Can you recycle plastic food containers (tupperware)?
📍 Check locally
Rigid PP containers recycle where pots-tubs-trays are collected; warped/stained ones included.
Rigid plastic food boxes are usually polypropylene (PP, code 5) — recyclable in councils that take pots, tubs and trays (most, and all English councils under Simpler Recycling). Lids too if rigid. Remove any rubber seals.
Tips
- Old containers organise drawers, screws and seeds before they retire
Which bin does it go in?
Rigid PP containers recycle where pots-tubs-trays are collected; warped/stained ones included. Exact rules depend on your council — check its website or look up your postcode below.
📍 Check the rule for your address
Councils can use different containers and accepted-item lists.
Background: Recycling symbols explained.
Also searched as: food containers, lunch boxes, plastic boxes.
✓ Checked against current UK guidance: 14 Jul 2026. Spot an error or an out-of-date rule?