The Life Cycle of Biodegradable Bags: From Production to Decomposition

Biodegradable bags are increasingly used thanks to their safe decomposition and environmental friendliness. But how is a biodegradable bag formed, used, and broken down? This article helps you understand the full life cycle of biodegradable bags—from production to their return to nature.

What Is the Life Cycle of Biodegradable Bags?

Biodegradable bags are becoming an optimal alternative to traditional plastic bags. However, to use them correctly and maximize their environmental benefits, both users and businesses need to understand the entire life cycle—from production and usage to collection and decomposition. This understanding helps avoid misconceptions, improper use, and ensures optimal natural degradation.

Raw Materials Used to Produce Biodegradable Bags

Biodegradable bags are made from safe materials with the ability to decompose naturally:

• PLA (Polylactic Acid): Extracted from corn and sugarcane. This is a popular material due to its environmental friendliness and good durability.

• PHA and PBS: Biopolymers that decompose quickly under the action of microorganisms in soil or industrial environments.

• Natural starch: Derived from cassava, tapioca, or corn, helping bags decompose more easily and reducing CO₂ emissions during production.

Food-Safe Material Standards

To ensure safety for food contact, biodegradable bags must comply with strict international standards:

• FDA (United States): Certifies materials approved for direct food contact without toxic migration.

• EU Regulation 10/2011: Specifies chemical migration limits in food packaging to ensure consumer safety.

• EN 13432: A European standard requiring full decomposition within 180 days in industrial composting conditions.

• OK Compost / OK Home Compost: Certifies that bags can fully decompose in industrial composting facilities or under home composting conditions.

Production Process of Biodegradable Bags

The life cycle of a biodegradable bag typically begins with a production process consisting of four main steps:

1. Processing biopolymer materials: Starch or PLA/PHA is processed into bioplastic pellets.

2. Extrusion and film blowing: The material is melted and extruded into thin films.

3. Cutting – sealing – shaping: The film is cut to size, handles are formed, and seams are sealed.

4. Quality inspection: Testing durability, thickness, decomposition capability, and safety standards.

Biodegradation Process

When placed in suitable environments, biodegradable bags naturally decompose through the following stages:

• First, the bag absorbs moisture, allowing microorganisms to attach to its surface.

• Next, the polymer structure breaks down into smaller molecules, making it easier for microorganisms to consume and fully decompose them.

• Finally, these molecules are converted into CO₂, water, and organic biomass, leaving no microplastics or toxic residues.

See More: Comparison of the benefits and drawbacks of biodegradable plastic bags

Decomposition Timeframes

• 3–6 months in industrial composting conditions under EN 13432 standards.

• 6–12 months in natural environments, depending on humidity, temperature, and microbial activity.

Life Cycle Comparison: Biodegradable Bags vs. Traditional Plastic Bags

Factors Affecting the Life Cycle of Biodegradable Bags

The life cycle of biodegradable bags varies depending on environmental conditions and handling. Key factors include:

• Humidity: Higher moisture supports microbial activity and faster decomposition; dry conditions slow it down.

• Temperature: Higher temperatures (within limits) accelerate microbial growth and decomposition; colder environments slow the process.

• Microbial density: Microorganism-rich environments, such as industrial compost, speed up decomposition.

• Material composition: PLA, PHA, PBS, and starch-based materials decompose at different rates; purer biobased materials degrade faster.

• Bag thickness and size: Thicker and larger bags take longer to decompose, which is why EN 13432 specifies thickness limits.

• Pre-use storage conditions: Prolonged exposure to sunlight, heat, or high humidity can weaken polymer structure and affect product quality and lifespan.

Minh Sang Packaging – Biodegradable Packaging Supplier

Minh Sang packaging is one of the pioneering manufacturers and suppliers of biodegradable packaging in Vietnam. The company specializes in biodegradable bags and recycled eco-friendly packaging, offering customized production with various sizes, thicknesses, and printing options.

With over 15 years of industry experience, Bao Bì Minh Sang is committed to consistent quality, fast delivery, and competitive pricing—making it a reliable partner for businesses transitioning to green packaging and sustainable development.

Conclusion

Understanding the production, usage, and decomposition process helps businesses choose the right packaging solutions and effectively reduce environmental impact. If you are looking for a high-quality biodegradable bag supplier, Bao Bì Minh Sang is a trusted choice, offering internationally certified products at competitive prices.