Cold Cups and Lids

No, neither PET nor PLA cups are suitable for use in a microwave oven. They may melt or become damaged if exposed to high heat.

Clear cold cups are a popular choice for serving drinks at events and gatherings. They are made from either PET or PLA, two materials with different properties and benefits.

PET, or polyethylene terephthalate, is a plastic material that is strong and durable. It is also resistant to moisture and chemicals, making it a good choice for use with beverages. PET cups are clear and transparent, allowing customers to see the contents of their cup.

PLA, or polylactic acid, is a biodegradable and compostable material derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. It is a more sustainable alternative to traditional plastics, offering environmental benefits such as reducing the amount of waste in landfills. However, it is not as strong as PET and may not be suitable for use with certain types of beverages. PLA cups are also clear, but they may have a slightly cloudy appearance due to the nature of the material.

Overall, clear cold cups made from PET and PLA offer different benefits and properties. PET cups are strong and durable, making them suitable for use with a wide range of beverages. PLA cups, on the other hand, are biodegradable and compostable, offering environmental benefits. Both materials are safe for food and beverages, but PLA cups should not be used for hot drinks. Customers can choose the right type of cup based on their specific needs and preferences.

Yes, PET cups can be recycled, but PLA cups are not recyclable in most municipal recycling programs.

Yes, PLA cups can be composted in a commercial composting facility, but PET cups should be recycled.

Check to see each cold cup product page for its compostable or recyclable designation. You can find this info under the "At a Glance" section, or the "Key Features" section of the product pages. We supply a variety of cold cups depending on the need and application. For example, recycled PET cups are needed to withstand high desert temperatures above 110 degrees F. These PET cups are both 100% post-consumer recycled material and 100% recyclable

Cold cups are made from a few different materials, most commonly PLA and PET. There is a definite distinction between the two, both have unique benefits. PLA is 100% compostable in commercial facilities, but only to be used for cold liquids. PET (#1) is 100% recyclable and the most recycled plastic on Earth. PET has a higher heat resistance than PLA, but should still be used for cold or warm drinks, not hot coffee or tea. Please make sure you check the “Key Features” tab to make sure you are purchasing the right cold cup and lids for your use-case.

Yes, both PET and PLA cups are food safe and can be used for cold beverages. However, hot beverages may cause the PLA cups to become soft and lose their shape.

Cups do not come with lids, but you can purchase them separately. The matching lids can be found in the Related Products section at the bottom of the product page.

No, you should not put PLA or PET in the microwave.