Big thanks to Matthew Allen from NSF for joining the show as we talk about certifications and what they mean for us in packaging!
Key Takeaways (The Juicy Stuff):
The Origins of Safety: NSF started 80 years ago (around the 1940s) out of a need to create scientifically-backed standards for new public consumption—think soda fountains, public swimming pools, and the rise of mass food processing. It all started with simple standards that are now the bedrock of safety regulations.
Safety & Sustainability Are Linked: This is the core theme. The drive to make packaging lighter (for a smaller transport carbon footprint) immediately challenges the original food safety testing and compliance that was based on thicker, older materials. Every change in packaging material requires re-testing to ensure it’s still safe and effective.
The Global Compliance Nightmare (and how NSF helps): As supply chains globalize, a product’s packaging has to comply with different regulations and standards in Texas, Germany, and Kuala Lumpur. NSF provides the testing, certification, and advisory services to navigate this complex, ever-changing landscape of national and international standards.
The Microplastics Connection: NSF’s focus extends to the interaction of materials with food and health, touching on hot topics like microplastics originating from materials like kitchen cutting boards—showing just how deep their mandate goes.
The Complicated Reality of Compostability: We hit on the difficulty of certifying what is truly “home compostable” for a hobby farmer like Matthew versus what works in a suburban setting. We also discussed the challenge for commercial composting facilities that may not want packaging, even if it’s certified, as it can degrade the quality of their final compost product.
Why You See the NSF Mark: The NSF logo is a mark of trust—often seen on kitchen equipment, water filters, and food containers—mandated by elevated safety standards in food service and retail to ensure material quality and sanitation.
Guest Info & Call to Action:
Guest: Matthew Allen, Global Managing Director of Consulting, Training, and Sustainability at NSF (NSF.org).
Connect: If you’re a food packaging pro, you need to understand the standards that govern your industry. Check out NSF.org and connect with Matthew to keep your compliance game tight.
P.S. We might have another episode on the future of compostable packaging soon!
