What Is the Difference Between Compostable Plates and Biodegradable Plates?
Introduction
As the world becomes increasingly eco-conscious, businesses and consumers alike are switching to sustainable alternatives for everyday items — including plates. Among the most popular options are biodegradable plates and compostable plates. But what exactly sets them apart? Understanding the differences between a biodegradable and compostable plates helps you make smarter, greener purchasing decisions. In this guide, we’ll explain how each works, their environmental impact, and why KEYI Compostable Plates are the preferred choice for truly sustainable dining.
What Is a Compostable Plates?
Compostable plates go a step further. They’re specifically designed to break down under composting conditions — typically within 60 to 90 days — and turn into nutrient-rich compost that benefits the soil.
These plates are made from natural, renewable plant materials like:
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Sugarcane bagasse
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Bamboo pulp
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Cornstarch (PLA)
Unlike many biodegradable plates, compostable plates are held to strict international standards. Certified compostable products (like those from KEYI) leave no toxic residue, making them safer for both the environment and human health.
What Is a Biodegradable Plates?
Biodegradable plates are products made from materials that can naturally break down over time through the action of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, or algae. This breakdown process converts the material into water, carbon dioxide, and organic matter.
While this sounds environmentally friendly, not all biodegradable products are created equal. Some take years to decompose, especially in landfills with limited oxygen and moisture. Others may leave behind microplastics or harmful residues, depending on the material composition.
Common materials used for biodegradable plates include:
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Bioplastics (derived from cornstarch or other plants)
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Paperboard with biodegradable coatings
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Mixed organic fibers
In short, “biodegradable” simply means it will eventually degrade, but the timeframe and completeness of the process vary greatly.
6 Differences Between a Biodegradable and Compostable Plates
Material Composition
The first major difference lies in what each plate is made of.
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Biodegradable plates can be made from a wide variety of materials — including plant-based plastics (PLA), paperboard, or even mixed natural fibers. However, some still contain synthetic additives or coatings, which can slow down the decomposition process.
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Compostable plates, in contrast, are made entirely from organic, renewable plant materials such as sugarcane bagasse, bamboo pulp, or cornstarch. These natural fibers ensure that when the plate breaks down, it turns into non-toxic compost without leaving harmful residues.
KEYI Compostable Plates are produced using sugarcane and bamboo pulp, molded under high heat to ensure durability, safety, and true biodegradability.
Decomposition Time
Time is another key difference between compostable and biodegradable plates.
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Biodegradable plates may take months to years to fully decompose, depending on the environment and material composition. In landfills, where oxygen and moisture are limited, this process can slow down significantly.
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Compostable plates, however, are designed to break down within 60 to 90 days in industrial composting conditions. They quickly return to the earth as nutrient-rich organic matter.
If you want a faster, cleaner breakdown cycle, compostable plates clearly have the advantage.
End Result After Decomposition
The final product of decomposition is where compostable plates truly shine.
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Biodegradable plates simply break down into smaller components — water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. But not all of these are beneficial. Some materials may leave microplastics or chemical residues behind, potentially harming soil and water ecosystems.
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Compostable plates, on the other hand, transform into usable compost — a natural fertilizer that improves soil health and plant growth. No toxins, no microplastics, and no waste.
That’s why choosing KEYI Compostable Plates supports a circular economy, where waste becomes a valuable resource.
Environmental lmpact
Both options are better than plastic, but their environmental footprints differ.
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Biodegradable plates help reduce landfill waste but can still leave behind minor pollutants if not properly processed.
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Compostable plates have a zero-waste lifecycle — they’re made from renewable resources, used safely, and decomposed into organic matter that benefits the planet.
By choosing compostable plates, you minimize pollution, lower carbon emissions, and actively contribute to sustainable living.
KEYI Compostable Plates are not only eco-friendly but also acid and alkali resistant (pH 1–12), oil-proof (90°C for 5 hours), microwavable, and oven-safe, making them both green and practical.
Certification and Standards
One of the most overlooked — yet most important — differences between biodegradable and compostable plates is certification.
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The term “biodegradable” isn’t heavily regulated. Manufacturers can use it loosely without meeting strict environmental standards.
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Compostable plates, in contrast, are backed by international certifications such as:
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BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) – U.S. standard
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EN 13432 – European compostability standard
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OK Compost / OK Home Compost – TÜV Austria certification
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Certified compostable products, like KEYI Compostable Plates, ensure safe, complete degradation and meet verified sustainability standards.
Disposal and Waste Management
Finally, the disposal process differs significantly between the two.
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Biodegradable plates can decompose naturally but may still require specific environmental conditions — and most landfills don’t provide them. So while they are technically biodegradable, they might not degrade efficiently in real-world conditions.
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Compostable plates, however, are made to fit within existing industrial or home composting systems. When properly disposed of, they completely break down and return nutrients to the soil — closing the sustainability loop.
If your local waste management system supports composting, compostable plates are the best and most responsible choice.
Compostable Plates VS Biodegradable Plates
| Feature / Aspect | Biodegradable Plates | Compostable Plates |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Break down naturally over time through microorganisms such as bacteria or fungi. The process can vary depending on environmental conditions. | Designed to decompose under specific composting conditions into water, carbon dioxide, and nutrient-rich organic matter that benefits the soil. |
| Material Composition | May be made from mixed materials — plant fibers, paper, or bioplastics (some may still include chemical additives or coatings). | Made from 100% natural, renewable plant-based materials such as sugarcane bagasse, bamboo pulp, or cornstarch (PLA). No toxins or synthetic binders. |
| Decomposition Time | Can take several months to years depending on temperature, humidity, and oxygen availability. Decomposition in landfills is often slow. | Typically decomposes completely within 60–90 days in industrial composting conditions or 90–180 days in home composting environments. |
| End Result / Residue | Breaks down into natural elements but may leave behind microplastics or chemical residues, especially if made with bioplastics. | Converts entirely into compost — safe, organic material that improves soil structure and fertility. Leaves no harmful residue. |
| Environmental Impact | Reduces plastic pollution but may still cause environmental stress if not properly disposed of. Not always circular. | Zero-waste lifecycle — made from renewable resources, decomposes quickly, and returns nutrients to the earth. Fully circular and eco-positive. |
| Required Conditions | Needs oxygen, moisture, and microorganisms; often decomposes very slowly in landfills due to lack of these elements. | Requires composting conditions (industrial or home). Designed for controlled decomposition with proper temperature and aeration. |
| Regulation and Certification | The term “biodegradable” is loosely defined and not strictly regulated. Few or no official certifications. | Must meet strict international standards such as BPI (U.S.), EN 13432 (EU), and OK Compost. Third-party tested for performance and safety. |
| Toxicity / Chemical Safety | May contain dyes, coatings, or bioplastics that release small amounts of toxins during decomposition. | Completely non-toxic, odorless, and safe for food contact. Produces zero harmful emissions when decomposed. |
| Suitability for Composting | Not all biodegradable plates can be composted — some may disrupt compost quality. | Fully suitable for composting — both industrial and home compost systems. Enhances soil without contamination. |
| Waste Disposal Method | Can be thrown into regular waste but decomposition may take years. Best avoided for landfills. | Should be placed in a compost bin or facility for efficient decomposition and environmental benefit. |
| End-Use Value | Limited — once degraded, provides no additional environmental benefit. | High — resulting compost can be reused in agriculture and gardening as natural fertilizer. |
| Typical Cost | Usually cheaper, but may offer lower performance and longer breakdown times. | Slightly higher upfront cost, but delivers better sustainability and brand value in the long run. |
| Product Example (KEYI) | Biodegradable paper-based plate with limited breakdown efficiency. | KEYI Compostable Plates made from sugarcane and bamboo pulp: biodegradable within 90 days, waterproof, oil-proof, microwavable, and oven-safe. |
Conclusion
The 6 differences between a biodegradable and compostable plates highlight one clear fact: compostable plates are the superior eco-friendly choice. They decompose faster, leave no harmful residue, and help enrich the earth instead of polluting it.If you’re committed to sustainability, choose KEYI Compostable Plates — a product line built on quality, safety, and environmental responsibility.As a trusted biodegradable and compostable plate manufacturer in China, KEYI offers high-grade, competitively priced tableware that’s hygienic, durable, and 100% compostable within 90 days.
