Two Terms That Sound the Same But Aren't
Walk into any restaurant supply store in Australia and you'll see packaging labelled as both compostable and biodegradable. They sound interchangeable — but choosing the wrong one could mean your packaging ends up in landfill regardless of your good intentions.
Here is what each term actually means, and how to make the right choice for your operation.
What Does Biodegradable Mean?
Biodegradable means a material can break down through natural biological processes. The problem? Almost everything is technically biodegradable given enough time. A conventional plastic bag may take 500 years to degrade. That still qualifies as biodegradable.
There is no regulated standard in Australia for the term biodegradable in the context of packaging. Manufacturers can use it loosely, which is why you should always dig deeper before trusting it at face value.
When Biodegradable Claims Can Be Misleading
- No timeframe is specified for degradation
- Degradation may require industrial conditions not available in landfill
- Some biodegradable plastics only fragment into microplastics, not organic matter
- The term is largely unregulated in Australia
What Does Compostable Mean?
Compostable packaging has a much stricter definition. To be certified compostable in Australia, packaging must meet AS 4736 (industrial composting) or AS 5810 (home composting) standards. This means it must break down into water, CO2, and biomass within a defined timeframe and leave no toxic residue.
Look for the Australian Certified Compostable logo or the seedling logo from DIN CERTCO — these are your reliable indicators.
Industrial vs Home Compostable
- Industrially compostable — must go to a commercial composting facility operating at 55-70C. It will NOT break down properly in a home compost bin or in landfill.
- Home compostable — breaks down in a standard backyard compost at ambient temperatures. Does not require access to a commercial facility.
The Practical Choice for Australian Food Businesses
For most restaurants, cafes, and catering operations, here is what matters. Many councils across Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane now offer FOGO collections that accept certified compostable packaging. Check with your local council first.
Browse our range of certified compostable containers, including our popular sugarcane bagasse plates, compostable bowls, cups, and compostable cutlery — all meeting Australian standards.
Quick Reference
- Compostable: Certified standard AS 4736 or AS 5810, defined timeframe, leaves no toxins
- Biodegradable: No regulated standard in Australia, no timeframe guarantee, may leave harmful residues
- Winner for eco claims: Compostable — every time
Our Recommendation
For any food business serious about sustainability, choose packaging that carries a verified compostable certification. Explore our full range of certified compostable plates, cups, bowls, and cutlery — all certified for Australian conditions. Bulk pricing available for restaurants, caterers, and food service operations across Australia.