What Does Biodegradable Mean?
Biodegradable materials are substances that can be broken down by naturally occurring microorganisms (such as bacteria and fungi) into basic elements like carbon dioxide, water, and biomass. This process mimics nature’s recycling system, where organic matter decays and returns to the ecosystem.
Key Characteristics:
- Broad definition: Almost any material that eventually breaks down can be labeled as biodegradable — including some plastics.
- No time limit: Biodegradation might take weeks, years, or even centuries depending on the environment and material.
- Unregulated term: There is no universal standard or timeline attached to the word “biodegradable.”
- Environmental risk: Some so-called biodegradable materials may fragment into microplastics rather than fully degrading.
Real-World Example:
A plastic bag labeled “biodegradable” may still take decades to break down in a landfill without oxygen or proper microbial activity.
Industrial Packaging Example:
Many packaging films labeled biodegradable, such as oxo-degradable polyethylene, are used in foodservice or product shipping. However, these materials often require specific UV and oxygen conditions to degrade, which are rarely present in landfill or ocean environments. As a result, they can persist and fragment into microplastics, causing environmental harm under the guise of green labeling. Read why biodegradable plastics may do more harm than good.
What Does Compostable Mean?
Compostable materials are a subset of biodegradable materials, designed to break down under specific conditions to produce non-toxic, nutrient-rich compost. These materials must degrade completely within a defined time frame and leave no harmful residue.
Key Characteristics:
- Strictly defined: Requires specific heat, moisture, oxygen, and microbial activity to decompose.
- Time-bound: Industrial composting standards usually require breakdown within 90 to 180 days.
- Certified: Must meet standards such as ASTM D6400 (USA) or EN13432 (EU).
- Zero toxicity: Leaves behind only compost that enriches soil.
Learn more about compostable materials from the EPA.
Common Compostable Materials:
- Bagasse (sugarcane fiber)
- Cornstarch bioplastics
- Paper products without plastic linings
- Food scraps and yard waste
Watch how compostable packaging breaks down into soil — visualized in this 60-second animation.
Key Differences: Biodegradable vs. Compostable
| Feature | Biodegradable | Compostable |
|---|
| Definition | Breaks down via microbes | Breaks down into compost |
| Timeframe | Undefined (varies greatly) | 90–180 days (regulated) |
| End Product | May leave residue | Produces usable compost |
| Certification | Rare or inconsistent | ASTM D6400, EN13432 required |
| Conditions Needed | Any environment (may take long) | Controlled composting environment |
Summary: All compostable materials are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable materials are compostable.
Why “Biodegradable” Can Be Misleading
Biodegradable sounds eco-friendly, but the term is often misused. Many “biodegradable” plastics only break down under ideal conditions — like high heat industrial composting — and still leave microplastic particles.
Examples of Greenwashing:
- PLA straws advertised as biodegradable but do not break down in home composts.
- Bio-plastic bags that persist in landfills for years.
See how greenwashing confuses sustainability goals.
The Case for Compostable Packaging in Foodservice
For the food packaging industry, compostable materials are a more trustworthy and certifiable option. Compostable packaging offers:
- Predictable degradation timeline
- Safe for food contact
- Measurable environmental benefits
- Compliance with global plastic bans
Bagasse as a Compostable Solution:
Bagasse, the fiber residue from sugarcane processing, is widely used in molded fiber tableware like:
- Plates
- Bowls
- Clamshell containers
- Trays
These products are:
- 100% plant-based
- Certified compostable (EN13432 / ASTM D6400)
- Suitable for industrial composting
📎 Explore our full bagasse packaging collection
Certifications That Matter
When sourcing compostable packaging, always look for trusted certifications:
These certifications are issued based on laboratory testing that verifies the material will fully degrade into non-toxic compost in controlled environments. In global markets such as the EU and North America, these standards are increasingly enforced through import regulations, eco-labeling directives, and green procurement policies. Businesses lacking certified packaging may find themselves excluded from public tenders or large-scale procurement programs.
How to Identify Truly Compostable Products
Not all green-looking products are equal. Here’s how to spot truly compostable packaging:
- Look for official certification marks (BPI, OK Compost, EN13432)
- Ask your supplier for documentation (e.g., compostability test reports)
- Avoid vague “eco” claims like “earth-friendly” or “green plastic”
Bonus tip: If it doesn’t break down in a backyard compost bin, it likely requires industrial composting.
Compostable vs. Biodegradable: Buyer’s Checklist
Ask your supplier:
- What certifications does this product carry?
- What’s the expected breakdown timeline?
- Can you provide compost test documentation?
- Is the material suitable for home composting?
FAQs: Biodegradable vs. Compostable
-
Can biodegradable plastics be composted?
Not always. Most require industrial conditions and may not break down fully.
-
Are all compostable products safe for home compost?
No. Some are only compostable in industrial facilities. Look for the OK Compost Home label.
-
What’s better for the environment — biodegradable or compostable?
Compostable products are regulated, faster to break down, and produce usable soil — making them the more sustainable choice.
-
Are bagasse plates and containers compostable?
Yes, high-quality bagasse packaging is certified compostable and ideal for foodservice use.
-
Can I put compostable packaging in the recycling bin?
No. Compostable packaging should be disposed of in composting systems, not recycling streams, as they contaminate plastic recycling processes.
-
What industries typically require compostable certification?
Government food service contracts, institutional catering, and eco-certified retail brands often mandate certified compostable packaging to meet compliance and brand values.
Conclusion: Choose Certified Compostable, Not Just Biodegradable
In the world of eco-packaging, precision matters. While “biodegradable” may sound appealing, it’s often too vague to trust. Compostable products offer measurable, verifiable, and truly eco-friendly benefits — especially when backed by international certifications.
For foodservice businesses, switching to certified compostable materials like bagasse tableware is not only environmentally responsible — it’s smart procurement.
🎯 Looking for certified compostable packaging that aligns with your brand values and meets global sustainability standards?
Explore our full range of bagasse tableware designed for industrial composting — and backed by EN13432 & ASTM D6400 certifications.
👉 Request a quote or browse our product collection today.
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