PLA Film Properties: A Sustainable Choice for Modern Packaging

As environmental concerns rise and regulations around plastic use tighten worldwide, the demand for sustainable packaging materials has never been greater. PLA film (Polylactic Acid film), derived from renewable plant sources such as corn or sugarcane, is emerging as a leading solution for businesses seeking both functionality and eco-responsibility. With increasing consumer awareness and government bans on single-use plastics, companies are shifting toward biodegradable alternatives. At YITO, we specialize in developing innovative PLA film solutions that meet professional B2B needs across packaging, agriculture, and logistics.

From Plants to Packaging: The Science Behind PLA Film

Polylactic Acid (PLA) film is a biodegradable and bio-based plastic film derived primarily from renewable plant resources such as corn starch, sugarcane, or cassava. The key component, polylactic acid, is produced through the fermentation of plant sugars into lactic acid, which is then polymerized into a thermoplastic polyester. This material offers a unique combination of sustainability and performance.

PLA film is known for its high transparency, excellent gloss, and good rigidity, making it suitable for both aesthetic and structural packaging applications. In addition to being industrially compostable, PLA exhibits good printability, moderate gas barrier properties, and compatibility with common converting processes like extrusion, coating, and lamination.These characteristics make this kind of biodegradable film an ideal eco-friendly alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics in sectors such as food packaging, agriculture, labeling, and logistics.

yito's pla film

What Are PLA Film Properties?

PLA film offers a powerful combination of environmental benefits and technical performance. Its properties make it highly suitable for a variety of commercial and industrial applications.

Compostable and Biodegradable

Made from renewable resources, PLA film decomposes into water and CO₂ under industrial composting conditions within 180 days, complying with EN13432 and ASTM D6400 standards.

High Transparency and Gloss

PLA film's excellent clarity and surface gloss provide superior shelf appeal, ideal for applications in PLA film for food packaging.

Strong Mechanical Properties

PLA exhibits high rigidity and stiffness, making it compatible with automated packaging lines and advanced processing equipment.

Adjustable Barrier Performance

The base PLA structure offers decent gas and moisture barrier properties. Enhanced versions, like high barrier PLA film, can be developed through co-extrusion or coating for extended shelf life products.

Shrink and Stretch Capabilities

PLA is well-suited for specialized uses such as PLA shrink film and PLA stretch film, providing secure, adaptable wrapping for both retail and industrial packaging.

Printability and Adhesion

No pre-treatment is required for high-quality printing, and it is compatible with eco-friendly adhesives and inks—perfect for custom branding and labeling.

Food Contact Safety

Certified safe for direct food contact under FDA and EU regulations, PLA film for food packaging is ideal for fresh produce, meat, bakery, and more.

Types of PLA Films and Their Applications

PLA Cling Film

  • PLA cling film is ideal for wrapping fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and deli items.

  • Breathable structure regulates moisture and respiration, helping to extend shelf life.

  • Food-safe, transparent, and self-adhesive – a sustainable replacement for conventional plastic wraps.

Barrier film YITO

High Barrier PLA Film

  • The high barrier PLA film is designed for dental, dry foods, snacks, coffee, pharmaceuticals, and vacuum-sealed goods.

  • Enhanced oxygen and moisture barrier through coating or metallization.

  • A premium solution for companies demanding advanced protection with sustainability.

pla shrink bottle sleeve

PLA Shrink Film

  • PLA shrink film has excellent shrink ratio and uniformity for bottle labels, gift wrapping, and product bundling.

  • Superior printability for high-impact branding.

  • PLA shrink film offers a safer and more eco-conscious alternative to PVC shrink sleeves.

stretch film

 PLA Stretch Film

  • High tensile strength and elasticity make PLA stretch film ideal for pallet wrapping and industrial logistics.

  • Industrially compostable, reducing environmental waste in distribution channels.

  • Supports green supply chain initiatives across multiple sectors.

strawberry mulch films biodegradabble

PLA Mulch Film

  • PLA mulch film is fully biodegradable and suitable for agricultural applications.

  • Eliminates the need for removal or recovery after harvest.

  • Improves moisture retention, soil temperature control, and crop yield—while eliminating plastic pollution in fields.

machine for pla film for food packaging

Why Choose Yito’s PLA Film Solutions?

  • ✅Regulatory Compliance: Fully compliant with European and North American environmental policies.

  • Brand Enhancement: Reinforce your commitment to sustainability with visible eco-packaging.

  • Consumer Confidence: Appeal to eco-conscious buyers with certified compostable materials.

  • Custom Engineering: We offer tailored formulations for specific use cases like PLA cling film, high barrier PLA film, and PLA shrink/stretch film.

  • Reliable Supply Chain: Scalable production with consistent quality and flexible lead times.

As industries move toward circular economy principles, PLA film stands at the forefront of innovation—merging performance with environmental impact. Whether you're in food packaging, agriculture, or industrial logistics, Yito's comprehensive range of PLA film products empowers you to lead the change toward a greener future.

Contact YITO today to discuss how our PLA film for food packaging, PLA stretch film, PLA shrink film, and high barrier PLA film solutions can enhance your packaging portfolio—while aligning with your sustainability goals.

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Post time: May-27-2025