For the purposes of this Tried and True Product Review — Solo, the makers of BARE (Bringing Alternative Resources for the Environment) dinnerware provided us samples of this new line of “eco-forward” disposable plates and cups.

So, what products did we try and what do we think?

• We tried BARE by Solo’s compostable dinner, lunch and dessert plates, (pictured above, right)
• We loved the texture; you can cut food on the plate without tearing the surface; we liked the unusual shape, sizes and neutral color.
• They’re sturdy yet lightweight; and microwavable, too.
• Eco upsides: comprised of plant-based renewable materials, sugarcane.  Up and downside: although compostable in a commercial composting facility, “such a facility may not be available in your community.”  As explained to me, ” The Bare by Solo plates and cups have been certified as compostable in a commercial composting facility which means they will break down 90% within 180 days under those conditions. In a backyard composter, it may take longer. The reason Solo only is certified for commercial composting facilities is that there currently is no certification for home composting because conditions vary greatly from one backyard composter to the next.”
• The plates (pictured above, left) are made of renewable plant-based material but they do contain some traditional plastic, derived from petro chemicals.  They’re not compostable.

(above, L to R)

18 oz. Clear Recycled Content Cups:

• They look like your typical large disposable cup, but they feel different – they feel great.  The “clear” is not crystal clear; it has a pleasant, slightly smoky cast.
• Eco upsides:  made from 20 percent post-consumer recycled plastic, (bottle grade #1 plastic).  They can be recycled in most communities that accept plastic water bottles.

14 oz. Oatmeal Colored Compostable Cups:

• We like the creamy beige color, and they’re a convenient size.
• They’re made from bio-based resins (“made from plants like corn”) and are compostable at “most commercial composting facilities.”

For summertime picnics, when transporting glass or china is impractical, BARE by Solo dinnerware is a good alternative to traditional paper and plastic ware.  Is the Bare line perfect? No. We hope that someday all the products will be made of 100% post-consumer recycled plastic, or entirely from biobased resins; made in the USA; and easily compostable.  Is the BARE line a step in the right direction?  Yes.  Eco forward, but not 100% eco friendly. Also Note:  it’s made in China.

To find these products in a store near you, visit barebysolo.com and enter your zip code in the Find a Retailer toolbar.