How to Identify High-Quality Plastic Products: A Buyer’s Guide

Introduction 

When shopping for plastic products—whether food containers, drinkware, or storage solutions—it’s important to distinguish between high-quality plastics and inferior alternatives. At SUAN Houseware, we manufacture premium virgin PP (polypropylene) products, ensuring safety, durability, and performance.  

This guide will help you:  

Identify high-quality plastics in everyday products  

Spot warning signs of poor-quality plastics  

Understand safety certifications (FDA, LFGB, etc.)  

Make informed purchasing decisions  

1. Check the Plastic Resin Code 

Most plastic products have a recycling symbol (♳) with a number (1-7). Here’s what to look for:  

| Code | Plastic Type | Common Uses | Safety & Quality Notes |

|-----|----------|----------------|---------------------------|

| #1 (PET) | Polyethylene Terephthalate | Water bottles, food packaging | Safe for single use; avoid reusing long-term |

| #2 (HDPE) | High-Density Polyethylene | Milk jugs, detergent bottles | Food-safe, durable, widely recycled |

| #5 (PP) | Polypropylene | Food containers, straws, baby bottles | Our choice – heat-resistant, BPA-free, odorless |

| #7 (Other) | Mixed plastics (e.g., PC, ABS) | Some reusable bottles, electronics | Avoid if unlabeled (may contain BPA) |

Best Choices for Safety:#2 (HDPE), #5 (PP)  

Avoid if Possible: #3 (PVC, contains phthalates), #7 (unless labeled BPA-free)  

2. Inspect for Quality: Key Signs of Good vs. Bad Plastic  

A. Appearance & Texture  

| High-Quality Plastic | Low-Quality Plastic |  

|------------------|----------------------|  

| Smooth, even surface | Rough, uneven texture |  

| Consistent color (no yellowing) | Discolored or cloudy |  

| No visible impurities | Flecks, bubbles, or streaks |  

B. Odor Test  

- Good plastic: Odorless (especially important for food storage).  

- Bad plastic: Strong chemical or "plastic" smell (indicates additives or recycled content).  

C. Flexibility & Durability  

- High-quality PP (like ours) bends without cracking.  

- Cheap plastic may feel brittle or break easily.  

D. Weight & Thickness  

- Thicker, denser plastic = longer lifespan.  

- Flimsy, lightweight plastic = likely recycled or low-grade.  

3. Look for Safety Certifications

Reputable manufacturers comply with international standards:  

FDA (U.S.) / LFGB (EU): Food-safe approval  

BPA-Free: Critical for drinkware and baby products  

RoHS/REACH: Ensures no hazardous chemicals  

At SUAN House, all our products meet FDA/LFGB standards and are 100% BPA-free. 

4. Common Red Flags

No resin code or manufacturer info = Unregulated material  

Sticky or greasy surface = Plasticizers leaching out  

Fades or warps easily = Poor UV/heat resistance  

5. Why Choose Virgin PP Over Recycled? 

While recycled plastics are eco-friendly, they often:  

- Lose strength after reprocessing  

- May contain contaminants (dyes, residues)  

- Have shorter lifespans  

We use only virgin PP for:  

No odors or taste transfer (ideal for food/drinks)  

Superior durability (lasts years, not months)  

Guaranteed safety (no unknown additives)  

Conclusion: Smart Plastic Shopping Tips  

1. Check the resin code (#2, #5 safest).  

2. Avoid strong smells or discoloration.  

3. Prefer thicker, sturdier designs.  

4. Look for FDA/LFGB certifications.  

5. When in doubt, ask the manufacturer (like us!).  

Need guaranteed high-quality plastic products?  

Contact us: [email protected]  

Explore our catalog: www.suanhouse.com