Biodegradable

Pronunciation: (bye-oh-di-grey-duh-buh l)

Biodegradable refers to materials that can be broken down into natural substances (like carbon dioxide, water, and biomass) by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi under specific conditions (like the presence of oxygen, moisture, and appropriate temperature). It's important to note that "biodegradable" doesn't specify a timeframe, and decomposition can take weeks, months, or even years. For foodservice disposables, this often pertains to items like plates, cups, cutlery, and containers made from materials like bagasse (sugarcane pulp), bamboo, or PLA (polylactic acid), which are designed to decompose under specific composting conditions, often industrial composting rather than home composting. It's crucial to differentiate biodegradable disposables from conventional plastics, which persist in the environment for much longer.

Biodegradable illustration

Common questions related to Biodegradable

  • What does it mean to be biodegradable?

    It means a material can be broken down into natural substances (like CO2 and water) by microorganisms.

  • Is biodegradable good or bad?

    Generally good for the environment as it reduces long-lasting waste, but it depends on the specific material and decomposition conditions.

  • How is biodegradable different than compostable?

    All compostable materials are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable materials are compostable. Composting requires specific conditions and results in usable compost, while biodegradation can happen anywhere over any timeframe.

Sources:

  • https://www.epa.gov/facts-about-materials-bioplastics
  • https://www.biodegradableproductsinstitute.com/composting-biodegradable-products
  • https://www.cedar-grove.com/blog/biodegradable-vs-compostable-disposable-products

Equip Your Business for Success

We provide innovative foodservice solutions tailored to your needs—whether it’s eco-friendly packaging, durable disposables, or custom branded supplies.

Discover Our Solutions