PLA Fiber
PLA fiber is a non-toxic, sustainable alternative to petroleum-derived products. It’s also an excellent alternative to wool, since it’s hypoallergenic and performs well in the wash. PLA fiber provides a soft and comfortable feel, wicks away moisture, and resists body impressions. Naturepedic’s specially formulated PLA fiber is tested for chemical emissions and meets the most stringent GREENGUARD emissions standard. Naturepedic’s PLA fiber is made from potatoes and is completely GMO-free – they test both the raw material and the final product.
PLA fiber starts with an abundant, natural resource – plants (in this case potatoes). The starch gets isolated from the other components of the plant and gets turned into sugar. The sugar is fermented in a process similar to making yogurt to create lactic acid. Lactic acid is a naturally occurring material that gives the “tang” to yogurt and makes your muscles ache after a work-out. From lactic acid a molecule called lactide is created. Water is then removed and it gets crystallized to create the high-performance polymer – polylactide (PLA). Also known as polylactide, PLA is a non-aromatic polyester derived 100% from renewable resources.