Paper Cup Coating Guide
Compare PLA, aqueous, PE, and PFAS-free coatings — plus PET & PP cold cups — to choose the right material for your market and sustainability goals.
ECO / PLA Coated
CompostableCorn starch-based PLA bioplastic. Industrially compostable in 12 weeks. Plant-based, zero microplastics.
- Compostable (EN 13432)
- Plant-based material
- EU & US compliant
- Hot & cold drinks
Aqueous Coated
Plastic-Free100% water-based barrier. No plastic film. Recyclable within standard paper waste streams.
- No plastic film
- Paper-recyclable
- Water-based barrier
- Hot & cold drinks
PE Coated
StandardTraditional polyethylene inner lining. Most cost-effective and widely accepted worldwide.
- Cost-effective
- Globally accepted
- Hot & cold beverages
- All sizes available
PFAS-Free
Chemical-FreePFAS-free applies across ALL CupsPak coatings — PLA, aqueous, and PE. Not a separate coating.
- Zero PFAS chemicals
- FDA & LFGB compliant
- All coatings covered
- Import compliance docs available
PET & PP Cold Cups
Clear Cold DrinkCrystal-clear PET and heat-sealable PP cold cups for iced drinks and bubble tea. Food-grade, BPA-free.
- Crystal-clear PET
- Heat-sealable PP
- Food-grade & BPA-free
- 7oz–32oz
PLA vs Aqueous vs PE
Use this table to match the right coating to your market requirements, sustainability targets, and budget.
| Feature | 🌿 PLA | 💧 Aqueous | ⚡ PE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic film | Bio-based (PLA) | None | Polyethylene |
| Recyclable in paper stream | ✗ | ✓ Yes | ✗ |
| Industrially compostable | ✓ Yes (EN 13432) | ✗ | ✗ |
| Hot & cold beverages | Hot & cold | Hot & cold | Hot & cold |
| Relative cost | Higher | Medium–high | Lowest |
| PFAS-free | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Best for | EU & composting programs | Plastic-reduction / recyclability markets | High-volume, cost-sensitive |
All CupsPak coatings are PFAS-free. Need clear cold cups? See PET & PP cold cups.
Not Sure Which Coating Is Right?
Tell us your market, volume, and sustainability targets — we'll recommend the best option and prepare a quote.