Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a bioplastic increasingly common in baby products, such as dishes, cutlery, and toys. It is often marketed as a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. Parents are concerned about the safety of materials that come into direct contact with their infant, especially given the history of chemicals found in older plastic types. Determining if PLA is suitable for infant use requires investigating its composition, regulatory status, and performance under typical household conditions.
Understanding PLA’s Composition and Source
Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a polyester derived from fermented plant starches, unlike petroleum-based plastics like polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP). The primary source is often corn starch, but it can also be made from sugarcane, cassava, or sugar beet pulp. The process converts plant starch into sugar, which is then fermented by microorganisms, often Lactobacillus bacteria, to produce lactic acid.
This lactic acid is then polymerized into long molecular chains, forming the solid plastic resin. Although the starting material is renewable, the resulting polymer is a synthetic plastic. It requires processing with various additives to achieve desired properties, such as flexibility, color, and stability. This bio-based origin often promotes PLA as an environmentally conscious choice for children’s products.
Safety Standards and Regulatory Status
PLA is widely approved for food contact by major international regulatory bodies, which sets the standard for baby feeding items. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates PLA resin for food contact under specific sections of the Code of Federal Regulations, such as 21 CFR 177. This approval confirms that the material, under normal intended use, is not expected to transfer harmful substances into food.
In Europe, PLA must comply with the general safety requirements of the Framework Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004. This mandates that materials do not pose a risk to human health or change the composition, taste, or odor of food. Specific migration limits (SMLs) and an overall migration limit (OML) are set by Regulation (EU) No 10/2011. These regulations require manufacturers to perform rigorous migration testing to ensure the safety of the finished product, including all additives.
Potential Risks: Leaching and Thermal Stability
Concerns about PLA focus on its performance under stress, particularly its thermal stability. PLA has a relatively low glass transition temperature, meaning it softens and degrades when exposed to heat compared to traditional plastics. Using PLA products for very hot liquids, such as boiling water or hot milk, or exposing them to high-temperature sterilization accelerates degradation.
When PLA breaks down due to heat, it can release residual monomers or processing additives, though the primary degradation product is non-toxic lactic acid. While PLA does not contain BPA, other manufacturing chemicals can potentially leach out under harsh conditions. Research suggests that some PLA items may leach chemicals that induce toxicity when exposed to realistic use conditions. This potential for chemical release is heightened when the material exceeds recommended limits, often around 140°F (60°C).
Practical Considerations for Caregivers
Caregivers must treat PLA products carefully due to their heat sensitivity and physical properties. The most important step is strictly following the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions, as methods suitable for traditional plastics often damage PLA. Acceptable cleaning involves handwashing with warm water and mild, unscented dish soap.
Unsafe practices include placing PLA items in a standard dishwasher, especially on a heated drying cycle, or sterilizing them by boiling. These high temperatures cause the material to warp, weaken its structure, and increase the potential for chemical leaching. PLA is also more brittle than other polymers and may degrade physically over time, leading to cracks that can harbor bacteria and require earlier replacement. Always air-dry the product completely before storage to prevent mold growth.