The starting point
A material name is a starting point. Match the exact product, formulation, destination and intended use to the supporting documents. Bio-based content, biodegradability and compostability describe different things.
Read the material that is actually recorded.
| Term | Meaning here | Buyer action |
|---|---|---|
| PE | Polyethylene; recorded for the bag, cover and PE film entries. | Confirm the grade and formulation. A PE label alone does not identify HDPE or LDPE. |
| HDPE / LDPE | High-density / low-density polyethylene; options for a custom discussion. | Request the proposed material specification; do not assign a grade to a catalogue SKU without confirmation. |
| PVC | Polyvinyl chloride; recorded for four 400 yd film entries. | Request PVC-specific documents and intended-use conditions. |
| Bio-based | A description of feedstock origin, not proof of a particular disposal outcome. | Ask for composition, claimed percentage and the evidence supporting it. |
Separate environmental claims.
A bio-based plastic can be non-biodegradable. Biodegradation depends on the material and environment; compostable claims involve defined conditions and evidence. Do not treat an ordinary PE catalogue entry as compostable because a custom bio-based option is available.
For a proposed claim, ask which exact product and formulation were assessed, the test or certification scope, the claimed disposal conditions and the relevant destination-market requirements. The European Commission's explanation of these terms is a useful starting point.
Describe the intended food-contact conditions.
Provide the destination country, food type, contact time, temperature and whether the product is intended for heating, freezing or another special use. Ask for applicable product-specific compliance documents and test reports for those conditions.
The catalogue does not establish a universal microwave, freezer or food-contact approval. For a market-specific decision, have the proposed documentation assessed against the requirements that apply to your product and use.
Check the document scope against the product.
The supplied ISO 9001 certificate relates to a quality management system. The supplied Chinese production-licence attachment names PE cling film, PE food storage bags and PE gloves. Neither should be read as proof that every listed product meets every destination's requirements.
For PVC film, ask for the applicable material-specific evidence. For all products, confirm the current status of the document and that the manufacturer and product match. Review the supplied certificates and scope.
Relevant product ranges
Sources & scope
- Supplier catalogue and information policy
- Supplied certificate scans
- European Commission: bio-based, biodegradable and compostable plastics
This guide combines supplier catalogue facts with general procurement guidance. It does not report independent product testing or grant a product approval. Request a correction or supporting document.