What do the symbols on plastic containers actually mean?

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Have you ever wondered what the symbols on plastic containers mean? We see them all the time and we know they are there to tell us something, but what?!

They are actually telling us a couple of things:

1. If the plastic can be recycled
2. What the plastic contains
3. How likely the plastic is to leach
4. How bio-degradable the plastic is

We know already that some plastics are safer than others but it’s time to know which are the safer ones.

What the symbols on plastic containers mean for recycling…

Did you know that not all plastics can go in your outside recycle bin?

All rigid plastics labelled 1-6 can be recycled. A quick way to be able to tell if a plastic can be recycled is:

– holds its shape when crumpled and/or

– would hold liquid

Types of plastics that cannot be recycled are:

• lightweight polystyrene, such as used for meat trays
• Packaging, including foam packing ‘peanuts’
• hot drink cups

If you like this post then check out: Fluoride, Low Fluoride or Fluoride Free?

Ok, so what do the actual symbols on plastic containers mean?

Symbol 1 PET or PETE (polyethylene Terephthalate)

 

Recyclable – Yes

Usually found as – Soda bottles, water bottles, detergent bottles, salad dressing bottles

Recycled into – Tote bags, furniture, carpet

Generally considered safe as it does not leach however it has been known to allow bacteria to accumulate.

 

Symbol 2 HDPE (High Density Polyethylene)

 

Recyclable – Yes

Usually found as – Milk and cream bottles, shampoo bottles, cleaning product bottles

Recycled into – Pens, picnic tables, detergent bottles, drainage pipe

Carries a low risk of leaching and is one of the 3 plastics to be considered safe.

 

Symbol 3 V (Vinyl) or PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

 

Recyclable – Yes

Usually found as – Juice bottles, laundry detergent bottles, clear food packaging

Recycled into – Decks, panelling and speed bumps

Toxic when heated. Contain DEHA which has been linked to loss of bone mass and liver problems.

 

Symbol 4 LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene)

 

Recyclable – Yes

Usually found as – Squeezable bottles, shopping bags, clothing and bread bags

Recycled into – Compost bins, floor tiles and shipping envelopes

LDPE is safe.

 

Symbol 5 PP (Polypropylene)

 

Recyclable – Yes

Usually found as – Ice cream containers, bottle caps and ketchup, syrup and medicine containers.

Recycled into – Battery cases, bike racks and brooms

This is another safe plastic.

 

Symbol 6 PS (Polystyrene)

 

Recyclable – Yes

Usually found as – Yoghurt and butter containers, CD cases, disposable plates and cups

Recycled into – Egg cartons, vents and foam packaging

Known to be bad for the environment. Leaches toxins when heated.

 

Symbol 7 Other

 

Recyclable – No

Usually found as – Sunglasses, iPod cases and computer cases

Any other plastic that doesn’t fit into any of the above categories falls under 7. Can include acrylic and nylon.

Symbol 7 can also include Polycarbonate which contains the toxic bisphenol-A (BPA). BPA is a known hormone disruptor which has been linked to infertility, hyperactivity, reproductive problems, and other health issues.

 

EPS (Expanded Polystyrene)

 

 

Recyclable – No

Usually found as – Packaging, hot drink cups, packaging foam “peanuts”

EPS is considered safe.

 

In conclusion…

Most plastics can be recycled but keep an eye out for number 7 and EPS.

If you can, try to avoid plastic where possible. Here are some ideas:

• Instead of buying water in plastic bottles, instead, buy it in glass bottles or better yet, grab yourself a refillable bottle and then fill with filtered water (this is better for you anyway)
• Always carry a reusable shopping bag when out and about.
  
• Buy a box of laundry detergent instead of a bottle.
  
• Make your own fresh juice instead of buying it
  
• Buy a plastic free sandwich container to avoid using a sandwich bag.

 

For some other great plastic alternatives check out Big Green Smile  and Natural Collection

For easy reference, why not pin this image…

 

Got any other great tips or ideas for avoiding plastic? I would love to hear them, please share below!