Ekomon

SAN or Tritan: which material to choose for your reusable cups

SAN and Tritan are the two reference transparent plastics when you want the look of glass without the risk of breakage. We explain how they differ so you can choose the one that best fits your event or business.

Clarity and glossSANTritan
Clarity and glossVery high, crystal-like glossExcellent, glass-like
Impact resistanceMedium-high: withstands knocks, but may crack in hard dropsMaximum: virtually unbreakable
Industrial washingGood; degrades sooner under many aggressive cyclesVery high: keeps its gloss after many washes
Resistance to alcohol and citrusSensitive to oils and high-strength alcoholVery high
Food safetyBPA-freeFree from BPA and other bisphenols
CostEconomicalHigh

SAN (styrene-acrylonitrile): the balanced option

A rigid material with high surface hardness and crystal-like gloss.

Advantages

  • Good scratch resistance
  • Best value for money
  • BPA-free

Worth knowing

More fragile in hard drops and, with very intensive industrial washing, loses clarity sooner than Tritan.

Ideal for

Terraces, events and distribution where unit cost matters while keeping a glass look.

Tritan: the maximum-durability option

Eastman's copolyester, the standard for high-turnover reusable cups.

Advantages

  • Extreme drop resistance, does not splinter
  • Withstands industrial washing without yellowing or clouding
  • Free from BPA and other bisphenols
  • Retains no odours or flavours and tolerates cocktails with alcohol and citrus

Worth knowing

More expensive and can mark slightly more with friction if handled without proper racks.

Ideal for

High turnover, daily washing, premium events and cocktail service.

How to choose

  • If you want the best price with a glass look: SAN.
  • If you wash daily or need maximum durability: Tritan.
  • If you need another material (for example, polypropylene): ask us.

Frequently asked questions

Does Tritan contain BPA?
No, it is free from BPA and other bisphenols.
Is SAN or Tritan better?
It depends on use: SAN is more economical and Tritan lasts longer with intensive washing.