What Is the Difference Between Bio-Based and Biodegradable?

Bio-based materials are made partly or wholly from biological resources, such as corn, sugarcane, or other renewable feedstocks. Their bio-based content can vary, and a bio-based material is not necessarily biodegradable.

Biodegradable materials can be broken down by microorganisms under suitable conditions. The process and its timeframe depend on the material, temperature, moisture, microbial activity, and other environmental factors. A biodegradable claim should therefore be supported by relevant testing under clearly defined conditions.

For packaging applications, these terms should not be used interchangeably.

Examples of Bio-Based and Biodegradable Materials

These examples illustrate why material composition alone does not establish biodegradability. Actual performance depends on the polymer grade, formulation, product design, and applicable test conditions.

For a broader comparison of packaging options, see our Sustainable Packaging Materials Guide, which covers conventional plastics, recycled materials, bio-based materials, and compostable materials.

Biodegradable Does Not Automatically Mean Compostable

Compostability is a more specific property than biodegradability. Compostable materials must meet defined requirements under specified composting conditions, which may include biodegradation, disintegration, and limits on certain substances and effects on compost quality.

Industrial compostability does not automatically mean a material is suitable for home composting. Similarly, a compostable product may not break down effectively in landfill, soil, or marine environments.

Packaging buyers should evaluate the intended disposal route alongside the material itself. Relevant standards may include EN 13432 for industrially compostable packaging in Europe and ASTM D6400 for compostable plastics in municipal or industrial aerobic composting facilities in the United States, where applicable.

What Should Packaging Buyers Verify?

Before selecting a bio-based or biodegradable packaging material, buyers should confirm three points:

1. Bio-based content: What percentage of the material is bio-based, and how is that percentage verified?

2. Performance evidence: Is there appropriate test data or certification supporting the biodegradability or compostability claim under the intended conditions?

3. End-of-life compatibility: Does the finished packaging match the disposal or processing infrastructure available in the target market?

Testing and certification should be relevant to the actual material or finished product being purchased. A resin certificate alone may not establish that a converted bag or film meets every requirement of the applicable finished-product standard.

How to Choose the Right Material

The right choice depends on the packaging's intended function, required performance, regulatory requirements, and available end-of-life options. Bio-based materials may be appropriate when the objective is to increase renewable feedstock content. Biodegradable or compostable materials may be relevant when a verified end-of-life pathway is part of the packaging specification.

At Torise, material selection should begin with the intended application, required performance, and target-market requirements—not simply the use of a sustainability label. Buyers should review material composition, supporting documentation, and the suitability of the finished packaging before making a purchasing decision.

Frequently Asked Questions