Let’s be real. When we think of composting straws, images of green garbage cans come to mind. But in actuality, your local waste facility will likely offer a variety of options when it comes to disposing of the plastic stir sticks that have become such a part of our modern food system. The good and the bad, there are so many types of straws that choosing the right kind can be challenging. And even for those who are aware of how much disposable plastic is involved in the production and marketing of straws, it can still be difficult to choose sustainable options. Fortunately, that’s where our list of the top 10 compostable straws comes into play — making it easier than ever before to support eco-consciousness at home and on-the-go.
What are Compostable Straws?
Compostable straws are made from one of a select group of biodegradable plastic materials. They are often made from plants and can be used both as a beverage and food straw. The materials in question are corn, wheat, rice, potato, sorghum, alfalfa, tomatoes, green peas and sweet potatoes. While the non-biodegradable components of some of these materials can affect the way in which they biodegrade, the fact that they are made of organic materials means that they will break down in a landfill or removal agency if they are not properly disposed of. Compostable straws come in various sizes, with the smaller ones being ideal for smaller animals such as puppies and kittens while the larger ones are recommended for larger animals such as horses and livestock. While the amount of plastic used to make a particular size may vary from product to product, most of them are made with a small amount of plastic.
How to use a Compostable Straw
The most important decision you can make when it comes to using a compostable straw is the type. There are a number of different types, with the most common being the compostable paper straw and the biodegradable bamboo straw. Both of these options can be used as a beverage and food straw, and are designed to break down to the ground quickly. If possible, try to choose a compostable straw that is made from a non-plastic material. While it may be more expensive, the alternative is a littered landscape filled with plastic bags and other waste products. If you must use a plastic straw, opt for one that is compostable.
Should You Buy a Plastic Straw or Compostable?
Biological waste when decomposed by bacteria produces gases such as carbon dioxide, water, and biochemical oxygen transfer (BOT) agent. The latter helps to convert the garbage into energy and fertilizer. Gases produced by the breakdown of biodegradable plastics are turned into biogas, which are then captured and burned in the process of conventional biogasification. As a result, both plastic and biodegradable straw are contributing to the production of greenhouse gases and other air pollutants. It is important to keep in mind that different products and use cases may require different types of straws. For example, a soft drink or juice straw would not be appropriate for livestock feed because it would be too soft and too flexible for the task at hand. Likewise, a dairy straw would not be suitable for a feedlot because it would be too easily spilt and its clamps would not withstand the stresses of high production.
Top 10 Biodegradable Straw Companies in the US
While there are many different types of biodegradable plastics available, the vast majority can be composted. The following are the top 10 biodegradable straw companies in the US, as of December 2022.
- Momoio Sugarcane Straws PLA Free
Momoio’s Sugarcane Drinking Straws PLA Free .The perfect alternative to plastic and paper straws as they are:1）100% natural plant-based 2）Biodegradable & Garden Compostable 3）Free from chemical & toxic & plastic 4) Soggy free up to 24 hours 5) Suitable for both hot（90 Degree C) and cold drinks 6) Affordable Price.
- MAIMASHI Reusable Bamboo Drinking Straws
MAIMASHI is a publicly traded company based in Japan. The company manufactures a wide range of consumer products including water bottles, bags, and food ingredients. Its drinking straw product line includes the Reusable Bamboo Drinking Straws and the Reusable Paper Straws.
- WYMOON Biodegradable Boba Straws
WYMOhi is a privately held company based in the United States with origins in Hong Kong. The company is best known for its line of woven, biodegradable bamboo stir sticks.
- The Veggie Straws 100% Biodegradable Unwrapped Straws
Veggie Straws is a leading manufacturer and distributor of technologically advanced and biodegradable cleaning and household products. The company was founded in 2014 with a mission to bring nature to the cities through sustainable technology.
- Phade Jumbo Straws
Phade Jumbo Straws is a privately owned African company with headquarters located in Johannesburg, South Africa. The company was founded in 1996 and specializes in the design and manufacturing of high-quality, affordable animal and human-grade products.
- StrawPanda Biodegradable Drinking Straws
StrawPanda is a privately owned company based in the United States that specializes in the development and production of innovative water and pet drinking straws. The company is dedicated to sustainable living and the environment. - Plasticless 100% Compostable Straws
The Plasticless 100% Compostable Straws is a product line of the same name developed by an American company to promote the idea that consumers should no longer rely on plastic bags and other single-use disposable products. The Straws are made from vegetable-based polymers, are clear, and come in a variety of sizes.
- Equo Sugarcane Compostable Drinking Straws
The Equo Sugarcane Compostable Drinking Straws is a newly-discontinued product line that was developed by the Italian company Eqo for use in Southwest Asia, specifically in the Middle East. The current range includes the Squeeze, Soft Freeze, and Hard Freeze options, which are exclusively produced from sugarcane.
- Famaston Compostable Drinking Straws
The Famaston Compostable Drinking Straws is a new type of plastic straw developed by the French company Famatre that is said to be a perfect match for the growing trend towards healthier eating. The straw is made from shoots, flowers, and other plant materials, and is compostable and water-repellent.
- Hiware Biodegradable Paper Straws
The Hiware Biodegradable Paper Straws is a newly-discontinued product line that was developed by the Japanese company Hiware for use in Asia. The current range includes the Standard and Mini options, which are both made from rice paper.
Slutsats
Eco-friendly options are becoming more common, and now more than ever it is important to make sure you are choosing the right option when it comes to straws. There are a number of different types of biodegradable straws on the market, and each one has distinct advantages and disadvantages. The key here is to choose the right type for the right application. There are many different types of biodegradable plastic available, and the correct one for your needs should be relatively easy to find.
