Are you looking for eco-friendly disposable plates but unsure which material is better?
Many businesses and individuals are switching to sustainable food packaging. However, with so many options available, choosing between bagasse plates and cornstarch plates can be confusing. Each has unique benefits and drawbacks, but which one is the best fit for your business?
Bagasse plates are made from sugarcane fibers, while cornstarch plates come from fermented corn starch. Both are biodegradable and compostable, making them excellent alternatives to plastic. However, bagasse plates are more durable and heat-resistant, while cornstarch plates are better suited for light meals.
Both options seem great, right? But let’s dive deeper into their differences so you can make the best decision.
What is Bagasse and Why is it Used for Plates?
Bagasse is the fibrous byproduct left after extracting juice from sugarcane. Instead of discarding it as waste, we transform it into durable, biodegradable plates.
Bagasse plates are:
- Strong and sturdy – They don’t bend or break easily.
- Heat-resistant – They can withstand temperatures up to 200°F (93°C).
- Microwave and freezer-safe – Perfect for hot and cold foods.
- Water and grease-resistant – Ideal for oily or saucy dishes.
These plates decompose in 30 to 90 days, making them one of the fastest biodegradable options.
What are Cornstarch Plates and How Do They Compare?
Cornstarch plates, also known as PLA plates, are made by fermenting corn starch into polylactic acid (PLA). This process creates a plastic-like material that is biodegradable under industrial composting conditions.
Cornstarch plates are:
- Lightweight – Ideal for snacks and dry foods.
- Compostable – Break down in three to six months under the right conditions.
- Water-resistant – Can handle liquids but may soften over time.
- Less heat-resistant – Melts at around 110°F (43°C).
While cornstarch plates look and feel like plastic, they don’t pollute the environment like traditional plastic does.
Which One is More Durable?
Durability is crucial, especially for businesses serving hot and heavy foods. Bagasse plates are the clear winner. They can hold heavy meals without bending or leaking. Cornstarch plates, on the other hand, may soften when exposed to heat or liquids for extended periods.
If you need plates for hot soups, greasy foods, or heavy portions, bagasse is the better choice.
Which One is More Eco-Friendly?
Both materials are biodegradable, but their composting conditions differ. Bagasse plates decompose naturally in home composting, whereas cornstarch plates require industrial composting facilities.
If your customers don’t have access to industrial composting, bagasse plates are the better eco-friendly option.
Cost Comparison: Which is More Affordable?
Pricing varies depending on production and raw materials. Cornstarch plates tend to be more expensive because they rely on corn, which is also used for food production. Bagasse, a byproduct of sugarcane processing, is more cost-effective.
For businesses looking for a budget-friendly yet high-quality option, bagasse plates are the better investment.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you need:
- Sturdy, heat-resistant, and affordable plates → Choose bagasse plates.
- Lightweight, plastic-like, and compostable plates → Choose cornstarch plates.
For most food businesses, bagasse plates offer better durability, affordability, and sustainability. That’s why we at HMZ Technology recommend bagasse tableware to our clients worldwide.
Conclusion
Both bagasse and cornstarch plates are great alternatives to plastic, but bagasse plates stand out for their strength, affordability, and ease of composting. They offer better versatility for food businesses, making them the preferred choice for many of our customers.
Ready to make the switch? Explore our custom bagasse tableware solutions today!
