Compostable Fruit Stickers: NATIVIA® D822 Meets New PPWR Requirements
Market Background
With the evolution of European regulations, in particular the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), the requirements for food packaging are becoming increasingly stringent.
Particularly for the fruit and vegetable sector, from 12 February 2028, adhesive labels applied directly to fruit and vegetables will be considered packaging and must be compostable in industrial composting facilities, with the faculty of each Member State to request the conformity with the home composting standards. This means that traditional polyethylene or polypropylene labels will have to be replaced by certified materials capable of biodegrading under specific conditions without leaving plastic residues.
The Challenge
The main objective was to develop a next-generation film capable of replacing conventional fossil-based fruit stickers with a material that would:
- be compostable in industrial composting facilities
- allow to avoid contamination of compost
- integrate easily into existing production lines without major adjustments
- guarantee print quality and customisation
The Solution
Taghleef Industries responded with the launch of NATIVIA® D822, the world’s first-ever biaxially oriented PHA-based film produced on an industrial scale.
Used in this specific case for fruit stickers, this pioneering solution offers:
- Naturally sourced polymer composition;
- Designed for home compostability, supporting circular end-of-life solutions
- Alignment with PPWR, enabling replacement of applications requiring industrial compostability with home-compostable alternatives, subject to Member State discretion
- Flexographic print compatibility, offering optimal technical and graphic performance
Conclusion
NATIVIA® D822 is more than a new film – it is a milestone for the packaging industry. As one of the first solutions designed for home compostability produced at industrial scale, it enables fruit and vegetable brands to meet PPWR requirements for compostable stickers, while ensuring product safety, performance, and market-ready reliability.
With NATIVIA® D822, Taghleef Industries takes a decisive step in supporting customers on their sustainability journey and advancing the transition toward a Circular Economy.
