Is RPET safe for food packaging?
In a sector where food safety and eco-conscious image are top priorities, more and more professionals in the restaurant, hotel, and take-away industries are turning to RPET. This recycled plastic, made from PET, is a durable, attractive, and more environmentally friendly solution than virgin plastic. But is it really safe for food contact? And which types of food is it suitable for? Here's what professionals need to know to make an informed and safe choice.
RPET and food contact: strictly regulated compliance
The use of RPET in food packaging is subject to strict regulations. It’s not enough to simply use recycled plastic — the material must be recycled under conditions that ensure food-safe use.
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In Europe, Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011 outlines the criteria for plastics intended for food contact. For RPET, this includes a recycling process approved by EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), with full traceability and quality controls.
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In the United States, the FDA requires that any recycled plastic intended for food contact must come from an approved process that guarantees effective decontamination and complete safety for the end user.
Professionals must ensure that the RPET products they purchase are compliant with these regulations. Non-certified RPET is not allowed for food use.
Temperature resistance: stable for cold and warm applications
RPET is perfectly stable at low and moderate temperatures. It retains its shape, stiffness, and transparency when used to package cold or room-temperature foods. However, it is not suitable for high heat.
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Maximum recommended temperature: around 60 °C / 140 °F
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Above this, the material may soften or lose rigidity
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Not suitable for cooking, ovens, or microwaves
That makes it ideal for chilled drinks, refrigerated food, ready-to-eat meals, or cold desserts.
Which foods is RPET ideal for?
Here are the main uses of RPET in food service and takeaway businesses:
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Cold beverages: iced teas, fresh juices, smoothies, flavored waters, craft sodas…
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Cold starters: tabbouleh, mixed salads, marinated vegetables, antipasti
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Cold ready meals: poke bowls, wraps, sandwiches, cold catering dishes
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Desserts: mousses, fruit compotes, tiramisu, puddings, parfaits, layered desserts
RPET is particularly well-suited for catering services, cafés, hotel breakfasts (buffet or in-room), takeaways, juice bars, service stations, or cafeterias.
Traceability is essential
When buying RPET products for food use, make sure that:
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They are specifically designed for food contact
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The manufacturer is clearly identified and able to provide EU or FDA compliance certificates
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The packaging or product sheet specifies usage limitations (temperature range, single-use status, recyclability, etc.)
At Covr, this transparency is guaranteed for our entire RPET product line.
What Covr offers professionals
Covr provides a range of RPET products designed to combine style, functionality, and food-grade safety:
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Transparent RPET bottles, perfect for takeaway drinks
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Matching lids, with or without straw holes
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Dessert pots, ideal for cold desserts and starters
All our products are tested and produced in factories certified to meet current EU standards.
Summary
RPET is a modern and reliable solution for professionals looking to offer safe, recycled, and visually appealing food packaging. It's ideal for cold dishes and takeaway drinks and helps reduce plastic waste while staying compliant with regulations.
Need advice on formats or usage? The Covr team is here to help guide and support you in choosing the right packaging.