- Standard Specification: 98mm caliber PET plastic cups are the industry standard for premium cold beverages, offering crystal clarity and high durability.
- Key Material Advantages: High transparency, rigid wall structure, crack resistance, and 100% recyclability (RIC #1).
- PET vs. PP Decision: PET provides maximum optical clarity for cold drinks (≤60°C/140°F). Polypropylene (PP) handles hot liquids (≤120°C) but is less transparent.
- Operational Compatibility: Requires 98mm matching lids or a universal sealing machine with a 98mm adapter ring.
1. What Are 98mm PET Plastic Cups?
98mm PET plastic cups are commercial beverage containers manufactured from Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) with a top rim diameter (caliber) of exactly 98mm. They are widely adopted by global bubble tea chains, specialty coffee shops, and smoothie bars due to their glass-like clarity, sturdy feel, and superior branding surface.
2. PET vs. PP Plastic Cups: Comparison Matrix
Choosing between Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and Polypropylene (PP) depends on your drink menu and presentation goals:
| Specification / Feature | 98mm PET Cups | Standard PP Cups |
|---|---|---|
| Clarity & Appearance | Crystal Clear (Glass-like) | Translucent / Semi-cloudy |
| Max Temperature | Cold drinks only (≤60°C / 140°F) | Hot & Cold (≤120°C / 248°F) |
| Durability & Stiffness | Rigid, highly crack-resistant | Flexible, softer wall |
| Standard Caliber | 98mm (or 92mm) | 95mm |
| Recyclability Code | PET (Widely accepted) | PP |
| Ideal Applications | Iced fruit tea, boba, iced lattes, smoothies | Hot milk tea, budget takeaway drinks |
3. Key Sourcing Criteria for Drink Shop Owners
Capacity and Sizing Options
- 16 oz (500 ml): Standard size for regular iced coffee, milk tea, and cold brew.
- 20 oz / 22 oz (600–700 ml): Popular for large fruit teas and drinks with extra toppings or ice.
- 24 oz (750 ml): Jumbo size for specialty signature beverages.
Lid & Sealing Machine Compatibility
Ensure that your store’s packaging workflow matches your cup dimensions:
- Snap-on Lids: 98mm PET flat lids (with straw slot), dome lids (for whipped cream/frappes), or direct-sip/strawless lids.
- Automatic Cup Sealers: If using heat-seal films, verify that your sealing machine supports a 98mm ring adapter and PET-compatible sealing film.
4. Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Can 98mm PET plastic cups hold hot tea or warm boba?
No. PET plastic deforms when exposed to temperatures exceeding 60°C (140°F). For hot beverages, choose Polypropylene (PP) cups or double-wall paper cups.
Will a standard 95mm cup sealer work on 98mm PET cups?
Most standard cup sealing machines default to 95mm for PP cups. To seal 98mm PET cups, you need a universal sealer fitted with a 98mm mold ring and PET-compatible film.
Are 98mm PET cups recyclable?
Yes. PET is classified under Recycling Code, making it one of the most easily and widely recycled plastics worldwide.
