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5 Disposable Silverware Sets That Are Fully Biodegradable and Plastic-Free

Reusable utensils are best, but sometimes disposable silverware is a necessary evil. These eco-friendly options have minimal environmental impact.

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Published Sept. 16 2024, 3:48 p.m. ET

disposable forks and spoons on a green background
Source: iStock Photo

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It's hard to believe anyone would use disposable plastic cutlery anymore, considering there are so many great alternatives.The ideal choice is always reusable silverware, and it's easy to find portable sets that come in cases for on-the-go dining. But at some point, you're bound to find yourself in a situation where single-use utensils are a necessary evil. For those inevitabilities, there's disposable eco-friendly silverware: plastic-free forks, knives, and spoons that are fully biodegradable and compostable.

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As you might suspect, some resourceful brands have been incredibly creative with the materials they use in their disposable eco-friendly silverware. Renewable bamboo and responsibly sourced wood are among the more expected options, but there's also plant-based materials like cornstarch, sugarcane, and rice fibers. We found five fine examples of sturdy silverware you can use once and then toss in the recycle can or compost bin. Buy a box and keep it on hand for big parties, home renovations, road trips, or any event where traditional silverware simply isn't an option.

Repurpose Compostable Assorted Cutlery - 24 count

Picnic, party of eight! This 24-piece set of FDA-approved, heat-resistant forks, knives, and spoons is made from plant-based (and PFAS-free) materials, including corn. They're built to last ...well, at least through dinner. Afterward, you can compost them at one of the commercial locations here.

If you need disposable cutlery often, Repurpose has a subscription model that lets you save money on monthly deliveries.

$10
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Ibambo Natural Bamboo Disposable Cutlery Flatware - 100 piece

Bamboo is a brilliant choice for disposable utensils, as it's renewable, biodegradable, and naturally antibacterial. The bamboo used in Ibambo cutlery is responsibly sourced. Not only are the utensils compostable, but the FSC-certified cardboard box they come in is too!

"Such a great alternative to plastic silverware! I was a little worried these would splinter but that was definitely not an issue, they are super durable!" wrote a happy shopper.

$17 at Walmart

Treeatery Store Compostable Cutlery Set - 360 count

These very convincing dupes of plastic cutlery by Treeatery are actually made of bioplastic, which is a material derived from plants (in this case, CPLA and PLA from cornstarch). It's naturally heat-resistant and biodegradable, so you can dispose of them without guilt. If you want to stock up, get this set of 360 utensils in your cart.

Treeatery is passionate about preventing deforestation and plants a tree with every purchase.

$42
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The Veggie Straws 100% Biodegradable Spoons - 100 count

Yogurt and cereal lovers, unite! These heavy-duty biodegradable spoons are made completely of responsibly sourced plant fibers including rice and agave, and they're heat-proof up to 300 degrees. We love that The Veggie Straws is focused on fair trade practices.

"Really pleased to have a disposable spoon that isn't bad for the environment, but doesn't splinter or droop. Makes lunches and parties easier to plan. No issues using these for soup, or other liquids," a five-star reviewer wrote.

$18 at Amazon

GreenWorks 7" Heavy-duty Compostable Utensils - 150 count

green box of disposable silverware and a knife, fork, and spoon

Another bioplastics-comprised disposable silverware brand we love is GreenWorks, which makes this set of commercially compostable forks that's perfect for scenarios like having to dole out cake at birthday parties, where you're not so sure you'll get your silverware back!

"I have these at my salon to eat lunch on the go and they’re great, very sturdy," wrote a fan.

$17 (was $20) at Amazon

Earth's Natural Alternative 100% Compostable Cutlery Set - 50 count

What a concept: 50 sets of spoon-fork-knife trios made from plant starch, which is biodegradable and compostable, each individually wrapped in a napkin that's unbleached and dye-free. Both the cutlery and napkins by Earth's Natural Alternative are fully compostable.

"I used these items for my daughter’s baby shower. She’s super environmentally aware and setting the table with this brand item was the perfect touch!" a proud parent wrote.

$23 (was $25) at Amazon
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