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Plastic Clamshell Produce Containers Recycling & Disposal

Recyclable (Sometimes):

  • Some recycling programs accept clear plastic clamshell containers made of PET #1 (check for the recycling symbol on the bottom).

  • Must be clean and dry before recycling—remove food residue, stickers, and labels.

  • Check with your local recycling guidelines as many facilities do not accept clamshells due to their brittle nature and contamination risks.

🚫 Not Accepted in Many Curbside Programs:

  • Many facilities do not recycle clamshell containers because their thin, brittle plastic can break easily and contaminate the recycling stream.

  • Colored, black, or compostable plastic clamshells are rarely accepted in regular plastic recycling programs.

Disposal & Alternatives:

  • Check for specialty recycling programs (e.g., TerraCycle or local grocery store drop-offs).

  • Reuse for storage, seed starters, or crafts before disposal.

  • If no recycling options are available, dispose of them in the trash.

Better Alternatives:

  • Buy loose produce instead of pre-packaged items.

  • Bring reusable produce bags to the store to reduce plastic waste.




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