Four terms, four different questions.
PET is the polymer family: polyethylene terephthalate. APET describes an amorphous form of PET; the “A” does not mean recycled content.
rPET means recycled PET. PCR means post-consumer recycled origin and should be paired with the polymer name, such as PCR PET or PCR HDPE. A claim about recycled content needs a defined material route and evidence.
When a buyer asks for “eco PET,” the useful next question is whether they mean recycled content, recyclability, a certain polymer form or a market-specific requirement.
What to ask your packaging supplier
- Which exact material and bottle model are being proposed?
- What closure and seal combination has been checked?
- Which use conditions and target markets are covered by the available documents?
- Can we review a finished sample and current specification?
Bring these answers into your own product validation process before approving the final pack.