Question 1

How do I verify a certification?

Accepted Answer

Every certification comes with a certificate number and issuing body. Contact us with your NDA/CDA in place and we'll provide the full certificate, audit report, and chain-of-custody documentation for your compliance team to review.

Question 2

What is a DMF and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

A Drug Master File (DMF) is a confidential submission to the FDA describing facilities, processes, or materials used in manufacturing. DMF Type III covers packaging materials. Having an active DMF means pharmaceutical customers can reference it in their ANDA/NDA filings, saving 6-12 months of supplier qualification.

Question 3

Are certifications valid globally?

Accepted Answer

FDA and ASTM are US-focused but recognized globally. ISO, FSC, GRS, and ISCC are international standards. EN 13432 is EU-specific. EU PPWR is EU regulation. We maintain certifications for all major markets: North America, EU, and Middle East.

Question 4

How often are certifications renewed?

Accepted Answer

ISO certifications are audited annually with full recertification every 3 years. FSC is audited annually. FDA DMF is updated as materials change. GRS and ISCC PLUS are audited annually. All certificates are current and active.

Question 5

What does BPI-certified compostable mean?

Accepted Answer

It means the product meets ASTM D6400 (or D6868 for coated items) and is listed in the BPI certified product directory for industrial composting — not home backyard bins unless separately certified. Always confirm your municipality or hauler accepts industrial compost streams.

Question 6

Are BPI compostable bags really compostable?

Accepted Answer

They compost completely only in industrial facilities at the temperatures BPI tests specify. They must not go in curbside recycling — contamination fines are common. Verify the finished pouch (not just film) on bpiworld.org before marketing claims.

Question 7

What is the difference between compostable and biodegradable packaging?

Accepted Answer

Compostable (BPI/ASTM D6400) has a defined end-of-life: ≥90% breakdown in industrial compost within 180 days. Biodegradable has no US standard timeline — it is a marketing term. Eco-friendly is weaker still; ask for certification numbers.

Question 8

Does BPI certification mean home compostable?

Accepted Answer

Usually no. Most BPI food-service items are industrial compost only. BPI has expanded home-compost categories — check the specific SKU listing and label before claiming backyard compostable (as of 2026-05).

Question 9

What is the difference between compostable and biodegradable packaging?

Accepted Answer

Compostable (BPI/ASTM D6400) requires breakdown in industrial compost within 180 days. Biodegradable has no US standard timeline. See our full comparison: /blog/compostable-vs-biodegradable-packaging

Certifications You Can Trust.<br/>No Greenwashing. No Vague Claims.

Questions About Our Certifications

Need certification documentation for your compliance team?

Design in minutes. Produce at scale.