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Disposable Cups: The Problem with Styrofoam and Plastic Linings
Styrofoam Cups (Polystyrene):
Styrofoam cups are made from polystyrene, a petroleum-derived plastic that can leach toxic chemicals—especially when exposed to heat, acid (like coffee), or alcohol. The main compound of concern, styrene, is classified by the EPA and World Health Organization as a probable human carcinogen. These cups are also non-biodegradable and can persist in the environment for centuries, breaking down into harmful microplastics.
Plastic-Lined Paper Cups:
While they appear safer, most paper to-go cups are lined with a thin layer of polyethylene plastic (PE) to prevent leaks. When exposed to hot liquids, these linings can release microplastics and chemical residues into beverages. Some also contain PFAS (so-called "forever chemicals") used for liquid resistance—substances linked to hormone disruption, immune effects, and cancer. These cups are not compostable or recyclable in most facilities due to the plastic-paper fusion.
The Best Non-Toxic, Compostable Cups
$34.95
Repurpose's 12 oz Compostable Hot & Cold Cups are an excellent choice for those seeking an eco-friendly and non-toxic alternative to traditional disposable cups. They feature a water-based lining, eliminating the need for plastic or PLA, and are certified compostable, BPA-free, and PFAS-free, ensuring safety for both users and the environment.
$29.95
Eco Soul Compostable Cups
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100% plant-based
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PFAS-free and plastic-free
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Certified compostable, which requires meeting strict material safety standards
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Does not contain styrene or petroleum by-products
What about disposable plates?
Even without hot liquids, Styrofoam, plastic, and paper plates can expose you to chemicals—especially when used with warm, greasy, or acidic foods.
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Styrofoam plates can leach styrene, a possible carcinogen, particularly with heat or oily foods. They also break down into harmful microplastics.
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Plastic plates may release plasticizers and additives, especially when heated. Colored or printed versions can contain hormone-disrupting chemicals.
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Paper plates often contain plastic or PFAS coatings to resist leaks and grease. These coatings can leach into food, even at moderate temperatures.
$16.99
Bamboo
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Non-toxic & natural: Made entirely from bamboo—no plastic, PFAS, bleaches, waxes, or coatings.
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Biodegradable: Fully compostable in industrial settings; breaks down naturally.
$31.80
Palm Leaf
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100% natural areca palm leaves – made only from fallen leaves, not harvested trees
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No chemical treatments, no bleach, no dyes, no glues, and no waxes
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USDA-certified biodegradable & compostable
$26.80
Sugar Cane
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Made from upcycled sugarcane fiber — fully compostable and plastic-free
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No PFAS, dyes, or chemical coatings — just natural plant fiber
$21.90
$23.99
$16.99
Cutlery
Plastic cutlery may be convenient, but it poses a serious threat to the environment. Most disposable forks, knives, and spoons are made from petroleum-based plastics like polystyrene or polypropylene, which are not biodegradable. These utensils often end up in landfills, waterways, or oceans, where they can persist for hundreds of years, breaking down into harmful microplastics.
EcoPreps 250‑Piece Compostable Bamboo Cutlery Set
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Made from 100% bamboo, no coatings, BPA‑free and PFAS‑free
$29.96
A well-reviewed set made from 100% birch wood, fully compostable with no coatings or chemicals.
$8.99
The Problem with Regular Plastic Cups (Like SOLO)
Traditional plastic cups, such as those made by SOLO, are usually made from polystyrene or polypropylene—both petroleum-based plastics. These materials can leach chemicals when exposed to heat or sunlight, and they’re not biodegradable.
While some plastic cups are technically recyclable, their shape and food residue often make them ineligible for curbside recycling, so they typically end up in landfills where they persist for hundreds of years.
Because they contribute to plastic pollution and microplastic buildup, regular plastic cups are a high-waste option with no safe or sustainable disposal path in most real-world settings.
PLA cups are made from plants like corn or sugarcane, making them a safer alternative to petroleum-based plastic. They’re BPA-free, PFAS-free, and suitable for cold drinks.
However, PLA cups are only compostable in industrial facilities—they won’t break down in home compost or landfills, and they aren’t recyclable.
Still, if you're going to use plastic cups, PLA is a better choice than traditional plastic or Styrofoam due to its safer materials and lower environmental footprint when properly disposed of.
$19.99
Earth Friendly Picnic
For an earth-friendly picnic or event, choosing plastic-free, compostable tablecloths and trash bags is a simple swap that makes a big impact. Unlike conventional options, which often contain petroleum-based plastics and leave behind microplastic waste, these sustainable alternatives are made from plant-based materials that break down naturally—not in centuries.
𝟭𝟬𝟬% 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗣𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗟𝗦: These white tablecloths for rectangle tables are made from 100% plastic-free materials.
$19.99
BioBags are made from the starches of plants, vegetable oils and fully compostable polymers.