Global Biodegradable Cutlery Market Size to Reach USD 69.3 Million by 2033, Growing at a CAGR of 3.98% from 2025 to 2033, - IMARC Group

Global Biodegradable Cutlery Market Statistics, Outlook and Regional Analysis 2025-2033

The global biodegradable cutlery market size was valued at USD 46.9 Million in 2024, and it is expected to reach USD 69.3 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.98% from 2025 to 2033.

The growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility is driving significant changes in the biodegradable cutlery market. Innovative solutions are emerging to address these concerns as consumers increasingly seek alternatives to single-use plastics. For instance, in February 2024, Emirati entrepreneur Lamis Al Hashimy launched Palmade, a company that produces eco-friendly cutlery made from discarded date palm leaves. This biodegradable and compostable cutlery represents the appearance and functionality of plastic, making it an appealing choice for hotels and supermarkets in the UAE. Al Hashimy's initiative not only promotes local resources but also aims to expand into Asian and European markets, highlighting a broader trend towards leveraging indigenous materials to combat plastic waste. In contrast, development in this trend is the introduction of the first biodegradable cardboard spoon by Biohz in November 2023. It is designed to degrade within 12 to 18 months. This innovative product features an ergonomic handle and is suitable for direct food contact, addressing key consumer concerns about environmental impact and usability. As plastic cutlery typically takes over 400 years to decompose, Biohz’s solution supports a growing demand for sustainable consumer choices, reinforcing the idea that eco-friendly alternatives can meet both environmental and practical needs.

Moreover, major retailers are responding to this demand by expanding their product offerings. In September 2023, Walmart launched great value compostable cutlery, a 100% commercially compostable private brand available in 1,400 stores across North America. Offered in both 24- and 48-count packs, this cutlery is BPI-certified and produced in partnership with BeyondGREEN, emphasizing a commitment to sustainability. Walmart plays an important role in fostering a consumer culture that prioritizes environmental stewardship by making compostable options readily available and affordable. This combination of local entrepreneurial initiatives and corporate responsibility exemplifies the shift toward a more sustainable cutlery market, where innovative products are meeting the urgent needs of both consumers and the planet.

Global Biodegradable Cutlery Market Statistics, By Region

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Europe dominates the biodegradable cutlery market due to its strong regulatory framework and consumer awareness surrounding environmental issues.

North America Biodegradable Cutlery Market Trends:

In North America, the trend toward biodegradable cutlery is gaining momentum as cities implement bans on single-use plastics, prompted businesses to shift to eco-friendly options. Companies like World Centric are responding with compostable cutlery made from plant-based materials, such as cornstarch. This shift aligns with consumer preferences for sustainable products and reflects the North America’s regulatory focus on reducing plastic waste in restaurants and events.

Europe Biodegradable Cutlery Market Trends:

In Europe, stringent regulations aimed at reducing single-use plastics, prompting both consumers and businesses to seek sustainable alternatives in biodegradable cutlery market. In this context, the recent partnership between Matrix Pack and PulPac to produce Dry Molded Fiber cutlery, expected by early 2025, highlights the industry's commitment to innovation and sustainability. This initiative aims to replace single-use plastics with cost-efficient and environmentally friendly options, aligning perfectly with growing consumer demand for biodegradable products. The demand for such innovative solutions continues to rise as European consumers become increasingly eco-conscious, further solidifying Europe’s leadership in the market.

Asia Pacific Biodegradable Cutlery Market Trends:

Asia Pacific’s biodegradable cutlery industry is expanding rapidly, driven by increasing urbanization and environmental awareness, especially in countries like China and India. Also, local companies are producing cutlery from locally sourced materials, like rice husk and bamboo, to meet rising demand. These alternatives are becoming popular in fast-food chains and local eateries with governments encouraging for sustainable practices, aligning with regional eco-conscious movements.

Latin America Biodegradable Cutlery Market Trends:

In Latin America, the biodegradable cutlery market is driven by strong community-based sustainability initiatives and growing concerns over plastic pollution. Brands like Biofase, based in Mexico, use avocado seeds to create compostable cutlery, which has gained traction due to its affordability and environmental benefits. Latin American consumers increasingly seek these options at street food markets and eco-conscious establishments, reflecting a cultural shift toward sustainable living.

Middle East and Africa Biodegradable Cutlery Market Trends:

The Middle East and Africa see a growing interest in biodegradable cutlery as governments and corporations promote sustainable solutions. Countries like the UAE are leading the charge, with restaurants adopting cutlery made from materials like palm leaves to meet eco-friendly demands. This trend aligns with regional efforts to reduce waste in the hospitality and tourism sectors, catering to environmentally aware tourists and locals alike.

Top Companies Leading in the Biodegradable Cutlery Industry

Some of the leading biodegradable cutlery market companies include BioGreenChoice Corp., Bionatic GmbH & Co. KG, Biotrem, Eco Guardian, Eco-Products Inc., Huhtamäki Oyj, NatureHouse Green Products Inc., and Vegware, among many others. In June 2023, Eco Guardian announced its partnership with iLevel Management Inc. to distribute its top-quality, compostable tableware products across Canada. Also, in January 2022, Bionatic GmbH & Co. KG announced their fire-based cutlery, which is an innovative solution crafted from sustainable materials designed to biodegrade naturally after use, reducing environmental impact while offering practicality and convenience.

Global Biodegradable Cutlery Market Segmentation Coverage

• On the basis of the product, the market has been bifurcated into spoon, fork, knife, and others, wherein spoon represents the most preferred segment. It is widely utilized for soups, stews, desserts, or beverages, which accommodates numerous culinary needs, making it a staple in casual and formal dining scenarios.
• Based on the raw material, the market is categorized into wood, husk, paper, plastic, and others, amongst which plastic dominates the market. This plastic, derived from renewable sources such as cornstarch, sugarcane, or potato starch, is gaining remarkable traction within the market.
• On the basis of the type, the market has been divided into PLA, CPLA, and starch blends. Among these, PLA exhibits a clear dominance in the market. It is a bio-based polymer derived from renewable resources such as cornstarch or sugarcane, which is gaining attention for its impressive blend of functionality and eco-friendliness.
• Based on the application, the market is bifurcated into hotel, catering, and others. Biodegradable cutlery is widely adopted in hotels, catering, and other sectors, addressing environmental concerns by providing sustainable alternatives that align with industry efforts to minimize single-use plastic waste.
• On the basis of the distribution channel, the market is segmented into online and offline. Currently, offline accounts for the majority of the total market share. Offline distribution channels include brick-and-mortar stores, supermarkets, specialty shops, and food service establishments. These channels offer a tangible shopping experience, allowing consumers to assess and select biodegradable cutlery products physically.