Why Standards Matter in Eco Tableware Imports

The demand for biodegradable and compostable tableware—such as bagasse plates,
cornstarch cutlery, and paper cups—has surged globally. However, not all “eco-friendly” products are genuinely safe or compliant.

For importers and distributors, understanding international standards ensures your products can legally enter the market and meet consumer expectations for sustainability and safety.
These certifications verify everything from raw material safety to composting performance.

1. FDA (Food and Drug Administration) – For the U.S. Market

The FDA standard is essential for eco tableware sold or imported into the United States. It verifies that materials in contact with food are non-toxic and safe for human health.

• Applies to: Plates, cups, cutlery, and packaging that contact food.
• Test Focus: Chemical migration, heavy metals, and food safety.
• Why It Matters: Non-FDA-compliant products can be detained by U.S. Customs.

Jiutong Tableware’s bagasse and cornstarch products are fully FDA-compliant, ensuring safe contact with hot and cold foods.

2. LFGB (Lebensmittel- und Futtermittelgesetzbuch) – For the EU Market

The LFGB certification is the German Food & Commodities Act, widely recognized across the European Union.
It ensures materials do not release harmful substances when in contact with food or beverages.

• Applies to: Any tableware or food packaging item used in the EU.
• Test Focus: Odor, taste neutrality, and migration of heavy metals.
• Why It Matters: Passing LFGB tests guarantees your product meets the strictest EU safety standards.

Jiutong Tableware conducts LFGB testing for all exported products, making them suitable for European supermarkets, catering, and restaurant supply chains.

3. EN13432 – The European Compostability Standard

EN13432 defines the criteria a product must meet to be labeled as “compostable” in Europe.
It’s the gold standard for verifying that packaging or tableware breaks down completely and safely in industrial composting environments.

• Applies to: Compostable packaging, plates, and cutlery.
• Test Focus: Biodegradation, disintegration, and eco-toxicity.
• Why It Matters: Required for any product claiming to be “compostable” in the EU market.

Products certified under EN13432 help brands market responsibly and align with EU sustainability goals.

4. ASTM D6400 – The U.S. Compostability Benchmark

ASTM D6400 is the American equivalent of EN13432. It defines how plastics and bioplastics (like PLA or cornstarch blends) must behave under industrial composting conditions.

• Applies to: PLA-based and cornstarch-based tableware.
• Test Focus: Decomposition rate and non-toxicity of compost residue.
• Why It Matters: Required by U.S. composting facilities and eco labels.

Jiutong’s cornstarch and PLA products meet ASTM D6400, ensuring both performance and environmental integrity.

5. BPI Certification – Verified Compostability in North America

The Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) certification is a trusted third-party label used across the U.S. and Canada.
It confirms that a product meets ASTM D6400 standards and is safe for composting systems.

• Applies to: Biodegradable tableware, packaging, and films.
• Test Focus: Compost system compatibility and eco-toxicity.
• Why It Matters: Recognized by major compost facilities, municipalities, and retailers.

BPI-certified products give buyers and consumers confidence that their tableware won’t contaminate compost streams.

Quick Comparison of Key Standards