As more businesses look for eco-friendly alternatives to plastic packaging, the terms compostable and biodegradable are everywhere. But what’s the real difference between the two—and why does it matter for your brand?
In this article, we break it down in simple terms, and help you choose the right material for your business.
1. Biodegradable ≠ Compostable
At first glance, these two words may sound like they mean the same thing: bags that break down over time. But the way they break down and what’s left behind makes a big difference.
| Term | What it means | Breaks down into | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biodegradable | Will break down eventually | May leave toxins | Months to years |
| Compostable | Breaks down in compost conditions | Leaves only water, CO₂, and biomass | ~3-6 months |
💡 Important: All compostable materials are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable materials are compostable.
2. Compostable Bags Are Safer for the Planet
Biodegradable plastic can still leave microplastics or toxic residues in soil or water.
Compostable bags, on the other hand:
- Are made from plant-based materials like cornstarch, PLA, or PBAT
- Break down cleanly in home or industrial composting
- Comply with standards like EN13432 and ASTM D6400
That’s why more retailers, food brands, and eco-conscious businesses are choosing compostable bags for their packaging.
3. Which Should You Use for Your Business?
If you’re serious about sustainability, here’s our take:
✅ Choose compostable bags if:
- You’re a D2C brand that ships online (compostable mailers)
- You sell food, cosmetics, or organic goods
- You want to align with circular economy goals
🚫 Be cautious with “biodegradable” products that don’t specify the conditions or leave behind residues. Your customers are smarter than ever—they’ll ask for proof.
4. Certifications to Look For
Before you buy, check for trusted certifications:
- 🌿 EN13432 (Europe)
- 🌿 ASTM D6400 / D6868 (USA)
- 🌿 OK Compost Home / Industrial (by TÜV Austria)
At Hemcbags, we provide fully certified compostable bags that meet global standards—and are tested to perform.
5. Final Thoughts
Switching from plastic to compostable packaging is not just a trend—it’s becoming the standard. By choosing compostable over biodegradable, you’re making a real commitment to the planet and building trust with eco-conscious customers.
👉 Need samples or a quotation?
At Hemcbags, we help brands and importers worldwide switch to certified compostable bags that are durable, leak-proof, and ready for retail.
📩 Contact us here or email us at chris@hemcbags.com
