Compostable Product Greenwashing Investigation

Migliaccio & Rathod LLP is investigating reports that certain consumer products advertised as a compostable product is, in fact, not compostable after normal use, misleading environmentally conscious consumers and raising serious concerns about greenwashing and false environmental advertising.

Misleading Compostable Product Labelling

From 2023 to 2025, a wide range of disposable goods, including face towels, wipes, and other personal care products, have been sold across the United States with prominent “compostable” claims displayed on product packaging and in marketing campaigns. These claims led consumers to believe that the products could safely break down in home or municipal composting systems after use.

However, investigations reveal that when these products are used as intended—for instance, with facial cleansers, makeup removers, oils, or balms—they become contaminated in ways that make them non-compostable. In some cases, not only do the used products fail to decompose, but they also risk:

• Contaminating entire compost piles

• Releasing harmful chemicals into soil

• Undermining environmental sustainability goals

Lack of Disclaimers

Manufacturers have failed to include clear disclaimers on the front label or marketing materials to inform consumers that their products may not be compostable after normal use. As a result, consumers—many of whom are seeking eco-friendly or zero-waste alternatives—have paid a premium price under the false belief that they were buying sustainable products.

These misleading representations are especially harmful to individuals striving to reduce their environmental impact, only to later find that their efforts were compromised by deceptive labeling.

Are you concerned that you might be affected by this?

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