Our plastics are not water soluble, as this would cause several issues with the performance of the straws. However, they are made from certified resin that is Marine Degradable which means that if our plastics unfortunately do make it into the ocean as debris, they would fully break down and be eaten by microorganisms.
Yes! Our products are made from food-grade ingredients and just like any other food item you leave out in your kitchen, it can attract mold. Our products should be stored in a closed, dry environment for best results.
Our plastic is stronger than conventional plastic. Our products have been tested to hold up to 4 lbs. of weight. They will not rip, tear, or puncture without sustained force. And yes, our products are meant to break apart, but not before they live a long, reliable life. When properly stored, our products retain full strength for their intended use.
Due to the organic nature of the materials that make up Pura Vida Bioplastics products, it is recommended that the products not be exposed to direct sun light or extreme temperatures (above 80° F) for a prolonged period of time.
That said, our products perform without fail when stored in COMMON environments such as one’s home, garage, vehicle, or place of business, and when used within 1 year of purchase date.
The term, “food grade,” refers to the materials used in equipment. To be defined as food grade, materials need to be non-toxic and safe for consumption. Our products are made from food-grade ingredients along with natural and chemical-free ink. Therefore, they are completely safe for any use. Please do not consume any of the products!
Our plastics are designed to be composted. Once the product has been used, we suggest that it be put into a backyard composter, or taken to a local facility that has a bio-solid composter. If there is no compost facility or anaerobic digester in your area, you may be able to work with your municipality, or waste disposal company, to help develop this infrastructure.
We continually promote the movement toward “Zero Waste to Landfill”, and want to inform people that biological materials such as dog waste do not need to end up in the trash bin. However, we understand that composting is not available or viable for everyone.
Even when disposed of at a traditional landfill, our plastics are still the better choice, because our products will break down into an energy-rich biogas in a short amount of time, unlike other plastics, which take centuries to break down in anaerobic digestion (meaning “without oxygen”).