'We are proud' to announce a significant new partnership that will transform the products available on grocery store shelves.

Two leading packaging companies have joined forces to offer consumers fresher fruits and vegetables while cutting down on plastic usage. Coveris, a European packaging company, and TIPA Compostable Packaging have teamed up to produce home-compostable labels for U.K. produce as part of efforts to reduce plastic waste.

The collaboration responds to growing retailer demand for sustainable packaging and new regulations that require compostable stickers. Coveris chose TIPA's material after evaluating various options, emphasizing that the labels can stick effectively to a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. The film remains flexible and adheres securely even on wet or textured surfaces like apples, citrus, kiwis, and avocados, without compromising its compostable nature.

Conventional produce labels are typically made from plastics derived from fossil fuels. Compostable alternatives help curb plastic pollution, contributing to healthier communities and easing the load on composting facilities.

This partnership adds to a wider trend of corporate initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste, including innovations in biodegradable materials from plant sources and efforts to replace traditional packaging with more sustainable solutions.

"We are proud to collaborate with TIPA to bring a new compostable labeling solution to the fresh produce market," said Will Mercer, Coveris' Paper Business Unit R&D Director. He noted that combining TIPA's materials with Coveris' printing technology created a high-performance label that meets environmental, operational, and legislative requirements.

The labels also help retailers, growers, and packers comply with upcoming regulations mandating compostable produce stickers in regions such as the EU, New Zealand, and Australia. A 2024 study in Environmental Science & Technology highlighted that produce stickers are among the most common contaminants found in composting facilities.

Gary Tee, Vice President of Global Converting at TIPA, explained that the partnership is focused on "eliminating unnecessary plastic from the food system." He added that the home-compostable material offers strong performance and provides brands with a sustainable alternative that prevents conventional labels from entering organic waste streams.

Analysis: The Shift Towards Compostable Labels in the Fresh Produce Industry

The collaboration between Coveris and TIPA Compostable Packaging marks a significant step in reducing plastic waste in the fresh produce sector. With growing awareness about the environmental impact of plastic pollution, this partnership directly addresses the demand for sustainable packaging solutions. By introducing compostable labels for U.K. produce, both companies contribute to a broader movement toward eco-friendly practices in the food industry.

The need for sustainable labeling solutions has intensified due to increasing regulations and public pressure to cut down on single-use plastics. The shift to compostable materials, such as those developed by TIPA, not only helps reduce plastic waste but also aligns with legislative changes, particularly in regions like the EU, New Zealand, and Australia. These regulations mandate that produce labels be compostable, pushing companies to innovate and adopt more sustainable materials.

The decision to use TIPA’s compostable film is based on its ability to adhere to various produce types—whether wet, textured, or irregularly shaped—without compromising its compostability. This solves a major issue with conventional plastic labels, which are typically not biodegradable and contribute significantly to waste in composting facilities. A 2024 study confirmed that produce labels are among the most common contaminants found in composting processes, making the need for compostable alternatives even more pressing.

This partnership also underscores the importance of collaboration in addressing the global plastic waste crisis. By combining Coveris’ printing technology with TIPA’s innovative materials, the companies have created a labeling solution that not only meets operational and environmental requirements but also supports sustainable food systems. As more retailers and packers seek ways to comply with regulations, such initiatives will likely become the norm across the produce industry.

Ultimately, this move represents more than just a change in labeling; it reflects a broader trend toward sustainable, biodegradable packaging options that aim to protect the environment, reduce waste, and promote healthier communities.

Sources:

• Major new partnership will reshape what we see on grocery store shelves: 'We are proud'