Compostable vs Recyclable Food Packaging: Which Is Better for Your Businesses?

When it comes to takeaway packaging, “eco-friendly” can mean many things. You’ve probably seen labels like compostable, biodegradable, or recyclable on product listings for food boxes and cups, but what do they actually mean for your business and your waste bins?

Let’s take a closer look at what each option really offers and how to decide which one makes the most sense for your business.

♻️ Recyclable Packaging: The Familiar Route

Recyclable packaging is designed to go through the existing recycling system. This includes materials like paper, cardboard, or plastics such as PET and HDPE. When disposed of properly, these can be turned into new products instead of ending up in the landfill.

Pros:

• Accepted by most local councils.

• Familiar to customers who already know how to recycle.

• Often a more affordable option for businesses.

Cons:

• Food contamination, such as leftover sauces or oils, can make packaging unrecyclable.

• Paper packaging with plastic lining (like coffee cups or some food boxes) is often rejected because the layers are hard to separate.

• Best for: Cold foods, dry snacks, or packaging that’s less likely to get messy, like salad boxes or deli cups.

🌱 Compostable Containers: The New Generation of Eco Takeaway Boxes

Compostable containers are made from renewable, plant-based materials such as bagasse (a by-product of sugarcane), PLA bioplastics, or cornstarch. Instead of being recycled, these break down into organic matter under the right composting conditions.

Pros:

• Perfect for food-soiled items that can’t go in the recycling bin.

• Made from renewable materials that reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

• Break down completely without leaving microplastics when processed correctly.

Cons:

• Industrial composting isn’t available everywhere.

• Compostables need to be separated from regular recycling to avoid contamination.

• Customers may not have the proper knowledge to dispose of correctly

The Waste Stream Reality Check

Your packaging is only as sustainable as the system it ends up in.

Recycling and composting options vary depending on the council. Some areas have access to industrial composting facilities that can handle compostable takeaway packaging, while others don’t accept it at all.

If your local collection doesn’t include food or compostable waste, recyclable packaging may actually be the greener option. However, if your business works with a commercial waste service such as First Mile, Veolia, or Simply Waste, compostables can be processed properly and turned into organic matter. In that case, compostable containers can be a strong choice.

So, Which Option Is Better?

The right choice depends on three things:

Your location: Check what your local waste provider can handle.

Your menu: Foods that are oily, saucy, or messy often do better in compostable containers.

Your customers: If you manage disposal on-site, compostables are easier to control responsibly.

For many food businesses, a mix of both works best. Recyclable packaging is ideal for clean, dry foods, while compostable containers shine for takeaway dishes that can’t avoid a bit of mess.

🌍 A Practical Way Forward

At Element Packaging, we supply both compostable and recyclable eco takeaway packaging, helping businesses find the perfect balance between sustainability and practicality.

Whether you’re serving salads, soups, or street food, we can help you choose packaging that fits your waste setup and your brand values.

Explore our full range of compostable and recyclable options at myelement.co.uk

 and make your next packaging choice a smarter one for your business and the planet.