PLA

Polylactic acid or polylactide (PLA) is a biodegradable, thermoplastic, aliphatic polyester derived from renewable resources, such as corn starch (in the U.S.) or sugarcanes (rest of world). Although PLA has been known for more than a century, it has only been of commercial interest in recent years, in light of its biodegradability.

PLA is currently used in a number of biomedical applications, such as sutures, stents, dialysis media and drug delivery devices. Because it is biodegradable, it can also be employed in the preparation of bioplastic, useful for producing loose-fill packaging, compost bags, food packaging, and disposable tableware.

PLA is more expensive than many petroleum-derived commodity plastics, but its price has been falling as production increases. The demand for corn is growing, both due to the use of corn for bioethanol and for corn-dependent commodities, including PLA.

PLA is a sustainable alternative to petrochemical-derived products, since the lactides from which it is ultimately produced can be derived from the fermentation of agricultural by-products such as corn starch or other carbohydrate rich substances like maize, sugar or wheat.

PLA is a clear material and is bio-compostable.  It is widely used in the produce industry and is a good fit for the "green" minded consumer.  The PLA has qualities similar to PET and OPS; although there are some temperature and humidity concerns with transportation of PLA packaging, this resin has been found to be a viable alternative in the produce market.