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Restricted claim

“Bio-based”

Is “Bio-based” allowed under the EU Green Claims Directive (2024/825)?

Medium-risk claim Material & composition

Why it is restricted

Bio-based says where the carbon came from, not that the product is compostable, recyclable or lower impact — yet consumers read all three into it.

Say this instead

"72% bio-based carbon content, measured to EN 16785-1. Not compostable."

In English

  • “biobasiert”
  • “biosourcé”
  • “biogebaseerd”
  • “de base biológica”
  • “di origine biologica”
  • “biopõhine”
  • “biopohjainen”
  • “biobaserad”

Legal basis

Directive 2005/29/EC, Annex I point 4a, inserted by Directive 2024/825 (generic environmental claim without demonstrated recognised excellent environmental performance)

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Related claims

“Biodegradable” High-risk claim “Compostable” Medium-risk claim “Recyclable” Medium-risk claim “Recycled” Medium-risk claim “Organic” Medium-risk claim “Plastic-free” Medium-risk claim

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