Polymeric compositions are provided that include a furan 2,5-di-ester or tetrahydrofuran 2,5-di-ester plasticizer. The plasticizer has low odor, has good compatibility with a variety of polymers such as hydrophilic polymeric materials, and can be formed from renewable resources. Further, the plasticizer can be used at temperatures often encountered during hot melt processing of polymeric compositions.