PLA-based polymers are considered readily biodegradable materials through composting. However, our results showed that samples from commercially produced injection molded PLA pots evolved only 13% of initial carbon as carbon during 60 days at 58 C. NIR spectral results suggest that PLA in this biopolymer undergoes chemical changes during polymer extrusion and molding. These chemical changes may inhibit biodegradation. Feather fiber differed from other bioplastic components because it was not easily degraded under the conditions utilized in this study. Inoculation with keratinase producing microbes may improve feather fiber polymer biodegradability.