What is Biodegradable Packaging?

"Biodegradable" isn't bad, but it can be confusing!

If packaging is biodegradable, it simply means that it is capable of decomposing when exposed to bacteria, fungi, or other living organisms that will break it down. Sounds great, right? Hold on a moment! That doesn’t mean it is compostable!

Biodegradable can be a misleading term. While some biodegradable packaging can be good, the term can be used to imply that a product is good for the environment when in reality it is not. That’s why states like California have outlawed the use of the term in marketing. It's also why we never refer to our products as Biodegradable, and instead refer to them as Compostable. It is important that you know more before you buy something that is labeled as Biodegradable. 

Browse Compostable Packaging

Is Biodegradable Packaging Eco-Friendly?

Unfortunately that’s not an easy question to answer.

Packaging products labelled as biodegradable will break down eventually, given the right conditions, but in doing so they may release harmful gases and chemicals into the environment.

The term biodegradable is not a regulated term - it does not tell us anything else about the packaging. Biodegradable packaging can be eco-friendly, but is not always. 

When choosing packaging for your products it is also important to consider:

• Will it be safe for a composting system?

• How long does it take to break down?

• What does it need in order to decompose?

• Does it contain harmful additives?

• What does it break down into?

If your packaging takes too long to biodegrade it can cause the same problems in the environment as traditional plastics. If it releases harmful chemicals, that’s bad. If it breaks down into microplastics it can poison fish, wildlife, and ultimately our food.

What’s the Difference Between Biodegradable and Compostable?

Compostable packaging is biodegradable, but not all biodegradable packaging is compostable!

Compostable packaging products will:

• Break down within the time needed by the composting environment

• Not release harmful residue as they decompose

• Create healthy compost that will enrich the soil

 For packaging to be considered compostable it must adhere to strict standards! Certified compostable packaging has been rigorously tested to ensure compostability.

Due to these composting standards, packaging marked as biodegradable cannot be composted and must be sent to a landfill. In order to reduce landfill waste and protect our planet -

Choose Compostable Packaging!