Cost of Plastic Food Packaging
across the UK

# Plastic Food Packaging Accreditation Guide

The primary regulatory framework governing plastic food packaging in the UK is set by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and adherence to British Standards such as BS EN 13432 for compostable packaging, alongside compliance with the Plastic Regulations under retained EU law. Key trade bodies include the British Plastics Federation (BPF), which represents manufacturers and promotes responsible practices, and the Packaging Technology and Research (PTR) scheme, which certifies packaging compliance with food contact regulations. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) also influences packaging standards through its supply chain requirements. Understanding these bodies helps you identify providers who meet stringent safety and environmental standards, ensuring that any plastic packaging complies with food safety legislation and has been properly tested for migration of harmful substances.

Verifying a provider's accreditation involves requesting copies of relevant certifications, checking against official registers maintained by the FSA and certification bodies, and confirming that any claimed compliance is current and specific to your intended use. Most reputable suppliers will display credentials on their websites or provide them upon request; you can cross-reference these with the BPF's member directory or by contacting certification bodies directly. This verification matters because unauthorised or outdated accreditation could indicate non-compliance with food contact materials regulations, exposing your business to regulatory action, product recalls, and reputational damage. A provider holding genuine third-party certification demonstrates that their products and processes have been independently assessed and audited.

Accredited plastic food packaging providers typically charge 10–25% more than unaccredited suppliers, reflecting the costs of compliance testing, documentation, ongoing audits, and liability insurance. While this premium is noticeably higher, it usually represents good value because accredited providers reduce your compliance risk, help you meet retailer requirements, and offer documented evidence of food safety—avoiding far costlier