Article Quick Facts
What "Food-Grade" Actually Means
Food-grade means the material is manufactured from food-contact-approved resin and is intended for direct contact with beverages. Both PET and PP used for beverage cups are standard food-contact plastics. The key for buyers is to confirm the resin grade and to match the material to the drink temperature, since using a cup outside its temperature range is the most common safety mistake.
PET vs PP: Food-Safety Profile
A material-level comparison to inform your food-safety and sourcing decisions.
| Property | PET | PP |
|---|---|---|
| Recycling code | 1 (PETE) | 5 (PP) |
| Food contact | Food-grade resin | Food-grade resin |
| Temperature use | Cold only (~60°C max) | Hot & cold (~100°C max) |
| Typical drinks | Iced coffee, juice, boba | Hot tea, hot coffee, hot & cold |
| Clarity | Crystal clear | Clear to frosted |
Temperature Is a Safety Boundary
The single most important safety rule is temperature. PET is engineered for cold and ambient drinks up to about 60°C and will deform if filled with hot liquid — so it should never be used for hot beverages. PP tolerates up to about 100°C, making it the correct choice for hot tea and coffee. Insulated paper cups are the other hot-drink option.
What to Confirm With Any Supplier
Before ordering, confirm the resin is food-grade, ask which market certifications apply to your destination, and match each cup to its intended drink temperature. A responsible supplier will state the material grade and temperature range for every cup line rather than making blanket claims.
Article FAQs
Yes, when produced from food-grade resin and used within their temperature range. PET is for cold drinks up to ~60°C; PP handles hot and cold up to ~100°C.
PET cups are code 1 (the most widely recycled plastic) and PP cups are code 5. Both are food-contact plastics; recyclability depends on local facilities.
PET softens above about 60°C and will deform. For hot drinks use PP cups or insulated paper cups, both of which tolerate higher temperatures.