About PLA for Disposable Use

Polylactic acid, or polylactide, more commonly known as PLA, is a biodegradable polymer derived from 100% renewable resources. PLA, conq arable to petroleum based plastic, is now used in a variety of industries including packaging, clothing, medicine and more. Classified as GRAS (generally recognized as safe) by FDA, PLA is a nonvolatile and odorless polymer [56 - 59]. 

PLA products require certain amounts of heat, moisture and air to compost. Regrettably typical landfills do not contain these necessary circumstances and the items dumped in the trash usually end up at these landfills. Also, landfills are typically sealed, which means that decomposition happens beneath the surface and what is thrown in the trash can is preserved for decades after. 

You can dispose your PLA products at the closest composting facility. If you are in California, you can locate the closest facility. If you are located outside of California, you can find a facility near you. 

PLA must be kept out of direct simlight and in a cool, dry location. Keep die PLA products in the temperature below 110 °F and the humidi lower than 90% at all times. Although not required, refrigerated truck is highly recommended in transporting PLA products. 

You can use PLA products for hot beverages if the beverage temperature does not exceed HOT. PLA products perform better when used with cold beverages although the typical heat tolerance of PLA products is 110 T. And you can also do custom printed PLA cups. 

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