our collection of certified compostable food-service packaging and kitchen essentials. Whether you’re looking to switch out one product line or overhaul your entire packaging setup, we’re here to help you do it responsibly, affordably, and with real impact.

Let’s lead the change in UK food service, one compostable cup at a time.