Biodegradable vs Compostable: What’s the Real Difference?

If you’ve ever been confused by the terms biodegradable and compostable, you’re not alone. They’re often used as if they mean the same thing, but in reality, there’s a big difference.

Many products labelled biodegradable aren’t as planet-friendly as they sound, while compostable packaging is held to strict environmental standards. Knowing the difference can help you make better choices for your business, your household, and the planet.

Let’s break it down clearly.

The Big Question: Biodegradable vs Compostable

Both biodegradable and compostable materials are designed to break down, but the how, where, and what’s left behind are what truly set them apart.

Type	What It Means	Time to Break Down	Residue	Regulation
Biodegradable	Breaks down naturally over time, without a set timeframe	Months to centuries	May leave microplastics	❌ No standard definition
Compostable	Breaks down fully in composting conditions into CO₂, water, and biomass	90–180 days	None. Leaves safe compost	✅ Certified to EN 13432 standard

What “Biodegradable” Really Means

The word biodegradable simply means that a material can be broken down by microorganisms into natural elements. The issue is that no regulation defines how long that should take or under what conditions.

Even traditional plastics are technically “biodegradable”, but it takes hundreds of years. In the meantime, they can release harmful microplastics and chemicals into the environment.

This vagueness is why “biodegradable” has become one of the most misused and greenwashed terms in sustainability marketing. Without certification, it doesn’t guarantee anything about how a product behaves in the real world.

What “Compostable” Really Means

Compostable materials are a different story. To be called compostable, a product must meet strict criteria, most importantly, the EN 13432 certification (the European standard for compostability).

That means it has been proven to:

• Break down completely within 90–180 days in industrial composting conditions

• Leave behind no toxic residue or microplastics

• Turn safely into nutrient-rich compost

In simple terms, compostable products are biodegradable, but with proof and accountability.

At Biofuture, all of our packaging, from takeaway boxes to bin liners, is certified compostable. So you can be confident that our products will break down safely once disposed of correctly.

Why People Confuse the Two

It’s easy to see why there’s confusion. Many brands use biodegradable to sound eco-friendly, even when their products won’t actually compost or degrade quickly.

This can sound positive, but unless they’re also labelled certified compostable, they may behave just like traditional plastic. This kind of greenwashing misleads well-meaning consumers and undermines real sustainability.

Which Is Better for the Environment?

When it comes to biodegradable vs compostable, there’s no contest. Compostable is better for the environment.

Here’s why:

• Biodegradable materials can take years to break down and may release microplastics into soil and water.

• Compostable materials decompose quickly under controlled conditions and leave behind valuable organic matter.

• Compostable packaging is compatible with the UK’s food waste collection systems, while biodegradable materials usually aren’t.

So while both may seem “eco-friendly,” only compostable packaging truly closes the loop, turning waste back into a resource.

If you’re considering switching from plastic or so-called “biodegradable” packaging to something genuinely sustainable, take a look at our guide for businesses: Switching to Compostable Food Packaging.

Why Certification Matters

Because biodegradable isn’t regulated, certification is the only reliable way to verify a product’s environmental performance.

Look for logos or labels showing compliance with EN 13432 or ASTM D6400. These prove that a product will break down safely in an industrial composting environment.

At Biofuture, every product is independently certified compostable, giving you full confidence that what you’re using is genuinely sustainable, not just marketed that way.

The Takeaway: Choose Certified Compostable

Here’s the simple truth:

• Biodegradable = vague and unregulated.

• Compostable = verified and environmentally sound.

Next time you’re choosing packaging or kitchen essentials, check the label carefully. If it’s not certified compostable, it may not be as green as it looks.

At Biofuture, we believe sustainability should be simple, honest, and accessible. That’s why every item we sell, from compostable takeaway boxes to kitchen bin liners, is made to meet the highest compostability standards.

Explore our full range of compostable food packaging and kitchen essentials and make the switch to packaging that truly returns to the earth.

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FAQs

Is biodegradable the same as compostable?

No. Biodegradable just means something can break down eventually, while compostable products are certified to break down safely and completely within a specific timeframe.

Which is better: biodegradable or compostable?

Compostable is better for the environment because it leaves no residue and is designed to decompose efficiently in food waste or composting systems.

Can compostable packaging go in the food waste bin?

It depends on your council. Many accept certified compostable caddy liners, but not compostable cups, boxes or films. Always check your local guidance before adding any packaging to food waste.

Are biodegradable bags compostable?

Not necessarily. Unless they’re certified to EN 13432, biodegradable bags may not break down properly and can contaminate compost. Our bin liners are certified compostable and can be composted at home or in industrial facilities.

What does EN 13432 mean?

EN 13432 is the European standard confirming that a product is compostable. It proves the item breaks down safely and leaves no harmful residue.

Are compostable caddy liners accepted with food waste?

In most areas, yes. Certified compostable liners (e.g. EN 13432) are accepted with food waste. Policies vary, so check your council’s rules.