End-of-life Alternatives of the Compostable Fiber-based Packaging Materials for Foodservice

In Europe, regulatory frameworks such as the Single-Use Plastics Directive and Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation have reshaped the responsibilities of producers through mechanisms like Extended Producer Responsibility. These frameworks have reshaped the packaging and food industries by promoting circular material use and environmental performance. Therefore, there has been a growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions to enhance the transition from conventional plastics to fiber-based materials for foodservice packaging materials. A comprehensive literature review was carried out. A qualitative scoping review, complemented by a systematic literature review, was used to explore and consolidate existing knowledge. The objective was to review the insights on end-of-life options for compostable fiber-based foodservice packaging materials. End-of-life pathways for fiber-based foodservice packaging were studied with a particular focus on compostable grades. The review examined how European policies and the regulatory framework reshape producer obligations through Extended Producer Responsibility. Compatibility of compostable fiber-based packaging with industrial composting and anaerobic digestion, especially when mechanical recycling is restricted because of food contamination was reviewed. Although fiber-based packaging has been often considered preferable to plastics, due to renewable feedstocks and potential compostability, its environmental and economic performance largely depends on end-of-life management and alignment with regulatory frameworks. Findings indicated that effective end-of-life alternatives are critical to delivering environmental benefits through resource recovery (biogas, compost) and to avoid landfills or incineration. The need for early-stage design that anticipates end-of-life alternatives, harmonized standards, clear consumer guidance, and cross supply chain collaboration is required. Overall, the sustainability performance of fiber-based foodservice packaging is contingent on robust end-of-life infrastructure, regulatory clarity, and materials innovation that maintains food safety while enabling high quality recovery.