Plastic Symbols

Have you ever wondered what the numbers, or recycling symbols mean at the bottom of plastic bottles and containers?

Ok, a step back… have you ever notice that all plastic products have an identify symbols looking like this?

Probably you have seen it a lot of times, but do you know which information should be supposed to give you?

In its original form, the symbols used as part of the RIC (Resin Identification Code) consisted of arrows that cycle clockwise to form a triangle that encloses a number, ranging from 1 to 7. The number broadly refers to the type of plastic used in the product and other useful information about the toxic chemicals used in the plastic, how it is to leach, how bio-degradable it is , and ultimately the safety of the plastic.

#1 – PETE or PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

Uses: Polyester fibers (Polar Fleece), thermoformed sheet, strapping, soft drink bottles, tote bags, furniture, carpet, paneling and (occasionally) new containers.

Recycling: Picked up through most curbside recycling programs.

Some consider it safe, but this plastic is known to allow bacteria to accumulate.

#2 – HDPE or PE-HD (High-density polyethylene)

Uses: Bottles, grocery bags, milk jugs, recycling bins, agricultural pipe, base cups, car stops, playground equipment, and plastic lumber.

Recycling: Picked up through most curbside recycling programs, although some allow only those containers with necks.

Considered to be safe, and has a lower risk of leaching.

#3 – PVC or V (Polyvinyl chloride)

Uses: Pipe, Window profile, Siding, fencing, flooring, shower curtains, lawn chairs, non-food bottles and children’s toys.

Recycling: Extensively recycled in Europe, 481,000 tonnes in 2014 through Vinyl 2010 and VinylPlus initiatives.

#4 – LDPE or PE-LD (Low-density polyethylene)

Uses: Plastic bags, 6 pack rings, various containers, dispensing bottles, wash bottles, tubing, and various molded laboratory equipment.

Recycling: LDPE is not often recycled through curbside programs, but some communities will accept it. Plastic shopping bags can be returned to many stores for recycling.

Considered to be safe.

#5 – PP (Polypropylene)

Uses: Auto parts, industrial fibers, food containers, and dishware.

Recycling: Can be recycled through some curbside programs.

Considered one of the safer plastics.

#6 – PS (Polystyrene)

Uses: Desk accessories, cafeteria trays, plastic utensils, toys, video cassettes and cases, clamshell containers, packaging peanuts, and insulation board and other expanded polystyrene products.

Recycling: Can be recycled through some curbside programs.

Leaching potentially toxic chemicals, especially when heated.

#7 – OTHER

Uses: Bottles, plastic lumber applications, headlight lenses, and safety shields/glasses..

Recycling: Traditionally not been recycled. Some curbside programs now take them.

These plastics should be avoided due to possibly containing hormone disruptors like BPA, which has been linked to infertility, hyperactivity, reproductive problems, and other health issues.

NOTE: Generally speaking, it would always be better to avoid all plastic use for food when you are able, but in any case 2, 4 and 5 are considered safe for human and animal consumption.