CELESTA | Tritan Material Information and Resin Codes

The Secret Language of Plastics: Resin Codes and What You Need to Know

Beyond Resin Codes: Why TRITAN is the Name of Reliability

Underneath almost every plastic product we use in our daily lives, we see a number inside triangular arrows. This symbol, called the "Resin Identification Code" (RIC), is essentially the chemical identity of the plastic and aims to make it easier for recycling facilities to sort plastics by type.

For the end consumer, this code offers a starting point about the product's raw material. Unfortunately, some commercial practices and tricks we encounter today can weaken the meaning and reliability of this coding system. Incorrectly labeled, low-quality, or products with complex contents make it difficult for the consumer to make the right choice.

So, in an environment where a code alone is not enough, how can we distinguish quality and safety?

The answer is to go beyond the code and focus on the material itself, that is, on its proven technology. This is where TRITAN stands out by offering much more than a raw material standard.

Meet TRITAN: Unbreakable Clarity, Unconditional Safety

We have adopted the principle that the raw material we use is the identity of our product and our brand, and TRITAN copolyester has enabled us to build this identity on excellence.

Uncompromising Health Assurance: With its structure free of BPA, BPS, and all other bisphenol derivatives, it meets the strictest health regulations (FDA, EFSA). Its anti-bacterial surface and zero VOC emissions elevate hygiene to the highest level. The worry of "Is it safe?" is now a thing of the past.

Unrivaled Durability Performance: TRITAN combines near-glass clarity with the impact resistance of polycarbonate. Its superior resistance to chemicals, high temperatures, and repeated dishwasher cycles makes it unrivaled in a wide range of applications, from medical devices to outdoor water bottles, baby products, and industrial equipment.

In short, in the face of market uncertainties, TRITAN is not just a raw material; it is a promise of technology and trust that we offer to our projects and our customers.

Resin Codes and Their Meanings, Which Number Represents What?

PET or PETE (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

Number: 1

PET is a transparent, lightweight, and durable plastic, often preferred for beverage and food packaging.

Uses: Water, soda, and oil bottles, salad dressing containers.

Health Evaluation: It is generally considered safe for food contact. However, these packages are designed for single use. The risk of chemical leaching into food may increase when used repeatedly or exposed to heat.

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

Number: 2

HDPE is a rigid, opaque, and chemically resistant type of plastic.

Uses: Milk bottles, water gallons, yogurt containers.

Health Evaluation: It is considered one of the safest plastics for food contact. The risk of harmful chemicals leaching into food is very low.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride):

Number: 3

Uses: Generally used for non-food product packaging (e.g., cling film, window frames, pipes).

Health Evaluation: It is recommended to avoid food contact. It may leach harmful chemicals like phthalates during production and use.

LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)

Number: 4

LDPE is a more flexible and softer plastic than HDPE.

Uses: Cling films, food storage bags, squeezable bottles (honey, ketchup, etc.).

Health Evaluation: It is considered safe for food contact.

PP (Polypropylene)

Number: 5

PP is a rigid, lightweight, and highly heat-resistant type of plastic.

Uses: Storage containers, yogurt containers, baby bottles, microwave-safe containers.

Health Evaluation: It is considered one of the safest plastics for food contact. It stands out for its high-temperature resistance.

PS (Polystyrene)

Number: 5

Uses: Used in disposable cups, plates, yogurt containers, and foam packaging (styrofoam).

Health Evaluation: There is a risk of leaching potentially carcinogenic substances like styrene, especially when in contact with hot or greasy foods.

Other

Number: 7

Category number 7, called "Other," is a "mixed" category that includes a wide variety of plastics that do not fit into the other six categories. This can create confusion for consumers. This category may contain plastics to be avoided, such as old-generation polycarbonate (PC) which may contain Bisphenol A (BPA), but it also includes state-of-the-art, extremely safe, and healthy raw materials like Tritan™.

Therefore, seeing the number 7 on a product does not mean it is unhealthy. What is important is knowing which specific raw material the number 7 represents.

Featured Raw Material: TRITAN™ Copolyester

Number: 7

Tritan™ is a next-generation copolyester developed by Eastman. It has revolutionized products that come into contact with food with its glass-like clarity, superior impact resistance, and absolute health safety. The reason we at Celesta® use Tritan™ in our products is our commitment to providing our consumers with the healthiest and highest quality experience.

Health Evaluation: Tritan™ is one of the safest options among plastics that come into contact with food.

Free of BPA, BPS, and Other Bisphenols: It does not contain any harmful chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA) or similar substances that can disrupt hormonal balance in the body. This feature has been tested and approved by independent international laboratories.

Does Not Leave Odor or Taste: It never alters the taste or smell of foods.

High Heat Resistance: It can be safely washed in the top rack of a dishwasher and does not deform or become cloudy over time.

Superior Durability: It is extremely resistant to drops and impacts, and does not crack or break. This makes it an excellent choice for children and active lifestyles.

In conclusion; while the number is a guide when choosing plastics, the most important thing is the raw material itself. Especially in category 7, modern materials like Tritan™ that prioritize health and safety are completely distinct from older technologies. Therefore, paying attention to phrases like "BPA-free" or "Tritan" on product labels allows you to make the most conscious choice.