Cost of Plastic Food Packaging
across the UK

# Plastic Food Packaging Accreditation Guide

When sourcing plastic food packaging in the UK, it's important to understand the main regulatory frameworks and accreditation bodies that govern this sector. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) sets baseline safety requirements, while the British Plastics Federation (BPF) represents manufacturers and provides industry guidance on materials and sustainability standards. Additionally, many suppliers seek certification under the Responsible Packaging Manufacturers (RPM) scheme or comply with BRC Global Standards, which cover food safety, quality management and supply chain integrity. Compliance with the Waste and Contaminated Land (Northern Ireland) Order and the Environmental Protection Act is also essential, particularly regarding recyclability and packaging waste obligations. Understanding these frameworks helps you identify providers who take food safety, legal compliance and environmental responsibility seriously.

Verifying a provider's accreditation is straightforward and essential before placing orders. Most reputable plastic packaging suppliers will prominently display their certifications on their website, often with direct links to verify credentials with the issuing body. You should check certification status directly with the BPF, BRC, or relevant standards body rather than relying solely on claims made by the supplier. Ask potential providers for copies of current certificates, accreditation numbers and expiry dates, and confirm they hold appropriate liability insurance. This matters because accredited suppliers have undergone independent audits, maintain documented quality controls and are bound by codes of conduct that protect you in the event of contamination, regulatory breaches or product failures.

Accredited plastic food packaging suppliers typically charge 5–15% more than non-accredited competitors, though this varies by material type, volume and specification. This premium reflects the costs of maintaining certifications, regular audits, quality assurance procedures and compliance documentation. However, the additional expense usually represents good value: accredited providers reduce your legal and reputational risk if packaging fails food safety standards