Biodegradable and Compostable Labels

Biodegradable labels are a type of labelling material designed to break down naturally over time, returning to the environment as harmless elements. Unlike conventional labels, which may persist in landfills or the natural environment for extended periods, biodegradable labels decompose within a relatively short timeframe. These labels are crafted from materials such as corn starch, sugarcane, or cellulose, which are capable of breaking down completely and safely. Biodegradable labels offer an eco-friendly alternative for businesses committed to sustainability, without compromising on quality or functionality.

Biodegradableand compostable are often used incorrectly and interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings, particularly when it comes to labels and stickers.

Biodegradable Labels:

Biodegradable labels are designed to break down naturally over time into basic elements like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. However, the time it takes for these labels to fully decompose can vary, and there is no guarantee that they will break down into elements that are beneficial to the soil.

Compostable Labels:

Compostable labels go a step further. They not only break down but also decompose into nutrient-rich soil within a specific time frame, usually within 90 to 180 days, under specific composting conditions. Compostable labels are often certified to meet specific standards, such as DIN EN 13432 in Europe, which ensures that they are both biodegradable and leave no toxic residue.

At Labelservice, we offer both biodegradable and compostable stickers. Our compostable labels are crafted from materials like NatureFlex™, which is certified to meet stringent compostability standards. On the other hand, our biodegradable labels, made from materials like Sugar Cane, are designed to break down naturally over time.

Recycled, recyclable, and biodegradable labels serve distinct sustainability goals. Recycled labels are made from waste materials, reducing the need for new resources. Recyclable labels can be processed into new products, contributing to a circular economy. However, their effectiveness depends on local recycling facilities. Biodegradable labels, on the other hand, are engineered to naturally decompose into harmless elements. At Labelservice, we offer biodegradable labels made from Sugar Cane and NatureFlex™, compliant with various environmental standards, as well as recycled and recyclable options. Each type has its own merits and limitations, and the optimal choice will hinge on your business’s specific sustainability objectives.

At Labelservice, we utilise a range of materials and adhesives to produce high-quality biodegradable labels. For the substrate, we commonly use Sugar Cane and NatureFlex™ films, both of which are designed to break down naturally over time. As for the adhesive, we employ a special formulation that is compliant with European food regulation 1935/2004/EC, making it suitable for direct food contact. Additionally, our adhesive complies with DIN EN 13432 biodegradability and compostability regulations and is OK compost-certified under the tracking number S259. This ensures that our biodegradable labels not only adhere effectively to your products but also meet stringent environmental standards.

Labelservice takes great pride in offering biodegradable labels that adhere to the highest environmental and safety standards. Our labels are fully compliant with DIN EN 13432, the European regulation governing biodegradability and compostability. This ensures that our labels decompose into natural elements like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass within a specified period under appropriate conditions.

Moreover, the adhesive used in our biodegradable stickers is not only compliant with DIN EN 13432 but also meets the European food regulation 1935/2004/EC for direct food contact. It has received OK compost certification under the tracking number S259, further attesting to its environmental credentials.

Our labels are crafted using sustainable materials such as Sugar Cane and NatureFlex™, both of which are certified for their biodegradable and compostable properties.

Dissolvable labels and biodegradable labels are not necessarily the same, although they both offer environmental benefits. Dissolvable labels are designed to disintegrate quickly when exposed to water, making them ideal for temporary applications such as food container labelling. However, the rate at which they break down in a natural environment may vary, and they may leave behind adhesive residues that are not biodegradable.

In contrast, biodegradable labels from Labelservice are specifically engineered to break down into natural elements within a set period under composting conditions. The adhesive used in our biodegradable labels is compliant with European food regulation 1935/2004/EC and DIN EN 13432 biodegradability and compostability standards. Therefore, while dissolvable labels offer the convenience of easy removal, they may not meet the stringent criteria for biodegradability that our labels do.

Paper labels can be biodegradable, but it’s essential to consider the type of paper and adhesive used. Standard paper labels with conventional adhesives may not be fully biodegradable. However, at Labelservice, we offer paper labels specifically designed to be biodegradable. These labels are crafted from sustainably sourced paper and are paired with a biodegradable adhesive that is compliant with European food regulation 1935/2004/EC and DIN EN 13432 biodegradability and compostability standards. This ensures that our paper labels not only serve their functional purpose but also align with environmental considerations.