Biodegradable vs. Compostable: What's the difference?
- Nicole Braganza
- Aug 12
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 26
Sustainable business goals are cool, but eco-jargon can be a vibe-killer. We get it: terms like "carbon neutrality" or "circular economy" sound abstract when you're focused on inventory, staffing, and keeping customers happy.
If you’re in food service, whether that’s a busy restaurant, a café, a food truck, or catering, your plate is already full with thin margins, shifting customer expectations, and regulatory hoops to jump through. Sustainability terms shouldn’t be just another thing to decode.
Even commonly used terms like biodegradable and compostable are casually thrown around, without really knowing what they mean or the impact they can have on customer experience. We’re here to solve that. Let's cut to the chase: biodegradable vs compostable - what's the difference, and why does it matter for your business? Here's the lowdown.
What is biodegradable?
Britannica defines biodegradability as “the capability of a material to be broken down by living organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or water molds, and reabsorbed by the natural environment.” Unlike regular plastic that sticks around forever, biodegradable things can eventually return to nature. However, how fast they break down depends on what they're made of and where they end up.
For example, a banana peel might break down in 3 to 5 weeks in a backyard compost pile. A biodegradable plastic bottle could still take 2–5 years or more, depending on conditions, especially if it ends up in a landfill where oxygen and microbes are limited.
The tricky part is that biodegradable doesn’t always mean safe or plastic-free. Some materials marketed this way can contain petroleum-based plastics or toxic additives. The term is also often used in greenwashing to make consumers associate it with being “better” than compostable, which isn’t necessarily true.
What is compostable?
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides a definition of compostable in its Green Guides: “for a product to be marketed as compostable, it must break down into a usable compost in a safe and timely manner in an appropriate composting facility or in a home compost pile or device.”Compostable materials break down with purpose. What does this mean? Essentially, they don’t just disappear, but instead transform into something valuable — nutrient-rich humus, often called "black gold" by gardeners. This compost adds valuable nutrients back to soil, improves soil structure and water retention and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers.
For something to be truly compostable, it must decompose completely within a reasonable timeframe without leaving harmful residues, ultimately returning to the earth as beneficial matter.
In the United States, this standard timeframe for compostability is defined by ASTM D6400 for single-material compostable plastics and ASTM D6868 for multi-layered products made of paper or fiber with a compostable plastic coating. This mandates that compostable products should:
Disintegrate by at least 90% within 12 weeks
Biodegrade at least 90% within 6 months in commercial composting conditions
Leave no toxic residue
Result in compost that can support plant growth
Biodegradable vs. compostable: Key differences
Think biodegradable and compostable are interchangeable terms? Think again!
Biodegradable materials can break down in natural environments, but how long they take can vary significantly, and they might leave behind microplastics or other residues. Compostable materials need specific conditions like consistent heat, moisture and oxygen to decompose properly, and typically in a composting facility. They are designed to disappear quickly, often in weeks or months. The upside is they leave behind nutrition-rich compost that can nourish plants and the soil.
If you're a food service business owner, pay attention to these differences. Don’t fall for greenwashing. Keep in mind that products labeled "compostable" must meet stricter standards regarding decomposition time and environmental impact.
The right choice can help you reduce waste, win customer love and boost your sustainability cred. If you need some help getting started, check out our range of biodegradable or compostable serviceware.
Which is better, biodegradable or compostable?
Compostable is objectively better from an environmental perspective. Certified compostable products must completely break down into non-toxic components within a specific timeframe (typically 90 days) in commercial composting facilities, leaving no harmful residues behind. These items must meet strict testing standards like ASTM D6400 or EN 13432 (a European standard).
Biodegradable, by contrast, simply means that microorganisms can break down the material eventually. No guarantees about timeframe, completeness of decomposition, or safety of remaining residues. The term is largely unregulated and can be applied to products that still leave behind microplastics or chemical byproducts.
Since compostable products typically cost 15-30% more than conventional alternatives, many businesses hesitate due to the price premiums and customer confusion between the terms. The best choice depends on your specific business context, local waste infrastructure, and customer expectations. Regulations around plastic use are getting tighter across the US, so the best time to make a decision is now!
Switching to biodegradable & compostable serviceware
Here are six things you need to know as a food service business owner considering making the switch to biodegradable or compostable tableware and drinkware.
Initial costs may be higher
Biodegradable and compostable items typically cost 15-30% more than traditional plastic options. For example, compostable to-go containers might cost $0.35-0.50 each versus $0.15-0.25 for plastic alternatives. But don’t forget, you can offset these costs by negotiating bulk purchase discounts with suppliers like Plastic Detox.
Some waste management companies offer lower rates for compostable waste, and you can highlight your eco-friendly practices to justify a small menu price increase (typically 1-3%). You may even qualify for green business tax incentives via the COMPOST Act which proposes tax credits for companies investing in composting infrastructure.
Look for the right certifications
Items with proper certifications like BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) or ASTM D6400/D6868 standards ensure the products you buy will actually break down as claimed under the right conditions. Although the federal government doesn't mandate these certifications nationwide, they're important because many products labeled as "biodegradable" may not decompose in real-world conditions without proper certification.
Disposal infrastructure matters
Compostable items need proper commercial composting facilities to break down effectively. Why? Because they maintain higher temperatures (140-160°F), controlled moisture levels, and specific microorganism environments that home composting systems typically can't achieve. Before investing in compostable products, verify that:
Your area has commercial composting facilities that accept food service items
Your waste hauler offers compost collection services for businesses
The specific items you're purchasing are accepted by your local facility (some facilities reject certain compostable plastics)
Communicate your sustainability efforts
Make sure your customers are aware of and fully understand your sustainability efforts. Many new age diners value environmental responsibility and will appreciate knowing about your commitment to choosing truly green serviceware.
Understand different materials
Not all biodegradable or compostable materials behave like traditional plastics, and that’s important to know before making the switch. Take compostable takeout containers, for example: they might not hold up as well with very hot or saucy foods unless you choose a higher-grade option, like one coated with seaweed to hold up against greasy foods. That’s why investing in quality matters. Customers love eco-friendly options, but no one’s excited about a soggy straw halfway through their latte. Choosing durable, well-made products, like biodegradable bamboo straws, keeps the experience positive while still supporting your sustainability goals.
Regulatory advantages
Many cities and states are implementing bans on single-use plastics. For example, San Francisco and Seattle have comprehensive bans on single-use plastics in restaurants, while New York City has banned foam containers. Switching proactively can put you ahead of compliance requirements and avoid scrambling to change when new regulations take effect.
FAQs
Does 100% biodegradable mean compostable?
No. Biodegradable products are not always compostable, however, all compostable products are biodegradable.
What is 100% compostable plastic?
100% compostable plastics are made from materials that break down into natural components like carbon dioxide, water, and biomass. Derived from renewable resources, they're biodegradable, non-toxic, and turn into nutrient-rich compost. Proper composting conditions and infrastructure are necessary for effective decomposition and environmental benefits.
Are biodegradable or compostable products better?
Compostable products are generally better because they break down into nutrient-rich soil, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Biodegradable products may break down into smaller pieces, but don't necessarily turn into something useful. Compostable products require specific conditions, but offer more environmental benefits when done correctly. Quality matters.
Where can I find eco-friendly food packaging for my small business?
Plastic Detox is one of the leading online marketplaces for sustainable serviceware and eco friendly food packaging. You’ll find everything from biodegradable plates to compostable paper cold cups and sturdy to-go containers that can comfortably hold full-size meals, combo platters, and hearty portions.
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