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.