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Composite materials based on PLA have been studied in depth for many applications, including food packaging. This manuscript describes extensive research conducted on a biodegradable polymer (PLA), inorganic filler (CaCO 3), and polyester-based plasticizer (PEP, based on a copolymer of low-molecular-weight PLA and PEG) prepared under semi-industrial conditions, as applicable for the packaging of hot food. The properties of the composite were achieved by post-processing annealing, notably its thermal stability, thereby permitting contact of the material with hot food. The manner of processing was deemed suitable for deployment at an industrial scale, moreover, the thermal stability of the final product endured, evidencing its applicability for such packaging. Change in the morphology of the structure of the composite material depended on the composition and annealing process, as detailed herein. The effect of the post-production thermal annealing on the molecular weight of samples was studied using the gel permeation chromatography. The thermal properties of the composites were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. The crystallinity was assessed using X-ray diffraction technique, while mechanical behavior was tested in relation to the given tensile properties, shape stability at high temperature, and permeability by the transmission rates of gas/water vapor. [Display omitted] • PLA composite with CaCO 3 and plasticizer was prepared under semi-industrial conditions with a post-processing annealing. • The properties of the composite depended on the morphology and volume fractions of the crystalline and amorphous regions. • The two additive components and given technological conditions lends shape stability to the composite. • The composite was suitable for contact with hot food or use as packaging for foodstuffs that are heated in microwave ovens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]