Plastic food containers are essential in modern kitchens and food industries, but the symbols printed on their bottoms often confuse users. These markings are not just for decoration—they communicate valuable information about the plastic type, recycling compatibility, temperature limits, and food safety standards. Understanding these symbols helps consumers choose the right containers and promotes safer, more sustainable use of plastics.
The most common symbols on plastic containers are the numbers 1 to 7 enclosed in a triangle made of arrows. These codes identify the type of resin used in the product. Each number corresponds to specific characteristics and usage recommendations.
| Code | Abbreviation | Material Name | Common Uses | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PET or PETE | Polyethylene Terephthalate | Beverage bottles, salad dressing containers | Lightweight, transparent, single-use |
| 2 | HDPE | High-Density Polyethylene | Milk jugs, detergent bottles | Durable, resistant to chemicals |
| 3 | PVC | Polyvinyl Chloride | Plastic wrap, cooking oil bottles | Not suitable for heating or microwaving |
| 4 | LDPE | Low-Density Polyethylene | Food bags, squeezable bottles | Flexible, moisture-resistant |
| 5 | PP | Polypropylene | Yogurt cups, food storage boxes | Microwave-safe, heat-resistant |
| 6 | PS | Polystyrene | disposable cups, plates, cutlery | Brittle, not recommended for hot food |
| 7 | Other | Mixed or specialty plastics (PC, PLA, etc.) | Reusable bottles, baby feeding items | Check label for BPA-free marking |
Among them, polypropylene (PP) marked with “5” is often the safest choice for reusable food storage, as it resists high temperatures and is less likely to leach chemicals when heated.
Apart from the recycling code, plastic containers often feature symbols that show whether the product is safe for direct food contact or heating. Recognizing these icons ensures the product is used in the right way.
Fork and Cup Symbol: Indicates the material is safe for food contact and compliant with international food-grade standards. Containers with this mark can store dry or wet food without contamination.
Snowflake Symbol: Represents freezer-safe material. It shows that the plastic remains stable and does not crack under low temperatures.
Microwave Symbol: Usually a microwave oven icon or wavy lines, meaning the container is safe for microwave reheating. However, only those marked PP (5) should be used repeatedly under high heat.
Dishwasher Symbol: Denotes that the container can withstand cleaning in dishwashers without warping or losing transparency.
Temperature Range: Some products specify safe temperature limits, for instance, “-20°C to 120°C.” This helps users identify if a container is suitable for both freezing and reheating.
Understanding these safety marks is crucial for preventing deformation or contamination of stored food.
The symbols on containers also guide users on recycling practices. The Mobius Loop (three chasing arrows) symbolizes that the item can be recycled, while the number within it indicates the specific recycling category. Some containers may also include:
Green Dot (two intertwined arrows): Indicates the manufacturer contributes to recycling efforts in certain regions.
Compostable Mark (leaf or seedling icon): Found on biodegradable plastics like PLA; these should go into composting facilities rather than standard recycling bins.
Recycling Instructions: Some labels include “Check locally” or “Widely recycled” to encourage correct disposal.
Consumers can help reduce plastic waste by sorting containers according to their resin codes and avoiding mixing incompatible types. Industrial manufacturers, such as LVHUI, play a vital role in this sustainability chain by developing recyclable and food-safe plastic products with clear labeling for easy identification.
At LVHUI, innovation meets safety in every stage of plastic container production. The company specializes in developing eco-friendly, high-quality plastic products that comply with FDA, LFGB, and EU standards. By focusing on the materials behind each symbol, LVHUI ensures that every food container offers:
Non-toxic, BPA-free materials suitable for direct food contact.
Heat- and cold-resistant plastics like PP and HDPE, ensuring durability from freezer to microwave.
Recyclable and sustainable designs that support circular economy goals.
Custom molding and branding services to help B2B clients meet market-specific packaging needs.
With advanced injection molding and quality testing systems, LVHUI helps global buyers choose the right materials according to the product symbol—making it easier to align safety, branding, and environmental goals in one solution.
To make the most of your plastic food containers and ensure safety in daily use, keep these recommendations in mind:
Check the recycling code before heating or freezing. Only containers with “5 PP” are suitable for both.
Avoid high-fat or acidic foods in non-PP plastics, as they may accelerate chemical leaching.
Replace old or scratched containers—surface damage can harbor bacteria and degrade material integrity.
Follow cleaning guidelines on the symbol: some plastics deform in dishwashers, especially under high heat.
Support recyclable packaging by choosing products from responsible manufacturers that use standardized markings.
Understanding and following these details not only promotes health and safety but also supports a cleaner environment.
The symbols printed on plastic food containers hold more meaning than most users realize—they reveal the material composition, usage limitations, and recycling instructions that ensure safe and sustainable handling. By recognizing the resin codes, food contact symbols, and recycling marks, consumers can make smarter decisions in their kitchens. For those seeking durable, food-grade plastic solutions with clear labeling and compliance with global standards, LVHUI provides dependable products designed for both performance and environmental responsibility.
