The Future of Fruit Labeling Recognised at Home Compostable Label Launch

Following the successful launch of the Sinclair T55, a finished product certified compostable label, at Fruit Attraction and IFPA GPFS. Customer and industry feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Global interest in this innovative solution is surging, with Zespri leading the way as the first adopter, transitioning its label program over the next year.

An opportunity to reduce plastic packaging in the fresh produce industry
Duncan Jones, Senior Marketing Manager, commented, “We are presenting Sinclair – T55 as an environmentally conscious alternative to plastic packaging and conventional plastic labels. The demand for compostable fruit labels is growing and given the variety of shapes and sizes available from 100+ choices, Sinclair T55 fulfils practical consumer and retailer requirements as well as complementing branding and sustainability programs.”

Product stewardship: Why end-of-life performance is key and the focus
Sinclair’s commitment to sustainable packaging solutions is evident in our focus on certified end-of-life performance for compostable products, regardless of material (paper or certified compostable film). We define end-of-life performance as the label’s ability to break down and biodegrade into usable compost within a specific timeframe, whether in home or industrial composting.

By adhering to global composting standards and current legislation, Sinclair-certified compostable fruit labels offer numerous benefits, including:

• Reduced plastic usage: Minimizes reliance on plastic packaging and waste.
• Environmentally conscious: Decomposes into usable natural compost without harming plants or animals.
• Convenient disposal: Can be disposed of in home or industrial compost waste streams without additional processing or mechanical action required
• Safe disintegration: The fruit sticker breaks down and biodegrades within a specified timeframe to become part of usable compost without contamination to the environment.

What’s next for compostable fruit labels?

Knowing that we have a certified compostable fruit label – both industrial and home compostable – is just the first step. There is an ongoing education and awareness campaign that needs to be supported by all industry stakeholders.

Duncan Jones commented; “We (Sinclair) need to ensure all interested parties are aware that certified compostable labels are on the table. Finished product certified compostable fruit labels offer a practical and sustainable packaging solution to decrease packaging volume and reduce plastic waste. Fruit labels will continue to effectively market fresh produce, enhance branding, distinguish products, promote healthy eating, and fulfill retail produce traceability and point of sale needs.”

Navigating the complexities of compostable fruit labels can be challenging. Keep an eye on our LinkedIn channel for Sinclair explainers. These explainers are designed to educate and inform diverse audiences about the advantages of fruit labeling as a sustainable packaging option. We’ll clarify terminology, highlight the importance of certification, and provide insights into the ongoing challenges of developing and adopting certified compostable labels

Join us at Fruit Logistica 2025, Hall 2.1, Stand D-01 or discover more about our home compostable labels.