If you’ve come across the term “PLA emballage” while researching packaging in Europe, the meaning is straightforward.
“Emballage” means packaging in French, so PLA emballage simply refers to PLA packaging.
PLA stands for polylactic acid, a plant-derived polymer used in various packaging applications.
What Is PLA Emballage?
PLA emballage refers to packaging products made using PLA.
Depending on the application, this can include:
- Bottles
- Food containers
- Cups
- Films
- Trays
The exact properties and specifications depend on the finished product and how it is manufactured.
For this reason, businesses shouldn’t evaluate packaging based only on the word PLA. The intended application and product specification are equally important.
Where Is PLA Packaging Used?
PLA packaging is used across several applications where businesses are looking for alternatives to conventional packaging materials.
For bottled water, PLA can be used to produce bottles designed specifically for beverage packaging.
However, PLA packaging for one application shouldn’t automatically be assumed to be suitable for another.
A water bottle, food container and packaging film can all use PLA while having very different requirements.
Is PLA Emballage Compostable?
Not automatically.
PLA is the material, while compostability describes the behaviour of a finished product under specific conditions.
If a supplier makes a compostability claim, businesses should check:
- What product is covered
- What composting conditions are required
- What documentation supports the claim
- Whether the claim applies to the finished packaging
This distinction is particularly important when communicating sustainability claims to customers.
What Should Businesses Check Before Buying PLA Packaging?
Before sourcing PLA emballage, consider four basic questions:
1. What is the packaging designed for?
Make sure the product is suitable for your application.
2. What is it actually made from?
Ask for clear material specifications.
3. What is the intended end of life?
Understand whether the product is intended for composting, recycling or another disposal pathway.
4. What documentation is available?
Verify relevant material, food-contact or environmental claims where applicable.
PLA Emballage for Bottled Water
For businesses specifically looking for PLA water bottles, the material needs to be evaluated as part of the complete bottle rather than simply as generic PLA packaging.
Not A PET Bottle uses NPB-PLA™, its plant-based bottle material designed specifically for bottled-water packaging.
You can learn more about the material and its specifications on the NPB-PLA™ Bottle Material page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does PLA emballage mean?
PLA emballage means PLA packaging. “Emballage” is the French word for packaging.
Is PLA emballage the same as all PLA products?
No. PLA is used in different applications, and each finished product can have different specifications.
Is PLA emballage compostable?
Not necessarily. Compostability depends on the specific finished product and the conditions required for its end of life.
Can PLA be used for water bottles?
Yes. PLA-based materials can be used for bottled-water packaging when the specific material and finished product are designed for that application.
What should I check when buying PLA packaging?
Check the material specification, intended application, end-of-life pathway and supporting documentation.
