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Are Plastic Takeout Containers Recyclable? B2B Guide
Are plastic takeout containers recyclable? Yes, but not all of them. Whether a plastic container can actually be recycled comes down to three things: the type of plastic it's made of, its shape, and its color.
This guide will show you how to use recycling numbers (resin codes) to quickly spot which takeout containers can be recycled and which ones can't. We will also share tips on how to choose and buy the recyclable containers in bulk for your business.
Resin Code Tells You What Plastic Takeout Containers Are Recyclable and Not Recyclable
Plastic takeout containers are usually made from PP (#5) and PS (#6), with some also made from PET (#1) and, less commonly, HDPE (#2), depending on the design and food type.
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) — Resin Code #1
PET is often used to make clear salad bowls, cold drink cups, and clear hinged containers. It is the most commonly recycled plastic in the U.S. and is accepted by most recycling programs.
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) — Resin Code #2
HDPE is used in some rigid food containers and is widely accepted in commercial and residential programs. However, HDPE is not used as much in standard takeout containers. It is used more often in lids, bottles, and jugs.
PP (Polypropylene) — Resin Code #5
Polypropylene is used in many hot food containers due to its high melting point, making it a great material for clamshells, injection-molded hot food containers, and microwaveable food containers. In the past, these materials were thrown into landfills, but modern recycling systems have improved enough to handle Code 5 plastics.
PS (Polystyrene) — Resin Code #6
Most recycling centers do not accept white Expanded polystyrene (foam) takeout containers. This is because they easily break into pieces during processing, ruin other recyclable materials, and are very difficult to resell.
Material Comparison for Commercial Procurement
Evaluate the four main choices side-by-side based on several factors: cost, performance, use cases, and environmental impact.
Resin code | Plastic type | Cost | Temperature Tolerance | Recyclable or Not | Use Cases |
#1 | PET / PETE | Low to moderate | Better for cold or room-temperature use | Yes, widely recyclable | Beverage bottles, salad containers, clear food packaging |
#2 | HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) | Low | Good heat resistance | Yes, widely recyclable | Milk jugs, rigid food containers, lids |
#5 | PP (Polypropylene) | Low to moderate | High heat tolerance; often microwave-safe | Recyclable; acceptance varies by local program | Takeout containers, reusable food containers |
#6 | PS (Polystyrene) | Very low | Poor heat tolerance; not good for hot foods or microwave use | Not recyclable | Foam clamshells, meat trays, cheap single-use packaging |
Source Recyclable Plastic Takeout Containers for Restaurants and Food Service
For takeout containers, #5 PP is usually the best choice because it balances cost, heat resistance, and use cases. #6 PS is usually the cheapest, but it performs worst for heat and recycling. #1 PET is more common for cold food items. These microwavable plastic takeout containers are great for packaging both hot and cold food items and are best for a variety of meal types.
- PP food containers: Available in round, square, or rectangular shapes, with options that include compartments. These containers help keep food fresh and stop it from leaking. They're especially useful for meal prep service, food delivery services, and catering companies.
- MFPP hinged containers: MFPP clamshells are often used for takeout meals like burgers, sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes, as well as desserts like cakes and pastries.
- Deli containers: They are great for packaging hot and cold liquids, such as sauces, dressings, and soups.
If you need to buy plastic hot food containers in bulk, LRpacking can help. As a leading manufacturer of disposable food containers, we offer PP takeout containers that are completely microwave-safe and BPA-free. You can use them with peace of mind, knowing there are no toxic chemicals leaking into your food.
For inquiries regarding recyclable plastic takeout containers, please contact us. Our team is here to assist you with packaging solutions, large orders, custom branding, and more. Please provide us with your contact information, and we will respond promptly.
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