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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Alterpacks different from other “eco” packaging?

 

Many “eco” alternatives still come with compromises:

  • Biodegradable plastics: may take years to break down and can leave behind harmful microplastics.
  • Compostable (industrial only): most packaging labelled “compostable” requires industrial facilities with high heat and controlled conditions — not accessible in many places.
  • Home compostable: the gold standard, where products break down naturally in a backyard compost within months, returning as safe, nutrient-rich organic matter for soil.

Alterpacks is certified home compostable. Made from 100% plant fibre with no plastic, coating, or chemical additives, it decomposes safely in 4–6 months — while also withstanding freezing, microwaving, and oven heating up to 260 °C.

What makes Alterpacks different from other “eco” packaging? Show Less
Is Alterpacks really home compostable?

Yes. Alterpacks products naturally break down in a home compost within 4–6 months, turning into compost that enriches soil. Even if landfilled or incinerated, they won’t leach harmful substances like plastics do.

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What happens if Alterpacks products are incinerated, like in Singapore?

In markets such as Singapore, most waste is incinerated in waste-to-energy plants rather than composted. When incinerated, Alterpacks products offer a clear environmental advantage:

  • Made entirely from natural plant fibre, they emit up to 80% less CO than plastics. (verified by TÜV Rheinland under ISO 14067:2018).
  • They release no toxic chemicals such as PFAS, BPA, or phthalates.

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What certifications does Alterpacks have?

 

Alterpacks products are certified food-safe and compostable internationally:

  • Australia: AS 4736 (commercial composting), AS 5810 (home composting)
  • Europe: DIN CERTCO (7W0632, 9K0249, 9R055) – industrial & home compostable; ISO 18606:2013, ISO 17088:2012
  • USA: FDA 21 CFR 175.300, 176.170 (food contact safe)
  • Japan: JFRL (Japan Food Research Laboratories) – food contact safe
  • Singapore: SFA approved – food contact safe
  • Life Cycle Analysis: TÜV Rheinland (ISO 14067:2018) – CO footprint verified

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Can Alterpacks create custom designs?

Yes. Alterpacks can develop custom shapes and sizes to suit your needs. Minimum order quantities (MOQs) and development timelines apply, so please contact us to discuss your project.

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Karen Cheah

Founder and CEO

Karen Cheah, Founder and CEO of AlterPacks, channels her 20+ years as an international award-winning journalist and creative strategist into revolutionizing sustainable materials. Driven by a passion to alleviate waste-burdened communities, she leveraged her extensive network to pioneer AlterPacks, a Singapore-based startup transforming food by-products and agricultural waste to replace unsustainable materials such as plastics and aluminium. A National University of Singapore alumna with degrees in Mathematics and History, and a Dean’s List MSc (Innovation) graduate from Singapore Management University, Karen’s unique blend of analytical and creative expertise fuels AlterPacks’ mission to create impactful, eco-friendly solutions.