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Dishware – Biobased Availability
Question: Where can we find biobased dishware that meet the criteria?

Response: In the USDA catalog under "Food Services/Cafeteria."

Question: How can we verify the takeout dishware meets biobased requirements and does not contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance) chemicals?

Response: Check the Center for Environmental Health's Database of Single-Use Foodware.

Dishware - Durables versus Disposables
Question: For service in the cafeteria (as opposed to take-out service), is disposable dishware more cost effective than durable dishware?

Response: Generally no. Previous Pollution Prevention Opportunity Assessments (PPOA) have shown that including the purchase of the dishware, a dishwasher, and staff time, using durable dishware for onsite service pays for itself in less than a year's time. Because of a wide variety of conditions, however, it is best to conduct a PPOA specific to your site.

Dishware - Biobased Cost
Question: Is there biobased dishware available at a price comparable to non-biobased dishware?

Response: Not at this time, but some factors to consider are:

  • Reduce costs by using durable dishware for onsite service and only purchase biobased dishware for offsite service.
  • Compost the biobased dishware and, thereby, reduce disposal costs. To compost, however, the dishware must go to a composting facility. Even compostable dishware will not compost in a landfill.

Dishware – Biodegradable/Compostable
Question: Is there a requirement for DOE sites to purchase biodegradable dishware?

Response: No, however, biobased products tend to be more biodegradable than petroleum-based products. To ensure a product will decompose in a composting facility, purchase either Biodegradable Products Institute or Compost Manufacturing Alliance certified products.

Question: If the take-out dishware is certified compostable, will it decompose when we send it to the landfill?

Response: No. Biodegradability has as much to do with the location (landfill or compost pile) as the type of material the product is made of. If your site has a compost pile or service, it could reduce disposal costs by breaking down the dishware into compost. Sending biodegradable dishware to the landfill, would neither reduce cost nor biodegrade.

Composting on site can include the traditional grounds and cafeteria debris or it can be a composter specifically designed for cafeterias. If composting on site is not a possibility, you might consider using/helping establish a regional composting facility.


For DOE Sustainable Acquisition questions, contact Shab Fardanesh (202-586-7011).

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