Maya Ellison
Plastic food containers, such as Tupperware, are often recyclable, but the process can be confusing due to the variety of plastic types and local recycling programs. Tupperware products are typically labelled with recycling codes, indicated by a triangle of three chasing arrows and a number, which helps recycling centres sort them. However, certain types of plastic, like number 5 rigid plastics, are not always accepted at recycling centres. To ensure proper recycling, individuals should check with their local municipality and recycling hauler to understand the specific rules and accepted materials for their program. Additionally, it is important to rinse and clean all items before placing them in the recycling bin.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic Tupperware recyclability | Tupperware and other food containers are sometimes accepted for recycling and sometimes not, due to the type of material it's made from and the local program. |
| Plastic types | Polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, etc. |
| Plastic identification | Check for the plastic resin symbol, a triangle made of three chasing arrows with a number inside. |
| Plastic resin symbol numbers | 1 and 2 are accepted in almost all local recycling programs. Number 5 plastics are not widely accepted at U.S. recycling centers. |
| Recycling programs | Check with your municipality, city, or recycling hauler to understand their specific rules. Use the Earth 911 database to find the closest recycling center. |
| Preparation | Rinse and clean all items before placing them in the recycling bin. |
| Other recyclable materials | Aluminum cans, milk jugs, cardboard, and paper (kept separate). |
| Non-recyclable materials | Aluminum foil, plastic utensils, Styrofoam containers, plastic wrap, plastic bags, compostable plastics. |
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What You'll Learn
Tupperware's recycling codes and plastic resin symbols
Tupperware is recyclable, and many of its products are labelled with recycling codes to help recycling centres sort them correctly. The number inside the triangle, or the Mobius symbol, indicates the type of plastic the Tupperware product is made of. This is known as the plastic resin symbol or code.
The plastic resin identification coding system was created in 1988 to improve the identification of resin types for recycling programs. The codes, usually numbers 1 to 7, indicate the type of plastic used in the product. The numbers are as follows:
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PETE or PET) - a thin plastic that is made to be semi-rigid or rigid and impact-resistant. PET is the most common plastic for single-use bottled beverages because it is inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to recycle.
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE) - a hard, opaque plastic that is thin but strong. HDPE has one of the highest recycling rates and is often used for plastic shopping bags.
- Vinyl (V) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) - PVC is a common type of plastic that is biologically and chemically resistant. It is also flexible in high heat temperatures. However, it is hard to recycle and is known to contain phthalates, which may cause health issues if humans are exposed.
- Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) - LDPE is thinner and more flexible than HDPE and can withstand high heat temperatures. It is tough and flexible and is mostly used in stretch film applications.
- Polypropylene (PP) - PP can be made translucent or opaque and can endure high temperatures, so it is often used for food packaging products that can be used in microwaves or cleaned in dishwashers. It has a high melting point and is gradually becoming more accepted by recyclers.
- Polystyrene (PS) - a hard, colourless plastic with low flexibility. It can be made into foam or cast into moulds and is very common, often seen in solid or foamed form like Styrofoam. However, it is not accepted by most recycling facilities.
- Other - this category includes all other types of plastic resins that do not fit into the previous categories, such as polycarbonate, bioplastic polylactide, and bioplastics like PLA (polylactic acid). These plastics typically do not have a standard for reuse unless they are compostable.
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Local recycling programs
One way to identify if your plastic Tupperware is recyclable is to look for the plastic resin code, often found at the bottom of the container. Containers with a number 1 or 2 symbol are accepted by almost all local recycling programs. However, number 5 rigid plastics are not widely accepted at recycling centres in the US. If your local program doesn't accept number 5 plastics, you can explore alternatives like mail-in recycling programs or other options suggested by websites such as Earth911.com.
It's worth noting that some companies, like Rubbermaid, have partnered with organisations like TerraCycle to offer free food storage recycling programs. These programs accept all brands of food storage containers and provide a prepaid shipping label for convenience. However, it's always a good idea to check the latest information, as programs can undergo changes or closures.
To ensure effective recycling, it's essential to keep your plastic items clean and rinsed before placing them in the recycling bin. Additionally, avoid using plastic bags for recycling collection, opting instead for clear or see-through blue bags if necessary. While reducing plastic waste can be challenging, local recycling programs play a crucial role in diverting plastic from landfills and contributing to a more sustainable future.
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Reusing Tupperware
When it comes to reusing Tupperware, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it's important to check the type of plastic the container is made of. Tupperware is often made of BPA-free plastic and labelled with recycling codes to help recycling centres sort them properly. Look for the plastic resin symbol, which is usually a triangle made of three chasing arrows with a number inside. This number indicates the type of plastic, and different recycling centres may have different acceptance policies for each type.
Another option for reusing Tupperware is to take advantage of the company's lifetime warranty. If your container is stained, warped, or has a missing lid, you may be able to replace it for free instead of throwing it away. This way, you can continue reusing your Tupperware for a longer period.
Additionally, you can get creative and find new ways to reuse your Tupperware around the house. For example, you can use them to store small items such as office supplies, craft materials, or even jewellery. You can also use them as organisers in your drawers or closets.
Finally, it's important to properly care for your Tupperware to extend their lifespan. This includes proper cleaning and avoiding warping or staining. With proper care, your Tupperware can last for many years, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Remember, reducing our reliance on single-use plastics is crucial in minimizing our environmental impact.
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Tupperware's lifetime warranty
Tupperware products are designed to be reused, reducing single-use plastic waste. However, when they reach the end of their life, it's important to recycle them properly. Tupperware products are made from BPA-free plastic and are recyclable. Many are labelled with recycling codes to help recycling centres sort them correctly. The number inside the triangle, which is the universal plastic resin symbol, indicates the type of plastic the product is made from.
Tupperware products are covered by a limited lifetime warranty. This means that if your product is subject to the warranty and it chips, cracks, breaks, peels or warps under normal, non-commercial use, Tupperware will replace the product or provide a credit for future purchases. Premium products are also covered by a lifetime warranty and are warranted to be free from defects in material or workmanship under normal, non-commercial use.
To initiate a warranty claim, you can reach out to your independent Tupperware consultant or fill out the Warranty Claim Form. In some circumstances, you may be required to send the affected item to Tupperware at your own expense. You may also be required to provide photographic or video evidence of the product's failure.
If your Tupperware is stained, warped, or you've lost the lid, you can take advantage of the lifetime warranty and replace your containers for free. Alternatively, you can recycle your Tupperware through the Rubbermaid Food Storage Recycling Program in partnership with TerraCycle. This program accepts all brands of food storage containers. Simply register on the TerraCycle website, print a prepaid shipping label, and send off your old containers for recycling.
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Rinsing and cleaning Tupperware before recycling
Once you've confirmed your Tupperware is recyclable, it's time to clean it. Start by removing any stains and odours. A natural way to do this is by using baking soda. Create a paste with warm water and baking soda, rub it inside the container, and let it sit for a day. Then, thoroughly rinse it out. Repeat this process until stains and odours are gone. You can also try leaving the container in direct sunlight, as the sun's rays are a natural disinfectant and can help eliminate bacteria and odours.
If your Tupperware has hard water stains, fill it with white vinegar and let it sit overnight. This will help remove those stubborn stains. Additionally, ensure your Tupperware is completely dry before recycling. Leaving moisture inside can lead to the growth of mould or bacteria, which is not ideal for the recycling process.
Remember, recycling facilities may have different requirements for accepting Tupperware, so it's always a good idea to check with your local municipality or recycling centre before dropping off your items. Some facilities may have specific guidelines or restrictions regarding the cleanliness of the Tupperware. By rinsing and cleaning your Tupperware before recycling, you're not only being considerate to those handling the recycling process but also ensuring your Tupperware has the best chance of being recycled into something new.
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Frequently asked questions
Tupperware and other plastic food containers are sometimes accepted for recycling and sometimes not, depending on the type of material and your local program. Tupperware's BPA-free plastic containers are recyclable, and many are labeled with recycling codes to help recycling centers sort them. Containers with a number 1 or 2 symbol on the bottom are accepted in almost all local recycling programs, while number 5 rigid plastics are not widely accepted at U.S. recycling centers.
Before tossing your plastic Tupperware in the recycling bin, check the plastic resin code on the bottom of the container. If your local recycling program doesn't accept it, you can use the Earth 911 database to check for the closest recycling center in your area. You can also recycle plastic Tupperware for free through programs like Rubbermaid's Food Storage Recycling Program in partnership with TerraCycle, which accepts all brands of food storage containers.
It's important to make sure that all items are rinsed and clean before going into the recycling bin. Also, keep in mind that Tupperware has a lifetime warranty, so you might be able to replace your containers for free instead of throwing them away.
