Are PLA-lined cups safe?
Aug 12, 2025
What Is PLA?
PLA stands for Polylactic Acid, a biodegradable polymer made from renewable resources such as corn starch, sugarcane, or cassava. When used as a thin lining inside paper cups, PLA replaces the petroleum-based PE (polyethylene) coating traditionally used in disposable cups.
This lining makes the cup:
Leak-resistant
Durable for hot and cold beverages
Compostable under industrial composting conditions
Applications
PLA-coated paper cups are used in cafes, milk tea shops, juice bars, corporate events, music festivals, and airline catering, ensuring safety and environmental sustainability.
How to choose the right PLA-coated paper cup?
1. Determine the beverage type and temperature based on your needs.
Recommendations include:
Hot drinks (coffee, tea): PLA paper cups above 85°C
Cold drinks (juice, milk tea, iced coffee): Regular PLA paper cups
2. Choose the right capacity
8oz (approximately 240ml): Suitable for small coffee cups or samplers
12oz (approximately 360ml): Regular coffee or milk tea capacity
16oz (approximately 480ml): Large milk tea or iced drinks
3. Pay attention to the quality of the paper and coating.
Is the paperboard FSC-certified to ensure sustainable sourcing?
Is the PLA coating evenly coated to prevent leakage?
4. Branding:
Is custom logos and graphics supported to help with brand promotion.
Our Product Advantages
High-quality Raw Materials: We use premium food-grade PLA, and our paperboard is made from FSC-certified pulp, ensuring sustainable sourcing.
Exquisite Craftsmanship: The surface coating is uniform and leak-proof.
Customization: Customizable logos and designs are available.
Temperature: 85°C (suitable for hot beverages)
Case Study
After switching to our PLA-coated paper cups, an Australian coffee chain not only reduced plastic use by seven tons, but also received positive customer feedback on social media and significantly improved its brand image.
Conclusion
PLA-coated paper cups are safe beverage containers that balance practicality and environmental value. They are a reliable option for businesses looking to reduce plastic use and enhance their brand image.
