What Is Compostable Plastic Made From? A Simple Guide

Compostable plastic gets a lot of attention, but what’s actually in it? It looks like plastic and functions much the same way, yet it’s designed to disappear, not linger for centuries. So what exactly is it made from?

Here’s a breakdown of the materials behind compostable plastics, how they differ from standard plastics, and why understanding them matters.

So, What Is Compostable Plastic?

Compostable plastic is designed to break down in composting conditions — ideally into water, CO2, and organic matter. No toxins, no lasting microplastics, and no trace of petroleum.

The core difference is in the source. Compostable plastics are made from plant-based ingredients, not fossil fuels. That’s what gives them their ability to return to the earth when handled correctly.

To be classified as compostable in the UK and Europe, materials must meet recognised certifications like EN13432. That standard guarantees they’ll break down efficiently and cleanly in industrial composting environments.

What’s Compostable Plastic Made From?

There isn’t one universal formula. Different compostable plastics are made from different bio-based materials depending on what they’re being used for — such as soft films, rigid components, or molded shapes.

Cornstarch

One of the most widely used ingredients. Cornstarch is renewable, flexible, and breaks down easily, making it suitable for forming pliable biopolymers that are lightweight and moisture-resistant.

PLA (Polylactic Acid)

PLA is derived from fermented sugars — most commonly from corn, sugarcane, or cassava. It can be processed into transparent films or sturdy moulds. Though it looks like conventional plastic, it is compostable in industrial settings and often has a glossy, smooth finish.

Bagasse

A by-product of sugarcane processing, bagasse is fibrous, mouldable, and has natural insulating properties. While technically not a plastic, it’s frequently used as a sustainable alternative for creating sturdy, heat-resistant items.

Other Natural Fibres

Wheat straw, bamboo, and cellulose are also used in compostable materials. These fibres offer a more textured, paper-like feel and are often appreciated for their breathability, biodegradability, and reduced environmental footprint during production.

What Are Compostable Plastics Used to Make?

Compostable plastics are used across a wide range of everyday items, both for personal use and commercial applications. Their versatility and low environmental impact make them ideal for replacing conventional plastic in many products.

Common products made from compostable plastics include:

• Food packaging – Such as trays, wraps, cling films, and pouches for fresh produce, baked goods, and deli items

• Retail and produce bags – Lightweight yet durable options for grocery shopping and produce handling

• Serviceware – Including cups, lids, straws, cutlery, and hot/cold drink containers

• Takeaway containers – Clamshell boxes, bowls, and trays used in food service and delivery

• Bin liners and waste bags – Compostable bags for food waste, kitchen caddies, pet waste and general refuse

• Mailing bags and padded envelopes – For e-commerce businesses looking for sustainable shipping options

• Hygiene and medical items – Like compostable gloves, aprons, and waste disposal bags used in clinical or caregiving settings

• Garden and agricultural films – Used in landscaping and crop management, designed to break down after use

At Biofuture, we focus on home and kitchen essentials that are both practical and planet-friendly — including items like compostable cling film, resealable food bags, bin liners, and paper cups. Our products are just a small part of a growing ecosystem of compostable innovations.

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These items are designed not just to function well, but to break down responsibly, helping individuals and businesses reduce their environmental impact without compromising on performance.

Compostable vs Biodegradable: Not the Same

The terms get mixed up a lot, but there’s a real difference:

• Compostable means the material breaks down quickly and safely in composting conditions, leaving behind no harmful residue.

• Biodegradable is a looser term. It means the material will break down... eventually. But it might leave microplastics, and there’s no regulated timeframe.

Feature	Compostable	Biodegradable
Breaks down into	Water, CO2, organic matter	Depends — may leave residue
Timescale	≤ 180 days (if industrially composted)	Undefined
Certification	EN13432, ASTM D6400	Often unverified
Residue	None	Possible microplastics

So while all compostable plastics are biodegradable, not all biodegradable plastics are compostable — and many so-called “biodegradable” plastics can linger in the environment for years. If you’re aiming to reduce environmental impact, compostable is usually the safer, more transparent choice.

Can You Compost It at Home?

Sometimes, yes — but not always.

There are two main categories: home compostable and industrial compostable.

• Home compostable items will break down in a garden compost bin, though timing varies.

• Industrial compostable products (like most PLA-based packaging) need high heat, moisture, and consistent airflow, which means they require a commercial composting facility.

In the UK, compostable plastics aren’t accepted in every food waste bin scheme, so it’s worth checking with your local council.

We label every product clearly with whether it’s home or industrial compostable. That clarity helps ensure the product ends up in the right place. Learn more about how to compost at home.

Why Understanding the Materials Matters

Compostable packaging plays a growing role in reducing plastic waste — but only when it’s used and disposed of properly. Knowing what compostable plastic is made from helps you:

• Make better choices as a consumer or business

• Avoid greenwashing claims

• Understand what needs to happen for the product to break down fully

When compostable plastic goes to landfill, it behaves much like regular plastic. But when it’s used and composted correctly, it supports a much more circular and sustainable system. Making simple changes in your daily routine, like finding some eco-friendly kitchen swaps, can also be a practical step toward reducing waste and improving sustainability in your home.

To discover more ways that compostable products help the environment, learn the top reasons why composting is important.

In Summary

Compostable plastics are made from materials like cornstarch, PLA, bagasse, and other natural fibres. These ingredients give the products the functionality of plastic, without the long-term environmental footprint.

As part of our commitment to the environment, we supply certified compostable packaging that’s genuinely sustainable. From food wrap to bin liners, every product is built with transparency and proper end-of-life in mind.

Curious to explore our range? See our certified compostable packaging.

Better materials. Clearer labelling. No greenwashing — just products that are built to break down.