PET plastic as a food packaging material – properties and recycling

PET plastic (polyethylene terephthalate) is one of the world's most widely used food packaging materials. The lightweight, impact-resistant material is known by its recycling code #1. PET plastic is widely used in, for example, beverage bottles, food boxes and other food packaging. PET plastic is excellent for packaging cold foods and drinks; the material's operating temperature range is -20 °C / +60 °C.

Why do companies choose PET plastic?

PET plastic is a very safe material choice for food use. The material does not release odours or flavours into the product and it protects the contents excellently. Its lightness reduces transportation costs and PET plastic is also suitable for closed-loop recycling. Recycled PET (rPET) can be used to make new food packaging, but the quality of the material declines with each recycling cycle. Using recycled material reduces the need for virgin plastic.

Packaging options made of PET plastic

PET plastic cups are perfect for smoothies and cold drinks. Plastic cups and glasses can be branded. Request a quote for your own logo on plastic cups and glasses.

PET hinged lid containers and PET plastic containers are perfect for cold foods, salads, berries and desserts, such as quark.

This is how PET circulates

Deposit PET bottles are returned to reverse vending machines in stores, and other PET packaging is sorted for plastic collection or at Rinki eco-points. Before recycling, it is a good idea to rinse or wipe the packaging lightly, remove larger food residues and ensure that it ends up in the correct collection. This way we keep the material in circulation for as long as possible. Up to 90% of plastic bottles are returned in Finland, which is one of the highest rates in the world. The collected bottles and packaging are used to make new food packaging, textiles and other goods.

Common benefit

When companies choose recyclable materials and consumers sort correctly, PET can be recycled into new products.