Home Compostable Product Buying Guide

In today's environmentally conscious world, more and more consumers are seeking eco-friendly alternatives to traditional packaging. For those looking to make sustainable choices in the food industry, compostable packaging offers a promising solution. In this guide, we'll explore the ins and outs of home compostable packaging, helping you make informed decisions about your eco-friendly food packaging needs.

Home compostable foodservice products are designed to break down into organic matter when subjected to the conditions found in a backyard composting setup. Unlike traditional plastics, which can take centuries to decompose, home compostable materials return to the earth relatively quickly and without leaving harmful residues. These materials provide a sustainable alternative for food service businesses and individuals looking for the best way to compost at home. 

To determine if a take out container is compostable, there are a few key indicators to look for. First, check the packaging for any certification labels such as the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) or the Compostable Logo. These symbols indicate that the container has been tested and certified to break down in a composting facility. Additionally, look for materials such as PLA (polylactic acid) or other plant-based plastics, as these are commonly used in compostable packaging. Avoid containers made from traditional plastic, which will not compost. If you're unsure, you can always inquire with the restaurant or refer to their packaging information to ensure that you're disposing of your take out container in an environmentally responsible way.

When choosing compostable take out containers, several factors should be considered to ensure they are suitable for your needs.

Opt for containers that accommodate your portion sizes without excessive waste. Choosing the right size minimizes food waste and maximizes storage efficiency.

Look for containers made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of transportation and handling. While compostable materials may not be as robust as traditional plastics, they should still offer sufficient strength to contain your food securely.

Consider the types of food you'll be packaging and choose containers that are compatible. Some compostable materials may be better suited to certain foods than others, so be sure to select options that meet your specific requirements.

Certified home compostable packaging meets stringent standards set by organizations such as TUV Austria. Products bearing the TUV Home Compostable Certification undergo rigorous testing to ensure they break down efficiently in home composting systems. Look for this certification when purchasing compostable packaging to guarantee its eco-friendly credentials.

In addition to the TUV Home Compostable Certification, several other well-known certifications signify compostable packaging's adherence to rigorous environmental standards. One prominent certification is the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) certification, which verifies that products meet the ASTM D6400 or D6868 standards for compostability. Another recognized certification is the European standard EN 13432, which ensures that packaging materials decompose in industrial composting facilities within a specified timeframe. Moreover, the Compostable logo from the Compost Manufacturing Alliance (CMA) indicates that products are certified to break down in industrial composting systems. These certifications require thorough testing and evaluation to ensure that the packaging materials degrade efficiently without leaving harmful residues. When purchasing compostable packaging, consumers should look for these certifications alongside the TUV Home Compostable Certification to ensure the products' eco-friendly credentials and contribute to sustainable waste management practices.

When it comes to home compostable food-safe materials, several options are available, each with its own unique characteristics. Remember to confirm whether an item is truly home compostable by looking for certifications on the packaging. If unsure, you can also review the product description for composting instructions or contact the customer service department of the manufacturer.

Bagasse, a byproduct of sugarcane processing, is a popular material for compostable food packaging. It is sturdy, heat-resistant, and compostable, making it perfect for a wide range of applications.

Restaurantware offers a range of home compostable products made from bagasse, including:

These provide a sustainable solution for food sampling applications. Despite their compostable nature, these spoons offer sturdy performance and can be disposed of in home composting systems, contributing to reduced waste and environmental impact.

Microwave-safe and compostable, these containers offer a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic containers. They are also suitable for various food items and can be easily composted at home after use, promoting sustainable waste management practices.

Ideal for serving a wide range of hot and cold foods, bagasse bowls are versatile and heat-resistant. Compostable and made from renewable sugarcane fibers, these bowls minimize environmental impact and support sustainable agriculture practices.

Featuring a leak-resistant design, these soup cups ensure the secure containment of liquids during transportation and consumption. Home compostable and renewable, these cups provide a sustainable option for serving soups and other liquid-based dishes

These offer sturdy construction and are suitable for serving appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Compostable and eco-friendly, these plates can be conveniently composted at home, reducing waste and supporting a circular economy.

With a secure closure mechanism, clamshell containers are an ideal choice for packaging takeaway meals. Sustainable and renewable, these containers contribute to reduced reliance on fossil fuels and promote environmental stewardship.

Choosing home compostable packaging is a sustainable and environmentally responsible choice for food service businesses and individuals alike. By selecting certified compostable materials and understanding their properties, you can contribute to reducing waste and protecting the planet. Explore our range of home compostable products and make the switch to eco-friendly packaging today.

Derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane, PLA is a versatile material commonly used for food packaging. It is transparent, durable, and compostable, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of applications.

Made from the leftover stalks of wheat plants after harvesting, wheat straw fiber is a sustainable alternative to traditional paper or plastic. It is sturdy, microwave-safe, and fully compostable, making it ideal for food containers and utensils.

Recycled paper packaging offers an eco-friendly solution for food service businesses. It is biodegradable, compostable, and can be customized with various biodegradable coatings, such as PLA, to enhance its durability and moisture resistance.

Thermoplastic and crystallized polylactic acid are variations of PLA that offer enhanced heat resistance and rigidity. These materials are suitable for hot food applications and are fully compostable in home composting systems.

Bamboo-based packaging combines the sustainability of bamboo with the biodegradability of compostable materials. It is durable, lightweight, and naturally antimicrobial, making it an excellent choice for food containers and utensils.

Brown take out containers are often made from recycled paper or cardboard, which can be compostable depending on the materials and coatings used. Check the packaging or consult the manufacturer to determine if your brown take out containers are suitable for home composting.

While compostable items are designed to break down in composting systems, they require specific conditions to decompose effectively. Simply throwing them away in the trash may result in them ending up in a landfill, where they may not break down as intended. To ensure proper disposal, consider composting your compostable items at home. Learn more about composting kitchen waste and easy composting in our article, "Home Composting Guide For Beginners."