Recycled PET for Food Contact: Safety and Standards
Finding safe, sustainable materials for food packaging isn't easy. You need something that meets strict regulations, ensures consumer safety, and aligns with sustainability goals.
Naturally, you might ask: Is recycled PET safe for food? Is it BPA-free? What is it used for? Let’s clear up the confusion and break down everything you need to know about rPET and food safety.
Is Recycled PET Safe for Food Contact?
Yes, recycled PET is safe for food contact—as long as it meets strict safety standards. Regulatory bodies like the FDA and European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) require rPET to go through approved recycling processes that remove contaminants and ensure it’s food-safe.
Is Recycled PET BPA-Free?
Absolutely! Recycled PET is 100% BPA-free. Unlike some plastics, PET (including its recycled form) never contained BPA, making it a great choice for food and drink packaging.
Also Read : Recycled PET vs. Virgin PET - A Comprehensive Comparison
How Is Food-Grade rPET Regulated?
Food-safe rPET must meet strict international regulations to ensure it doesn’t release harmful substances into food.
European Union (EU) Regulations
- Framework Regulation (EC) 1935/2004 ensures food contact materials don’t release harmful chemicals.
- Plastics Regulation (EU) 10/2011 sets migration limits for substances in plastic materials.
- Regulation (EU) 2022/1616 approves specific recycling processes for food-grade PET.
- EFSA Approval is required to prove the recycling method removes contaminants effectively.
United States (US) Regulations
- The FDA assesses rPET safety case by case.
- Manufacturers must obtain a No Objection Letter (NOL) from the FDA, confirming their recycling process is safe for food contact.
- Safety assessments include contamination risks and migration limits.
Also Read : Things You Need to Know Before Buying Recycled PET
What Is Recycled PET Used For?
Recycled PET is everywhere! Common food-related uses include:
- Water and soda bottles
- Food containers (clamshells, trays, jars)
- Dairy product packaging (milk, yogurt cups)
- Flexible food packaging films
It’s also used in textiles, carpets, and even car parts, but its biggest impact is in sustainable food packaging.
How Is Food-Grade rPET Made?
To be food-safe, rPET goes through high-tech recycling processes:
1. Mechanical Recycling (Most Common for Food-Grade rPET)
- Used PET bottles are collected, sorted, and washed.
- They’re shredded into flakes and deep-cleaned to remove contaminants.
- The purified rPET is tested to ensure it meets food safety standards.
2. Chemical Recycling (An Emerging Technology)
- PET is broken down into its base molecules.
- These molecules are purified and turned into brand-new PET.
- While promising, chemical recycling is still being evaluated for food safety.
Also Read : A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right FIBC for Your Business
The Future of rPET in Food Packaging
The demand for rPET is booming, thanks to sustainability goals and new regulations. For example:
- The EU’s Single-Use Plastics Directive requires beverage bottles to contain at least 25% rPET by 2025 and 30% by 2030.
- Many global brands are committing to using more rPET in their packaging to cut down on plastic waste.
Langgeng Jaya Group: Your Trusted rPET Supplier
At Langgeng Jaya Group, we produce high-quality, food-grade rPET that meets international safety standards. Our rPET clear flakes are rigorously tested to ensure they’re safe for food packaging.
Why Choose Langgeng Jaya Group’s rPET?
- Certified Safe: Meets FDA and EU regulations.
- Custom Solutions: Tailored rPET specs for different needs.
- Sustainable: Supports a circular economy with eco-friendly practices.
Final Thoughts
Recycled PET is a safe, sustainable, and BPA-free choice for food packaging when processed correctly. With growing demand for eco-friendly materials, rPET is playing a crucial role in reducing plastic waste while keeping food safety a top priority.
Looking for a trusted rPET supplier? Contact Langgeng Jaya Group today!
