TIPA, together with its European subsidiary Bio4Pack, has introduced a certified home-compostable label for fresh produce.
The label, developed in collaboration with adhesives supplier Bio4Life, is designed for a wide range of fruits and vegetables and aims to address one of the most persistent contaminants in compost: conventional plastic produce stickers.
The labels are moisture-resistant, pressure-sensitive, and adhere to both smooth and rough produce surfaces without leaving residue. They are certified food-safe for direct application and can be applied by machine or hand on conventional label printing presses.
“Labels on fresh produce have traditionally been made from conventional plastic that cannot be recycled and are often discarded in food waste bins, contaminating organic streams and contributing to microplastic pollution,” said Daphna Nissenbaum, co-founder and CEO of TIPA.
“Policies requiring compostable labels are emerging around the world, and TIPA is leading the way with a solution that will break down with the organic matter it's attached to without compromising on performance.”
The adhesive used, BioTAK from Bio4Life, is fully certified to European compost standards and leaves no residue.
TIPA said the new label complements its wider compostable packaging portfolio for fresh produce, including films that can run on existing production lines.