In this paper an overview of novel biodegradable polymers for food packaging is presented. The aim was to present factors influencing polymer degradation and biodegradation in various environments. It was noted that biodegradable polymers are an imperfect alternative for classical polymers and their decomposition strongly depends on degradation environment. It was also shown that there are various approaches in different countries to certification of biodegradable polymer materials, which rather complicates its application than promotes it.