Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, palm leaf plates are completely safe for food contact. They are made from naturally fallen palm leaves that undergo a heat-pressing process without any chemicals or additives. They are FDA approved and meet all food safety standards. The natural oils in palm leaves provide antimicrobial properties, making them naturally hygienic.

Composting times vary by material and conditions:

• Palm leaf plates: 2-3 months in commercial composting, 6-8 months in home composting
• Bamboo products: 3-4 months in commercial facilities
• Wooden cutlery: 4-6 months depending on wood type and thickness
• PLA-based products: 3-6 months in commercial composting facilities with proper temperature and humidity

Most of our products are designed to handle hot foods and beverages:

• Palm leaf plates: Safe up to 200°F (93°C)
• Bamboo products: Heat resistant up to 180°F (82°C)
• PLA-lined cups: Suitable for beverages up to 185°F (85°C)
• Wooden cutlery: Heat resistant and won't conduct heat to your hands

Always check specific product specifications for exact temperature limits.

Yes, many of our products are both microwave and freezer safe:

• Microwave safe: Palm leaf plates, sugarcane fiber plates, and bamboo products can be safely microwaved for reheating
• Freezer safe: Sugarcane fiber products and some PLA-based items can withstand freezer temperatures
• Not recommended: Wooden cutlery should not be microwaved as it may crack or splinter

Always refer to individual product guidelines for specific usage instructions.

Biodegradable means a product can break down naturally over time through biological processes. However, this doesn't specify timeframe or end results.

Compostable is more specific - it means the product will break down in a composting environment within a specific timeframe (usually 90-180 days) and leave no toxic residue. Compostable materials actually become nutrient-rich compost that benefits soil.

All our products are compostable, which means they meet the higher standard of breaking down completely and safely in composting facilities.

Yes, we specialize in connecting businesses with suppliers who offer competitive bulk pricing for:

• Restaurants and cafes
• Catering companies
• Event planners and venues
• Corporate dining facilities
• Educational institutions

Contact us with your specific needs, and we'll provide you with custom quotes from our network of certified suppliers. Bulk orders typically offer significant cost savings compared to retail pricing.

While eco-friendly products may have a slightly higher upfront cost, they offer significant long-term value:

• Cost reduction: Avoid potential plastic disposal fees and environmental taxes
• Brand value: Attract eco-conscious customers willing to pay premium prices
• Bulk savings: Our bulk pricing makes sustainable options very competitive
• Future-proofing: Avoid potential plastic bans and regulations

Many of our clients find that the marketing and customer satisfaction benefits offset any price difference.

Our products are designed for composting rather than traditional recycling:

• Composting preferred: All our products are designed to be composted, which is more environmentally beneficial than recycling
• Municipal programs: Some cities accept compostable materials in their organic waste programs
• Not for recycling bins: These products should not go in regular plastic or paper recycling bins as they can contaminate the recycling stream
• Home composting: Many products can be composted at home in a well-managed compost pile

We provide composting guidelines with all orders to ensure proper disposal.

We work exclusively with suppliers whose products carry relevant certifications:

• FDA Approved: All food-contact products meet FDA safety standards
• ASTM D6400: Compostability certification for applicable products
• BPI Certified: Biodegradable Products Institute certification
• FSC Certified: Forest Stewardship Council certification for wood products
• USDA BioPreferred: Recognition for bio-based content
• SGS Tested: Third-party safety and quality testing

Certification details are provided with product specifications upon request.

We make the transition easy with our step-by-step approach:

1. Assessment: We evaluate your current usage and needs
2. Product matching: Recommend suitable eco-friendly alternatives
3. Samples: Provide samples for testing with your menu items
4. Staff training: Guidelines for handling and storage
5. Customer communication: Marketing materials to highlight your eco-friendly initiative
6. Ongoing support: Continuous assistance with supply and logistics

Many restaurants start with one category (like plates) and gradually transition all items over 3-6 months.