PP vs PET Lids: Choosing the Right Fit for Your Brand
When it comes to beverage packaging, material choice matters. At LidWorks, we specialize in custom lids that align with your brand’s mission and performance needs. Two of the most popular options in food & beverage packaging are Polypropylene (PP) and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET).
Both are widely used but each offers unique strengths depending on your goals.
Polypropylene (PP): Lightweight & Versatile
Polypropylene is a durable, lightweight plastic ideal for hot and cold applications. It’s a favorite among coffee shops and QSRs for its balance of performance and cost-effectiveness.
Benefits of PP Lids:
Heat-resistant and perfect for hot beverages
Lightweight yet strong
Recyclable
Affordable, with a wide range of branding opportunities
For brands looking for versatility and practicality, PP remains a go-to option.
PET: Premium Clarity & Performance
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is best known for its crystal-clear appearance and excellent cold-beverage performance. It’s the same material used in most plastic bottles, making it highly recognizable and consumer-friendly.
Benefits of PET Lids:
Exceptional clarity for product visibility
Strong, rigid structure—ideal for iced drinks and cold brews
Recyclable
Enhances premium brand positioning with a “glass-like” look
PET lids make beverages look as good as they taste, while also aligning with widely accepted recycling streams.
Branding Opportunities with PP & PET
Both PP and PET lids can be custom-branded with:
Logos & embossing
Unique colors and finishes
Custom-fit designs
Your lid shouldn’t just cover, it should communicate your brand’s identity with every sip.
Industry Insight: The Push for Recyclables
As regulators increase pressure on single-use plastics, brands are rethinking material strategies. While compostable PLA is gaining traction, recyclable PP and PET continue to dominate the beverage lid market due to their availability, durability, and consumer familiarity.
Recycling Streams: PET (#1) and PP (#5) are widely accepted, making them strong candidates for brands aiming to reduce landfill impact.
Consumer Preference: Research shows customers recognize PET as a “premium” option, while PP is associated with practicality and value.
Brand Alignment: Many chains are adopting a hybrid approach, using PET lids for iced drinks and PP for hot beverages.
The LidWorks Advantage
No matter which path you choose PP, PET, or PLA LidWorks ensures your lids do more than serve a function. They serve your brand story.
👉 Request a Sample Kit Today to compare PP vs PET lids and find the perfect fit for your business.