Compostable Plates, Cups & Straws

Restaurants, universities, and corporate campuses are rapidly replacing traditional plastics with certified compostable alternatives. But not all “compostable” claims are created equal—especially as more states adopt truth-in-labeling laws that require verified third-party certification.

According to recent data from Grand View Research, the global biodegradable tableware market exceeded $15 billion in 2023 and continues to grow rapidly. As compostable packaging laws expand, reliable certification is now a compliance necessity—not just a marketing perk.

Made primarily from bagasse (sugarcane fiber), compostable plates provide durability without plastic coatings.

• BPI Certification Standards require that products fully disintegrate within 90–180 days in an industrial compost environment.
   
• Forever Free plates feature a slightly denser fiber structure to resist bending or warping, ensuring both compostability and usability.
   

Cups are one of the fastest-growing compostable categories.

• Forever Free’s PLA-lined cups handle both hot and cold beverages without delamination.
   
• Learn more about PLA materials and composting on GreenBlue’s Sustainable Packaging Coalition.
   

Forever Free straws use a plant-fiber blend that doesn’t collapse like paper, with a slightly larger inner diameter for dispenser compatibility.
For context, see how Eco-Products approaches straw design on their Compostable Straws Product Page.

• Confirm active BPI certification via the BPI database.
• Match your dispenser system’s cutlery or plate size.
• Evaluate cost per use rather than case price.
• Select products verified for commercial composting only.
• Choose transparent suppliers who list certification status publicly.

World Centric previously carried BPI certification for many SKUs but, as of 2024, no longer lists active certifications in BPI’s searchable database (verify here).

This means their “compostable” labeling may no longer comply with state compostable packaging laws, including:

• California AB 1201 Compostable Labeling Law
• Washington SB 5022 Truthful Environmental Labeling
• Minnesota HF 3577 Environmental Marketing Standards
   

For institutional buyers, this creates potential contract compliance issues and disqualification from government tenders requiring third-party certification.

• ✅ Active BPI Certification: Verified and searchable on BPI’s product directory.
  🧩 Dispenser Compatibility: Designed around standardized dispenser geometries—gravity or pull-release types.
• 💲 Lower Cost: Typically 10–15% less per case than comparable Eco-Products or World Centric lines.
  📦 Local Production: Based in Minnesota, with North American partners to reduce shipping impact.
  🌎 Sustainability by Design: Optimized material thickness and packaging for lower transport emissions.

Forever Free ensures compliance where others cut corners.

• Certified and listed on BPI for full traceability.
• Built for dispensers to eliminate jams.
• More affordable than competing national brands.
• Compliant with compostable labeling laws in all 50 states.
   

View our official Forever Free listings on the BPI Certified Directory here.