CPLA (Crystallized Poly Lactic Acid) and PLA (Polylactic Acid) are both types of biodegradable cutlery that are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional plastic cutlery.
CPLA is a type of PLA that has been treated with crystallization to make it heat resistant and stronger than regular PLA. This makes it suitable for use in hot food and beverages, and it can withstand temperatures up to 85°C. CPLA cutlery is made from renewable resources such as corn starch, sugarcane, and potato starch, and it breaks down completely within 90 days in a commercial composting facility.
PLA cutlery, on the other hand, is made from cornstarch or sugarcane, and it is compostable in a commercial composting facility. However, it is not heat-resistant and is only suitable for cold food and beverages.
Both CPLA and PLA cutlery are environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional plastic cutlery, which can take hundreds of years to break down and can harm wildlife and ecosystems. They are also a great option for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact and show their commitment to sustainability.
Features of Biodegradable CPLA Cutlery:
1.Heat resistant: CPLA cutlery can withstand temperatures up to 185°F (85°C), which makes it suitable for use with hot food and beverages.
2.Durable: CPLA cutlery is more durable than traditional plastic cutlery, so it is less likely to break or bend during use.
3.Compostable: CPLA cutlery is compostable, which means that it can be broken down by natural processes and turned into compost.
4.Environmentally friendly: CPLA cutlery is made from renewable resources, so it is more environmentally friendly than traditional plastic cutlery.
Features of Biodegradable PLA Cutlery:
1.Heat sensitive: PLA cutlery is heat sensitive and cannot withstand high temperatures, so it is not suitable for use with hot food and beverages.
2.Compostable: PLA cutlery is compostable, which means that it can be broken down by natural processes and turned into compost.
3.Biodegradable: PLA cutlery is biodegradable, which means that it will break down over time in the environment.
4.Environmentally friendly: PLA cutlery is made from renewable resources, so it is more environmentally friendly than traditional plastic cutlery.
Overall, both CPLA and PLA cutlery are great alternatives to traditional plastic cutlery because they are biodegradable and more environmentally friendly. However, CPLA cutlery may be more suitable for use with hot food and beverages, while PLA cutlery is more sensitive to heat.
Here are some tips for selecting
biodegradable CPLA and PLA cutlery:
1.Look for certifications: When selecting biodegradable cutlery, it's important to look for certifications that indicate the product meets certain standards. Some of the certifications you should look for include ASTM D6400, BPI, and EN 13432. These certifications ensure that the product is compostable and will break down properly in industrial composting facilities.
2.Consider the temperature: CPLA cutlery is made from a combination of PLA and chalk, which makes it more heat-resistant than regular PLA cutlery. If you plan on using the cutlery for hot food items, consider choosing CPLA cutlery to ensure it doesn't melt or deform.
3.Look for durability: Some biodegradable cutlery can be flimsy and break easily, which can be frustrating for customers. Look for cutlery that is sturdy and durable enough to withstand normal use.
4.Check for compatibility: If you plan on using biodegradable cutlery with certain food items or in specific settings (such as microwaves), it's important to ensure that the product is compatible. Check with the manufacturer or supplier to confirm the cutlery is safe to use with your specific needs.
5.Consider the environmental impact: While biodegradable cutlery is better for the environment than traditional plastic cutlery, it's important to consider the entire lifecycle of the product. Look for cutlery made from renewable resources, such as corn or sugarcane, and consider the energy and resources required to produce, transport, and dispose of the cutlery.