We know it’s hard to believe Ridyaa dinnerware is intended for single-use, but our line is actually fully biodegradable and compostable. Because we do not use any bonding agents, lacquers or chemicals and our product is natural and porous, we cannot legally recommend washing and reusing Ridyaa. We can, however, tell you that our customers often write in that they hand wash the plates to enjoy them time and again.
Yes! Our products are completely non-toxic because we only use leaves and water in the process.
No. ECOZEN products won’t alter the taste of your food in any way. Additionally, the issue of food leaching is diminished since no lacquers are used in the process (which is a problem plastics or PLA plastics/bioplastics face)
Our planet is drowning in garbage. Each year, it’s estimated we generate about 2.6 trillion pounds of waste. When not properly disposed, trash pollutes the environment and kills wildlife. Even in landfills, garbage does not just disappear. Inorganic materials like plastic and styrofoam can take up to 1,000 years to decompose and leach harmful chemicals in the soil. Our environment can only take so much. As populations rise and consumption increases, only sustainable choices made everyday by informed individuals will make a difference.
Our palm leaf products are made from the naturally fallen leaf of the areca palm tree. Technically, the palm leaf has several parts. We use the strong, thick end of the leaf that connects to the tree, called the sheath. Though imprecise, “sheath” is commonly omitted when referring to palm leaf dinnerware.
Fallen palm leaves are collected, dried, and pressure washed. Then, using a hydraulic press, each leaf is cut and molded into a desired form. From there, the dishes are inspected and sorted for quality, and treated with high heat for retaining shape and sturdiness. Finally, the dishes are sanitized with UV light before packing.
Our palm leaf products are manufactured in Shimoga, a district in the south western part of India.
Just like any leaf, no two palm leaf dishes are the exact same. The color and texture of our products varies according to natural and environmental conditions.
Our palm leaf dishes are lightweight but strong enough to be mistaken as wood. They are suitable for heavy meals, hot and cold foods, and liquids of all types.
Yes. Our dishes are intended for single-use, but may be gently hand-washed. Avoid submerging in water and dry facedown. Minor warping may occur.
Our palm leaf dishes are oven safe at 325 °F for up to 45 minutes. Higher temperatures may be achieved, but please use caution.
Yes. Our palm leaf dishes may be placed in the microwave for up to 2 minutes on high.
Many compostable products such as bioplastics require high temperatures and commercial facilities to efficiently decompose. By comparison, palm leaf dishes may be composted in DIY setups in your home or backyard where temperatures are not as high. Expect the dishes to decompose in about 6 to 8 weeks.
Please dispose of your palm leaf dishes in the regular trash. Palm leaf products will decompose normally in a landfill and at a much faster rate than plastic. Note that palm leaf products may be safely added to any fire similar to wood or paper.
Many compostable goods available on the market today require significant energy and resources to manufacture. Bagasse, a byproduct of sugar production, is made from a complex process that includes pulping and bleaching. Bioplastics require a dizzying array of chemicals and vary widely in their ability to efficiently decompose. Traditional paper and bamboo require cutting and clearing. By comparison, the process to produce palm leaf dishes is remarkably simple. Fallen palm leaves are essentially cleaned and shaped and are ready for use. Whichever product you choose, we support your sustainable decision.
Composting is the best way to dispose of most organic materials including palm leaf dishes. It returns vital nutrients to the ground while diverting waste from landfills and reducing greenhouse gases. Recycling also benefits the environment, but it gets complicated when food is introduced. Many plastics like styrofoam as well as soiled paper products like pizza boxes are not recyclable. Please check with your local recycling program to ensure your items may be successfully recycled.
No. Our palm leaf products are made from the leaf of the areca palm tree. Palm oil, which is linked to mass deforestation, is harvested from a completely different variety of palm tree.
Not directly. Areca palm trees are native to India and are grown for their seed. This seed, known as areca nut or betel nut, is a key ingredient in the popular tobacco-like product called paan. For centuries, farmers have grown areca palm trees for this purpose, and fallen palm leaves are considered a byproduct of this much larger industry.
Yes minimum 20ft container. Send us a message and we will do our best to accommodate your request.