Container and lid fit
Check fit, opening and closing, leakage under intended use and post-filling handling. Define test liquid, orientation, duration and acceptance criteria.
§01 · Procurement & QA guide
A procurement guide to rPET cups and bowls.
Start with material composition, operational needs and the evidence required for approval. Use this guide to prepare an RFQ and compare quotations against the same specification.
Download the rPET RFQ template (CSV)Complete it in Excel or Google Sheets and include it with your quotation request.
§02 · Material terminology
PET, rPET and recycled content.
rPET is PET sourced from recycled PET material. In procurement, recycled-content percentage should be stated in the product specification, including which components are counted. Packaging appearance alone does not provide that information.
Recycled content describes material input. Whether packaging is recycled after use also depends on local collection, sorting and facilities. Address both separately in the brand brief. Definitions: FTC.
§03 · RFQ specification
Inputs for comparing rPET quotations.
| Parameter | Information to request | How it informs the decision |
|---|---|---|
| Material content | Recycled-content percentage per SKU, calculation basis and covered components | Align the brand target with the specification; cup, bowl and lid may have different compositions. |
| Dimensions and weight | Capacity, rim diameter, height, weight, tolerances and drawing | Match existing portions, lids, trays, shelves and shipping arrangements. |
| Food contact | Food type, filling/storage temperature, contact duration and relevant SKU documents | Assess suitability for the stated application; general material references do not replace product assessment. |
| Lids and sealing | Lid drawing or sample; film, machine and sealing settings if used | Test the container and closure together using the intended food and process. |
| Appearance consistency | Reference samples for colour, clarity, decoration and visual acceptance limits | Document the reference approved by the brand and QA teams. |
| Supply and commercial terms | Volume per SKU/design, forecast, MOQ, lead time, carton specification and delivery points | Compare the same scope: container, lid, decoration, logistics and schedule. |
§04 · Food contact
Material documents and conditions of use.
Recycled-material packaging review covers material sources, recycling processes, potential contaminants and intended use. QA teams should match available documents to the actual SKU, food type, temperature and contact duration. Technical reference: FDA.
Include composition, traceability and test-report requirements in the RFQ. The FDA reference helps frame technical questions; SEAL product documentation and suitability are confirmed for the item and destination market under review.
§05 · Samples and testing
A test plan before rollout.
Dimensions, weight and stacking
Review drawings and tolerances; test stacking against outlet, warehouse or shipping arrangements. Define container count, load and test conditions.
Compressive load
The technical team can review top-load testing and the suitability of ASTM D2659 procedures for the sample geometry. Method selection and acceptance limits are set for the tested SKU.
Operating conditions
Run samples with the planned temperature, food, machine, decoration and storage duration. Record results before approving rollout.
Compression test method scope should be assessed against container geometry and application. ASTM D2659.
SEAL group laboratory and facilities support →§06 · Pilot preparation
Sample approval and supply planning.
Choose one priority SKU for the initial evaluation. Record the drawing, material, lid, artwork, acceptance criteria and agreed test results. After sample approval, set MOQ, schedule, monthly forecast and distribution points before extending the programme.
Include your company, application, size and monthly forecast. A current sample or drawing helps the specification review.