Do quality compostable packing bags have a shelf life?
Unlike most plastics, quality compostable packing bags materials are designed to have a shelf life. They won't start composting spontaneously on the shelf or in your warehouse, but over time the compostable polymer will weaken and factors like sealing and lamination strength will start to deteriorate. In general, quality compostable packing bags have a material shelf life of 18 months before that happens. However, this is affected by atmospheric conditions such as heat and humidity; in hot and humid climates, this shelf life is shortened. We recommend storing quality compostable packing bags in dry climate-controlled conditions as a best practice to ensure extended shelf life.

How long does it take for a quality compostable packing bag to degrade?
The time it takes for a quality compostable packing bag to degrade depends on the conditions of the composting environment. Industrial or commercial composting facilities operate at higher temperatures, and certification protocols require materials to biodegrade within six months. Home composting is more variable and depends on external factors such as temperature, humidity and turnover frequency. Home composting certification requires materials to biodegrade within 12 months at temperatures around 30°C.