PET is fully recyclable (code 1) and should be placed in any recycling bin where it will be captured and reprocessed. Once collected, PET is recycled and reprocessed to manufacture RPET and extending the lifespan of the material.
PLA-bioplastics are normally certified to EU Regulation EN13432. This means that the product/material will decompose into natural products given the correct exposure to heat, light, moisture and oxygen.
Polypropylene is a widely used material in foodservice packaging. It is a flexible plastic which means it does not break easily and will not splinter. Polypropylene is widely recycled (code 5).
Products made from RPET are recyclable and have the same quality as virgin PET products. RPET products with 30% or more recycled content will be exempt from UK Plastic Packaging Tax introduced in April 2022.
Historically, Polystyrene was a widely used material in foodservice packaging.
As the packaging sector moves to a more circular model, polystyrene has limited use in the sector. The legislation will result in the elimination of PS cutlery which was the main material for single-use cutlery.
PS is brittle and will break and shard easily however it provides excellent clarity.
PS is not widely recycled.
Plastic Food Packaging
Plastic remains one of the most widely used materials in food packaging due to its strength, flexibility, and protective properties. While traditional plastics face sustainability challenges, advances such as rPET and PLA have made it possible to balance practicality with environmental responsibility.
In recent years, the UK has introduced a ban on single-use plastics and introduced new taxes and tariffs to discourage the use of plastic packaging and encourage the use of sustainable alternatives. Our plastic packaging range includes PET, rPET, PP, PLA, and PS. Each material has distinct benefits, applications, and sustainability profiles, making them suitable for different types of food and drink businesses.
PET Plastic
PET plastic is a clear, lightweight, and strong plastic widely used for food and drink packaging. It offers excellent transparency, making it ideal for displaying food products.
Key Benefits of PET Plastic Food Packaging
- 100% recyclable
- Lightweight yet durable
- Maintains food freshness with excellent barrier properties
- Versatile for rigid and flexible packaging formats
Best Uses for PET Plastic Food Packaging
- Cold drink bottles
- Salad containers
- Bakery packaging
- Clear lids and trays
Sustainability & Disposal of PET Plastic Food Packaging
- Fully recyclable in most kerbside collection schemes
- Commonly reprocessed into rPET, extending its lifecycle
Limitations & Solutions of PET Plastic Food Packaging
- Not compostable
- Recycling effectiveness depends on local infrastructure
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rPET Plastic
rPET is made from recycled PET, offering the same quality as virgin PET but with a significantly lower environmental footprint.
Key Benefits of rPET Food Packaging
- Same clarity and strength as virgin PET
- Reduces demand for virgin plastic
- Exempt from UK Plastic Packaging Tax if it contains 30%+ recycled content
Best Uses for rPET for Food Packaging
- Drink bottles
- Bakery containers
- Clear trays and lids
Sustainability & Disposal of rPET Food Packaging
- Fully recyclable again at end of life
- Supports a circular packaging economy
Limitations & Solutions of rPET Food Packaging
- Dependent on recycling availability and consumer behaviour
PLA Bioplastic
PLA Bioplastic is a plant-based bioplastic typically made from renewable resources such as corn starch. It offers the transparency of plastic but is compostable under industrial conditions.
Key Benefits of PLA Bioplastic Food Packaging
- Compostable under EN13432 certification
- Made from renewable resources
- Transparent and lightweight
- Non-toxic and food-safe
Best Uses for PLA Bioplastic Food Packaging
- Cold drink cups
- Hot cup lids
- Salad containers
- Fresh produce packaging
Sustainability & Disposal of PLA Bioplastic Food Packaging
- Certified to EN13432, decomposing in industrial composting facilities
- Not suitable for home composting or recycling streams
Limitations & Solutions of PLA Bioplastic Food Packaging
- Requires industrial composting; limited facilities in some regions
- Not heat resistant; unsuitable for hot drinks or microwaving
PP Plastic
PP Plastic is a versatile plastic widely used in foodservice packaging thanks to its flexibility, toughness, and resistance to splintering.
Key Benefits of PP Bioplastic Food Packaging
- Lightweight yet strong
- Resistant to chemicals and heat
- Recyclable in many UK schemes
Best Uses for PP Bioplastic Food Packaging
- Microwaveable containers
- Takeaway boxes and trays
- Small portion pots
- Lids and films
Sustainability & Disposal of PP Bioplastic Food Packaging
- Widely recyclable in many UK regions
- Offers durability and reusability
- Reducing single-use waste
Limitations & Solutions of PP Plastic Food Packaging
- Recycling rates for PP are lower than PET
PS Plastic
Polystyrene (PS) plastic was once widely used in food packaging, especially for cutlery and foam containers, but it is now being phased out due to legislation and environmental concerns.
Key Benefits of PS Plastic Food Packaging
- Low cost
- Lightweight
- Excellent clarity
Best Uses of PS Plastic Food Packaging
- Single-use cutlery
- Foam trays
- Hot cup lids
Sustainability & Disposal of PS Plastic Food Packaging
- Not widely recyclable
- Environmental legislation has restricted its use in the UK
Limitations & Solutions of PS PLastic Food Packaging
- Brittle and breaks easily
- Poor environmental profile
Plastic Packaging FAQs
Which type of plastic is the most sustainable?
rPET is currently one of the most sustainable plastics because it reuses existing material and is widely recyclable. PLA, a plant-based bioplastic, is also eco-friendly but requires industrial composting.
What’s the difference between recyclable and compostable plastics?
- Recyclable plastics can be collected, reprocessed, and turned into new packaging
- Compostable plastics are designed to break down in composting facilities
Can plastic packaging be microwaved?
It depends on the type. PP plastic is microwave-safe, while PET and PLA are not suitable for high-heat applications.
Is recycled plastic safe for food packaging?
Yes. rPET is food-grade safe and approved for direct contact with food and drinks.
How can food businesses reduce their plastic footprint?
- Switch to rPET over virgin PET
- Use bioplastics (PLA) for cold applications
- Explore non-plastic alternatives such as bagasse, wood, or paper
- Encourage proper disposal and recycling among customers