Cost of Food Packaging Containers
across the UK

# Food Packaging Containers Accreditation Section

In the UK, food packaging containers are primarily governed by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and must comply with the Food Contact Materials Regulations, which transpose EU legislation. Key trade bodies relevant to this sector include the British Plastics Federation (BPF), which represents manufacturers and promotes best practice in plastic packaging, and the Institute of Packaging (IOP), the professional body for packaging specialists that offers certification and continuing professional development. Some suppliers may also hold certification under the Quality Management System ISO 9001 or specific food safety schemes such as BRC (British Retail Consortium) accreditation, which demonstrates rigorous quality control and compliance with food safety standards. Understanding which accreditations a provider holds is important because these bodies set and enforce standards for material safety, hygiene, traceability, and environmental responsibility.

To verify a provider's accreditation, check their membership status on the relevant trade body website—the BPF, IOP, and BSI (British Standards Institution) all maintain publicly searchable registers or member lists. Ask the provider directly for copies of their certification documents and the accreditation number, and confirm the accreditation is current and not expired. You can also check whether they hold FSA registration as a food business operator and whether they have passed any relevant audits; reputable providers will display this information transparently or provide it on request. This verification matters because it confirms the provider operates under independent oversight, follows statutory food safety requirements, and has systems in place to handle complaints or issues professionally.

Accredited food packaging providers typically charge a premium compared to unaccredited suppliers, sometimes 5 to 15 percent higher depending on the accreditation level and complexity of the work. This premium reflects genuine costs: maintaining certification requires regular audits, staff training, documented processes, and compliance monitoring, all of which protect both the provider