If you're planning a party, running a café, or stocking up for a catering job, one of the first decisions you'll hit is plates. Bagasse or plastic? Both are practical, both come in bulk packs, and both show up constantly in searches for disposable tableware — but they're built for different jobs. Here's how to actually choose.
What bagasse plates are
Bagasse is the fibrous pulp left over after sugarcane is pressed for juice — a genuine by-product, not a crop grown specifically for packaging. It's moulded into sturdy, plate-shaped fibre that's naturally compostable and completely plastic-free.
Good for:
- Hot food — bagasse handles heat well without warping
- Events where "eco-friendly" matters to your guests or your brand
- Multi-compartment serving (keeping foods separated on one plate)
- One-time use followed by composting, not washing up
Worth knowing:
- Slightly more rigid than plastic, but not designed for repeated washing and reuse
- A step up in cost per plate compared to basic plastic options
What plastic plates are
Heavy duty plastic plates are built for strength and, in many cases, genuine reusability — wash them, stack them, use them again for the next event.
Good for:
- Larger gatherings where you want plates that can be reused across multiple events
- Heavier or saucier food that needs a rigid, leak-resistant plate
- Keeping costs down on a big order
Worth knowing:
- Not compostable — if sustainability is a priority for your event, bagasse is the better fit
- Reusable plastic still needs washing between uses if you're planning to reuse it
Quick decision guide
- Hosting an eco-conscious event, or catering for a business with sustainability commitments? Go with bagasse.
- Serving hot mains that need real structural support? Bagasse or heavy duty plastic both hold up well.
- Planning to reuse plates across several events to cut long-term cost? Heavy duty plastic.
- Serving lighter food (sandwiches, cake, sides) for a casual gathering? Either works — bagasse if compostability matters to you.
Sizing your order
A common question we get: how many plates do you actually need? As a rough guide, budget for slightly more than your headcount to cover second helpings and any last-minute extra guests — most of our packs come in bulk sizes (50 or 100) specifically because parties and catering jobs rarely need a round, exact number.
Browse both ranges
- Eco Range — our full bagasse and compostable tableware selection
- Plates & Bowls — bagasse and plastic side by side, so you can compare directly
Not sure which fits your specific event or order size? Get in touch and we're happy to help you figure it out.
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