In this article, we will explain how our tea bags are made.
1.Harvesting and Processing Corn
- Corn kernels are harvested and milled.
- Starch is extracted and then fermented by bacteria to produce lactic acid.
2. Creating Polylactic Acid (PLA)
- The lactic acid undergoes a polymerization process to form PLA, a biodegradable plastic-like material.
- PLA can be processed into films or fibers, depending on the application.
3. Spinning PLA Fibers
- The PLA is melted and extruded into fine fibers, similar to how synthetic fabrics are made.
- These fibers are spun into a non-woven mesh, which looks and feels like paper or silk
4. Forming the Teabag Mesh
- The PLA mesh is formed into sheets of material.
- This material is strong, heat-sealable, and food-safe, making it ideal for teabags
5. Cutting and Sealing
- The mesh sheets are cut into teabag shapes (pyramid or flat).
- Heat-sealing or ultrasonic sealing is used to close the teabags (since PLA melts with heat).
- No plastic glue or staples are needed.
6. Filling and Packaging
- The teabags are filled with tea leaves.
- Strings and tags, also made from compostable materials, are attached.
- The final teabags are packed in plastic-free or compostable packaging to maintain full eco-friendliness.
Compostability Notes :
- PLA is industrially compostable — it typically breaks down in commercial composting facilities (high heat, moisture, microbes).
- Some PLA blends may not break down well in home compost bins, unless specifically designed for that.
Advantages :
- Plastic-free
- Renewable resource (corn)
- Reduces microplastic pollution in tea
Considerations:
- Still requires industrial composting for full breakdown
Corn-based PLA relies on agricultural inputs (land, water, energy)
