Single Wall Paper Cup Suppliers

Industry knowledge

The Crucial Role of PLA Coating in “Biodegradable” Paper Cups

When a paper cup is labeled “biodegradable,” it usually refers to the lining used to make the paper waterproof. While the paper itself is compostable, a conventional cup uses a polyethylene (PE) plastic lining, which prevents the cup from breaking down fully in commercial composting facilities and is problematic for recycling.

For true biodegradability, the lining must be made from a bioplastic like Polylactic Acid (PLA). PLA is derived from renewable sources, such as corn starch or sugarcane, and breaks down under specific conditions—typically in a commercial composting environment that reaches high temperatures and maintains the necessary moisture levels. It’s important to note that a PLA-lined cup will not easily biodegrade in a typical home compost pile or a landfill, which is often an anaerobic (oxygen-free) environment. This is why communication is key: for a paper cup to complete its lifecycle responsibly, it must be diverted to the correct commercial composting stream. Here at Jiangsu Marrot, we ensure our high-quality cups are lined with certified PLA, meeting the expectations of our eco-conscious, mid-to-high-end chain restaurant partners.

Designing for Single-Layer Strength and Leak Prevention

The choice of paper stock and the precision of the manufacturing process are paramount for a single-layer paper cup, especially one intended for high-volume use in chain restaurants. A single-layer cup must provide sufficient thermal insulation and structural integrity without the benefit of a second layer.

• Grammage and Rigidity: We utilize specific paperboard grammages (the weight of the paper per square meter, usually measured in GSM) that balance material efficiency with cup stability. A higher GSM paper offers better hand-feel and less chance of the cup collapsing when hot liquid is added.
• The Lip and Base Seal: The weakest points are the side seam, the rolled lip, and the bottom seal. High-speed, high-precision machinery is essential to create an airtight and leak-proof structure. The sealing process must be optimized for the PLA coating, as PLA has different heat-sealing characteristics than PE. Our investment in over 80 pieces of advanced equipment, including high-speed paper cup machines, guarantees that every cup meets stringent performance standards.
• Material Certification: Beyond the paper and PLA, the adhesive used on the side seam must also be food-safe and compatible with the biodegradation process. We’re proud that our production workshop is BRC-certified, which is the benchmark for food packaging safety and quality, giving your brand peace of mind.

Flexographic Printing vs. Offset Printing for Custom Biodegradable Cups

Customization is crucial for our chain restaurant clients, as the cup is a key branding touchpoint. The printing method directly impacts the visual quality, the speed of production, and the environmental profile.

We primarily utilize high-speed flexographic printers in our 20,000-square-meter facility. This choice allows us to use food-grade, low-migration, and often water-based inks, which align perfectly with the environmental goals of a biodegradable product. This ensures the custom logos and branding for our clients—from bustling coffee shops to major cinema chains—are vibrant, precise, and safely applied, all while maintaining the speed and efficiency required for large-scale production.

The Mid-to-High-End Customization Difference: From Design to Die-Cutting

Our focus on the mid-to-high-end customization segment goes beyond just printing a logo; it involves a tailored approach to mold development and finishing.

• Bespoke Mold Development: While standard sizes exist, some chain restaurants require unique cup volumes or shapes for specific beverages. Our in-house mold development and design team allows us to quickly prototype and produce the specialized high-speed die-cutting and punching tools necessary to create a distinct cup blank that is unique to the client’s brand.
• Precision Die-Cutting: The quality of the Disposable Biodegradable Single-Layer Paper Cups blank is critical. Imperfect edges can lead to poor sealing and leaks during the final formation process. Utilizing high-speed die-cutting and punching machines, we ensure every single blank is cut with microscopic precision. This focus on the foundational geometry is what distinguishes a professional-grade cup.
• Automated Packaging: The final step involves fully automated packaging machines. This step is essential not only for speed but also for maintaining the cleanliness standards of our BRC-certified, high-cleanliness production workshop. Automated packaging reduces human contact, protecting the integrity of the food-contact surface right up until the cup is opened by the restaurant staff. With nearly a decade of dedicated efforts, this relentless commitment to quality has earned us the favor of numerous top brands in Chinese cuisine, tea shops, and more.