Inspection of packaging and disposable items

Safe materials, reliable quality – we test packaging and disposable products for conformity and material quality.

The requirements for modern packaging and disposable products are constantly increasing – whether due to legal requirements, environmental standards or consumer protection guidelines. DEKRA (formerly K-Labor) supports manufacturers, importers and retailers with well-founded tests for quality, safety and material conformity.

Testing of packaging

Our test laboratories examine packaging made of plastic, paper, cardboard, composite materials and bio-based alternatives for numerous technical and regulatory criteria. Typical questions:

• Strength of packaging

Whether transport packaging, primary or secondary packaging – we test mechanical properties such as compressive strength, tear resistance and puncture resistance in accordance with DIN, EN and ISO standards.

• Tightness of packaging

For products with liquid, gaseous or free-flowing contents, we test the tightness and leak-tightness of closures, seals and containers under defined conditions.

• Material properties of packaging

We analyze material characteristics such as thickness, basis weight, hardness, flexibility and thermal and chemical resistance – including for sustainable materials such as PLA, cellulose or cardboard composites.

• Food contact testing

Packaging materials that come into contact with food are subject to strict regulations (e.g. EU 10/2011). Our tests include specific and global migration values as well as sensory tests.

• Determination of the packaging material and structure

Using the latest analytical methods (e.g. FTIR, DSC, microtome section, SEM), we identify the materials, coatings and multilayer structures used to ensure declaration and recyclability.

Material qualification of disposable items

Disposable products such as cutlery, plates, straws and stirrers have been subject to strict legal restrictions since July 2021. This is based on

• the EU Directive (EU) 2019/904 on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment (“Single-Use Plastics Directive” – SUPD)
• the Single-Use Plastics Prohibition Ordinance (EWKVerbotsV) in Germany

We check whether your products meet these requirements and do not contain any banned plastics.

Our services at a glance:

• Material identification and classification

Verification of the absence of plastics or determination of the polymer type for questionable materials – e.g. PLA, PP, PE or bioplastics – using FTIR or thermal analysis.

• Testing for plastic content in accordance with the EWKVerbotsV

We help to clarify whether a product is completely plastic-free or falls under the regulation. This applies, for example, to coated paper or compostable polymers.

• Proof of conformity and test reports

Documentation for submission to authorities, customers or retail chains. On request, also with a legally compliant declaration of conformity.

Your advantages with DEKRA

• Accredited test procedures in accordance with DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025
• Laboratories with the best technical equipment for packaging and environmental testing
• Fast processing, individual advice and legally compliant expert opinions
• Support in switching to sustainable packaging alternatives

Would you like to have your packaging or disposable items tested?

Contact us for a non-binding offer or a personal consultation.

FAQ