What you need to know about RPET for food packaging
In a context where professionals in food service, hospitality, and takeaway are seeking solutions that are both practical and eco-friendly, RPET is gaining attention. But what exactly is it? Why has this material become a strategic choice for food packaging? Here's a technical but accessible overview of this recycled material.
What is PET? Where does it come from?
PET stands for "polyethylene terephthalate". It’s a type of plastic widely used to make clear bottles, lids for bowls, or dessert cups. It is made from the combination of two chemical components:
- Terephthalic acid, a solid molecule derived from petrochemicals, which gives the plastic its structure,
- Ethylene glycol, a hydrocarbon-based liquid that provides flexibility.
Once combined, these two elements form a solid and stable chain — called a polymer — that can be heated, molded, and cooled to create rigid and transparent packaging.
From PET to RPET: a recycling process
RPET ("Recycled PET") is simply PET that has already been used (for example, as a bottle), then collected, cleaned, and transformed into a new product. It’s shredded into small flakes or pellets, which are then used to produce new cups or trays.
This recycling process gives a second life to existing plastic, while reducing the need for new raw materials (from petroleum).
Mechanical vs. chemical recycling
There are two main ways to recycle PET:
- Mechanical recycling: The plastic is cleaned, shredded, and melted down to make new products. This is the simplest and most common method.
- Chemical recycling: The plastic is broken down to its original molecular components (acid + alcohol) to be re-synthesized like new. This yields higher quality, but is more complex and costly.
Chemical properties of RPET
RPET retains most of the useful properties of virgin PET plastic:
- Barrier to oxygen and moisture: It prevents air or humidity from entering the packaging, helping preserve food for longer.
- Hydrophobic: It repels water and won’t degrade in humid environments.
- Transparent: Just like classic plastic, it allows visibility of the contents, though RPET may have a very slight grey tint.
- Rigid and lightweight: It doesn’t bend easily, but remains easy to handle for logistics and takeaway use.
However, it does not tolerate high temperatures well: it should not be microwaved or used for very hot dishes.
Can RPET be recycled again?
Yes, RPET can be recycled again as long as it’s properly sorted and clean. However, with each cycle, the polymer chains may shorten, affecting its performance. That’s why a bit of virgin PET is sometimes added to strengthen new products.
It’s important to dispose of RPET in the correct recycling bins and avoid contamination with greasy or liquid food waste that could hinder recycling.
What about food contact?
RPET can be used for food packaging if it meets certain strict standards. Many RPET materials on the market comply with European (EU) regulations and U.S. FDA requirements.
RPET products at Covr
At Covr, we offer several RPET products designed for foodservice and takeaway professionals:
- Clear RPET bottles for cold drinks (juices, smoothies, iced tea...)
- Compatible lids for bowls for safe and hygienic service
- Dessert cups for cold desserts
These products maintain a professional appearance while reducing environmental impact thanks to recycled plastic.
RPET vs. virgin PET: same look, reduced impact
Visually, RPET is nearly indistinguishable from classic PET. The difference lies mainly in environmental impact:
- It doesn’t use new petroleum resources
- It requires less energy to produce
- It emits less CO₂
- It gives a second life to existing waste
It’s a real asset for businesses looking to reduce their footprint while keeping packaging quality high.
Conclusion
RPET is more than just recycled plastic. It’s a smart solution that combines quality, visual appeal, and eco-responsibility. Suitable for cold food uses and compliant with professional standards, it’s part of a circular economy that Covr supports daily with its product range.
Want to learn more or try our RPET products? Feel free to contact us or browse our online catalog.