HDPE bottles — High-density polyethylene packaging

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) is one of the most widely used plastics in industrial, pharmaceutical and food packaging. LABOPICHOT has been manufacturing HDPE vials and bottles since 1989; these are renowned for their excellent chemical resistance, rigidity and compatibility with a wide range of products — from household goods and medicines to foodstuffs.

What is HDPE?

HDPE (recycling code HDPE – No. 2) is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic produced by the polymerisation of ethylene. Its very dense molecular structure gives it mechanical and barrier properties superior to those of LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene). Opaque to milky white in its natural form, it can be coloured in any shade.

Widely recycled (with a well-established recycling stream in France and Europe), HDPE is a sustainable and cost-effective choice for large-scale production. It is also available in a recycled version (rPET for PET, and recycled HDPE for non-food applications).

Technical Properties of HDPE

PropertyPEHDPETPP
TransparenceOpaque (blanc laiteux)TransparentSemi-transparent
Chemical resistanceExcellentGoodVery good
Impact resistanceVery goodGoodGood
Max. temperature~80°C~70°C~100°C
Contact alimentaireYes (approved)OuiOui
RecyclabilityStream 2 (well-established)Course 1Course 5
Density (g/cm³)0,94–0,971,380,90–0,91
RigidityHighMediumMedium

Advantages of HDPE bottles

  • ✓Exceptional chemical resistance — Suitable for use with diluted acids, bases, alcohol-based solvents, oils and detergents. Ideal for aggressive formulations.
  • ✓Protective opacity — Protects UV-sensitive products without the need for UV-stabilising colourant additives.
  • ✓Approved for food contact — Complies with European regulations governing contact with foodstuffs and food supplements.
  • ✓Excellent impact resistance — Withstands heavy-duty handling, the supply chain and drops without breaking into pieces.
  • ✓High recyclability — Recycling stream No. 2 is well established in France and across Europe, with collection rates rising sharply.
  • ✓Excellent value for money — A cost-effective material for large-scale production, with controlled production costs.
  • ✓Wide range of shapes — Available in round, square and oval bottles, as well as jugs and containers — all customisable to suit your needs.

Applications of HDPE Bottles by Sector

🧴 Cosmetics & Health & Beauty

Bottles for shampoos, shower gels, lotions and skincare products. Resistant to surfactants and alkaline formulations.

💊 Dietary supplements

Pill boxes and bottles for soft gel capsules, hard gel capsules and protein powders. Certified food-safe, with a protective opaque finish.

🐾 Vet

Containers for liquid veterinary medicines, antiparasitic treatments and animal care products. Suitable chemical resistance.

🏭 Pharmaceutique

Bottles for solid medicines (tablets, capsules), syrups and oral solutions. GMP compliance available.

Our Range of HDPE Bottles

LABOPICHOT offers a wide range of HDPE bottles, both in stock and made to measure: capacities from 30 ml to 5 litres, with standard (38 mm, 28 mm, 24 mm) or custom necks, in natural, white or black, or in other colours on request. Customisation via screen printing, labelling or sleeve is available for orders of 5,000 units or more.

30 ml – 100 ml
100 ml – 250 ml
250 ml – 500 ml
500 ml – 5 L

HDPE or PET — Which one should you choose?

HDPE and PET are often compared. HDPE is preferable when opacity is required, when chemical resistance is a priority, or for high-stress food applications. PET is the preferred choice for transparency (showcasing the product), low weight and premium cosmetic applications.

→ See our packaging material selection guide

Markets using this material

Pharmaceutical industryAnimal health / VeterinaryParapharmacy

Request a quote for HDPE bottles

French manufacturer since 1989. Minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 5,000 units, delivery within 3 weeks. Standard or bespoke HDPE bottles, with or without customisation.

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