🌱 Why Most “PLA” Packaging Isn’t 100% PLA
If you see “PLA” on a compostable bag — chances are, it’s not pure PLA.
Most of them are PLA + PBAT blends.
Here’s why 👇
🧩 PBAT = Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)
It’s a petroleum-based but fully biodegradable polyester.
Think of PBAT as the flexible teammate that makes PLA more usable in real-world packaging.
⚙️ Why blend PLA with PBAT?
PLA is strong but brittle — hard to process and easy to crack.
PBAT is soft, elastic, and great for film extrusion.
👉 Together, they balance strength + flexibility + compostability.
💡 Typical ratios:
Film bags: 30–50% PLA / 50–70% PBAT
Rigid cups, lids: 70–90% PLA / 10–30% PBAT
Straws: 80–100% PLA
So when you touch a “PLA bag,” it’s often this combo doing the magic. ✨
♻️ Still eco-friendly:
Even though PBAT is oil-derived, it’s certified compostable (EN13432 / ASTM D6400).
Both PLA and PBAT degrade into CO₂, water, and biomass — nothing harmful left behind.
Why Most “PLA” Packaging Isn’t 100% PLA