As populations continue to grow, the food industry has struggled to find a solution to the massive amount of waste produced by human consumption. From plastic food packaging to candy wrappers, it's no surprise that the US alone produces 290 million tons of rubbish - that's over 9 pounds a second. A staggering majority of this trash is either burned or buried in landfills, while only one-quarter is recycled. 

Although it sounds ridiculous, it's true the way it's damaging our environment, ocean, and even the air we breathe needs to be stopped soon, or it could be way worse than we think. We talked to a few businesses, and to them, china plates and cutlery are the most sensible option for businesses, but the cost and effort of washing them are just too much. So, what should be done?

Fortunately, there are now ways for caterers, chefs, restaurateurs, and hoteliers to reduce their environmental footprint without breaking the bank. Options such as biodegradable tableware are becoming more available and affordable, giving businesses a chance to be more conscious and make a difference. How about we start from the basics all the way to discussing the six benefits of using biodegradable plates? Are you ready? Let's get started!

What Do Biodegradable Plates Include?

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Environmentally conscious consumers can choose plates made from natural materials such as bamboo, sugarcane, palm leaves, and corn starch, which are all compostable and biodegradable. Not only are they environmentally friendly, but they come in various styles and sizes that are perfect for every event, be it a family picnic or pickup orders. From elegant dinner plates to sturdy lunch plates, biodegradable plates will help you go green and make a positive impact on the environment.

Why Switch To Biodegradable Plates?

The world's landfills and oceans are sadly filled with a significant amount of plastic food packaging. Well, it is mainly because plastic is a cheap and accessible material with the convenience of single-use disposables. However, plastic takes a long time to decompose, and we must address the environmental impacts of its use. Marine wildlife such as seabirds, whales, fishes, and turtles mistaking these foreign objects for food results in starvation as their digestive tracts fill up. 

Moreover, the chemicals present in plastic can cause cancer and other endocrine problems in humans who accidentally ingest it. Furthermore, burning plastic releases carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming. Lastly, the aesthetic value of tourist spots is significantly reduced, leading to a decrease in tourism and economic losses to those who need to clean up the mess. 

We all have a part to play in combating this problem; it may be beneficial to switch to biodegradable and compostable products, which are just as convenient and do not deplete the earth's natural resources. So, shift to using more sustainable materials and be the change we want to see in the world.

6 Benefits of Biodegradable Plates

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Switching to plates, bowls, and utensils that are friendly to the environment is a great way to start improving the environment. However, there is more to it than what meets the eye. So let's look deeper into the advantages of biodegradable cutlery for your food service.

Home Compostable

Do you have your compost? If so, you can turn kitchen and garden waste into something useful for your garden. Not only that, but you can even make money by selling your compost. To make composting more accessible, get eco-friendly plates and cutlery and toss them into your compost bin after use. Make sure no food residue is left on the dishes, and don't add too many at once. 

To make it even more convenient, give your guests a designated spot to discard their biodegradable plates and explain why it's essential. Start today and play your part in building a better environment.

Reduce Carbon Footprint

Biodegradable plates and compostable disposables require less energy to be produced, and the materials used in making them are renewable. For instance, they are typically composed of sugarcane, bamboo, and corn. Also, these biodegradable products are made with an awareness of their carbon footprint, and the manufacturers take steps to reduce the number of greenhouse gases they emit. If you choose to use these plates and cutlery, you will be helping reduce your own carbon footprint as well.

Energy Efficient

Did you know that choosing biodegradable plates and compostable disposables over single-use plastics is more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly? These materials are also renewable, meaning they won't deplete the planet's resources. 

Plus, manufacturers of biodegradable products are usually more conscious of their carbon emissions and more likely to take measures to reduce them. Selecting these eco-friendly products can positively contribute to your carbon footprint.

Non-toxic

For those looking for a safer option to plastic and Styrofoam food packaging, biodegradable disposables are a great choice. Plus, these plates and utensils are plastic-free and created from non-toxic, earth-friendly materials. That means no worrying about harmful chemicals like Bisphenol A leaching into your food when exposed to heat. Let's rock on and stay healthy with biodegradable disposables.

Safe to Use with Microwave

These plates not only won't break and are strong, but you can also conveniently warm up food in the microwave. What separates them from plastic containers or plates is that they don't have any toxins or chemicals seeping into the food. That is because they don't contain chemical treatments, dyes, bleaches, or inks, known to cause toxins and chemicals to get into your food when it's heated or stored for a long. Get steamed hot food on your table within minutes without destroying your health!

Solid & Durable

It's happened to the best of us - plastic forks and spoons snapping in our hands when we're using them. That's why it's a good idea to stock up on dinnerware made from materials like sugarcane pulp, which are heat, weight, and steam resistant. These plates are so sturdy that you don't have to worry about them bending under the weight of heavier foods, and you can even use them with metal utensils and steak knives. That way, you can enjoy your favorite meal without fearing any breaking or snapping of plates, spoons, or forks.

Summary

Well, you don't need to be a die-hard environmentalist to want to leave the world a better place for your children. That's why we at Hefei Craft Tableware provide an excellent selection of sustainable and eco-friendly  tableware. From bagasse food container to covered food trays, bowls, cups and sugarcane cutleries, you'll find everything you need to switch to green products. Plus, you can buy in bulk, with competitive wholesale prices and all. Stop waiting, and start acting to make a difference today!