Frequently asked questions about disposable palm leaf dinnerware
Is palm leaf tableware eco-friendly and sustainable?
- Our palm leaf tableware is made from naturally fallen leaves. Instead of going to landfill or being burnt, the leaves are used to make beautiful tableware. Then, the palm leaf products break down naturally as compost.
- No chemicals or artificial binders are used in the manufacturing process.
- No trees are harmed or cut down.
Are palm leaf plates organic?
Palm leaf plates are 100% organic as they are made from natural byproducts. No chemicals, toxins or binding agents are used in the manufacturing process.
Why do my products come in plastic packaging?
This is a common question many of our customers have.
Made from dried leaves, palm leaf products naturally absorb moisture from the surrounding environment. The plastic packaging prevents the build-up of moisture and stops the leaves from getting moldy.
We have tried plant-based compostable packaging in the past, but the results have been far from successful. We continue to invest time and money in researching alternatives to plastic packaging and would also love to hear any suggestions from our customers.
Are palm plates the same as bamboo plates?
Palm plates are often confused with bamboo plates as they are both plant-based and have a woody finish. Bamboo plates are made from bamboo shoots that are cut down for making plates. A commonly used technique involves gluing together thin sheets of bamboo to make sturdy plates.
Palm plates, on the other hand, are made from the fallen leaves of Areca palm trees. The plates are made solely from leaves without the need for artificial adhesives. No harm is inflicted on the palm trees that produce the leaves.
Is our palm leaf tableware compostable?
Yes. the tableware is 100% compostable in backyard composting bins. Palm leaf tableware can fully decompose in 6 to 8 weeks. Compostable products leave behind nutrient rich compost instead of filling up landfills.
I don’t have a compost bin. How can I dispose of used plates, bowls, etc.?
In the absence of home compost bins, tableware can be disposed of in regular trash or food waste where they will decompose naturally in a landfill.
Why are there colour variations, dark streaks and splotches on the products?
No two leaves are the same, which means no two palm leaf dishes are the same. Each plate/bowl is different with its own unique personality. The colour variations, streaks and splotches are absolutely normal and are due to the natural variations in the leaves.
How do your dishes smell and do they change the taste of food?
We do not use any chemicals to alter the natural properties of the leaves, hence there may be a mild woody scent to palm dishes (the smell of dried palm leaves). However, this does not interfere with the smell or taste of food.
Are our plates microwave and oven safe?
We have tested leaf plates in microwave for 2 minutes at 800W and in the oven for 30 minutes at 180-degree C. Please note they are not suitable for direct use in fire or high temperatures.
Are our products fridge and freezer safe?
Yes, our palm leaf products are fridge and freezer safe.
Where can I use disposable dinnerware?
Our palm leaf dinnerware can be used anywhere where plastic or paper disposables are used. They are a perfect choice for weddings, catering events, birthday parties, barbecues, picnics and garden parties. They are highly functional, sturdy and elegant and can be used anywhere where it is practical to use disposable tableware, even to minimise dinner party waste.
Are the plates and bowls sturdy?
If it is your first time using palm bowls and plates, you will be surprised at how sturdy they are. They are stronger than most plastic and paper plates available in the market and you can confidently hold your food with one hand.
Can I clean and reuse palm leaf products?
Palm leaf products are designed for one-time use, however many of our customers have said they have reused them. The fact that they are so sturdy makes it hard to throw them away after just one use. When used with non-sticky/non-greasy food, the plates and bowls can be wiped clean/washed, dried and reused.
Should I wash the tableware before first use?
Not required, our dishes come pre-washed and treated under high temperatures.
Can I serve hot and cold food in disposable dinnerware?
Absolutely, our palm leaf tableware is heat and cold resistant making it suitable for hot and cold foods. The thick walls prevent extreme temperatures being passed on to your hands or lap.
Are palm leaf products linked to palm oil?
No, our palm leaf products are made from Areca palm trees. Palm oil, widely linked with deforestation, is from a variety of palm tree called Oil Palm found mainly in Indonesia and Malaysia.
Is deforestation involved in the manufacturing of your tableware?
No. Areca palm trees are grown in existing plantations for their edible nut and other useful by-products. Our tableware is made from palm leaves that naturally fall from the trees, so you can be sure that no trees are harmed or cut down. It is renewable, compostable, and biodegradable while protecting against deforestation. The more products that are produced using sustainable methods, the less virgin wood forests are destroyed.
Can I place wholesale or bulk orders?
Yes, please visit our wholesale and bulk orders page or write to us using the contact form.