What's the different between Biodegradable and Compostable?

What's the different between Biodegradable and Compostable?

What's the different between Biodegradable and Compostable?

Short Answer

Biodegradable means breakdown over an open-ended timeline (months to centuries). Compostable is stricter: breakdown into CO2, water, and biomass within ~90 days under managed conditions, no toxic residue (EN 13432 / ASTM D6400). Every compostable item is biodegradable, not vice versa — for tableware, "compostable" is the safer claim.

Key Differences

Factor Biodegradable Compostable
Timeline Months to years, unspecified ~90 days, defined
Conditions Any natural environment Managed composting
Certification No single standard EN 13432 / ASTM D6400

Which to Choose

  • Pick compostable when regulators or customers require verified end-of-life.
  • Untreated birch and bamboo tableware are compostable by nature.

Need verified compostable tableware? See the range or request certification documents.