Biodegradable vs. Compostable Packaging: What’s Best?

Compostable packaging is usually the best choice when it’s certified and your area has composting facilities. It follows clear compostable packaging standards (like ASTM D6400, ASTM D6868, and EN 13432) and breaks down into non-toxic compost.

Biodegradable packaging can be eco-friendly too, but the term is often vague unless it clearly explains how long it takes to break down and under what conditions.

So what’s best?

• If composting is available → certified compostable packaging is often best.
• If composting isn’t available → recyclable or reusable packaging is usually better in real life.

Biodegradable vs Compostable Packaging

Key takeaway: If you’re asking “compostable vs biodegradable packaging — which is better?” compostable is usually the safer choice because it’s tied to certifications.

What Does “Biodegradable” Really Mean?

Biodegradable means a material can break down with the help of microorganisms (like bacteria and fungi). But it doesn’t tell you:

• how long it will take
• what conditions it needs
• whether it leaves microplastics

That’s why many people search:
“How long does biodegradable plastic take to break down?”
The honest answer: it depends, and it can take a very long time in landfills due to low oxygen and poor conditions.

Avoid “Oxo-degradable” plastics

If you see oxo-degradable or oxo-biodegradable, be careful. These plastics may break into small pieces, which can increase microplastics rather than fully biodegrade.

What Does “Compostable” Mean?

Compostable packaging is designed to break down into water, CO₂, and organic matter under composting conditions — without leaving harmful residue. Compostable products usually follow standards such as:

• ASTM D6400 (compostable plastics)
• ASTM D6868 (compostable coatings/laminations)
• EN 13432 (European compostable packaging standard)

Home compostable vs industrial compostable

This is a key question:
home compostable vs industrial compostable

• Industrial compostable items often need high heat and controlled composting facilities.
• Home compostable items can break down in backyard compost, but still take time.

Tip: If your city doesn’t accept compostable packaging, it may end up in landfill — which reduces the benefit.

Certifications & Standards to Trust

To avoid greenwashing, look for certifications like:

• BPI Certified Compostable
• TÜV OK Compost HOME / INDUSTRIAL
• ASTM D6400 / ASTM D6868
• EN 13432
• AS 4736–2006 (Australia)

If packaging doesn’t have clear compostable certification, don’t assume it’s compostable.

Best Choice by Use Case

Food service & takeout packaging
Best: Certified compostable packaging
Because food contamination makes recycling harder.

E-commerce & shipping
Best: Recyclable paper mailers or cardboard
Compostable mailers only work when customers have compost access.

Retail bags & produce bags
Best: Reusable bags first
If single-use is needed: compostable bags (certified) where compost programs exist.

FAQs

Is compostable the same as biodegradable?

No. Compostable is a type of biodegradable material, but it must break down safely under composting standards.

Can compostable packaging go in recycling?

Usually no. It can contaminate recycling streams.

Can biodegradable packaging be composted?

Not always. Only packaging certified compostable should go in compost.

Does compostable packaging break down in landfill?

Not reliably. Landfills often lack the conditions needed for composting.