Understanding the symbols on plastic products

Plastic products have become an indispensable part of our daily lives, with a variety of applications ranging from packaging materials to household appliances. On the bottom of plastic products are often printed with many different symbols, but not everyone understands the meaning and effect of those symbols. Through this article, CPI Plastic Vietnam will decode the meaning of symbols on plastic products to understand and use plastic products properly, protecting the health of your family.

I. Common types of symbols on plastic products

Symbols printed on plastic products are intended to provide useful information to help consumers use them properly and ensure safety.

There are 3 common types of symbols including:

• Recycling symbol.
• Resin identification code.
• Safety symbols and instructions for use.

II. Meaning of recycling symbol

Recycling symbols are important in waste management. They provide information on recyclability, responsibility and compostability.

1. Recycling symbol

The most common symbol that people refer to as the “recycle symbol” is precisely called the “mobius loop”. It consists of three arrows forming a triangle; indicates that the product or packaging is recyclable. However, that does not guarantee that it will be accepted for recycling in every area. The Mobius Loop serves as a reminder to consumers to check their local recycling guidelines before disposing of that product.

2. “Green dot” icon

This symbol does not mean that the product is recyclable. Instead, it signifies that the manufacturer has made a financial contribution to the recycling program. The Green Dot symbol is mainly used in Europe and serves as a reminder of manufacturers’ responsibility to manage the waste generated by their products.

3. “Compostable” symbol

The compostable symbol has gradually become popular around the world in recent years thanks to advances in the development of biodegradable plastics. It represents compostable products that contribute to the organic waste stream. This symbol ensures that compostable items are disposed of properly, and do not harm the environment.

4. “Biodegradable” symbol

The biodegradable symbol represents that a product is capable of breaking down naturally and returning to the environment without causing harm. It serves as a clear signal that the item is designed with sustainability in mind, reducing the overall impact on the planet. By incorporating the biodegradable symbol on packaging and products, businesses can communicate their commitment to eco-friendly practices and help consumers make informed decisions when selecting goods. Ultimately, the biodegradable symbol plays a crucial role in promoting a more sustainable future by encouraging the use of products that are less harmful to the environment.

5. “Bio” symbol

The presence of a bio symbol on plastic packaging indicates that the material is made from bio material and can biodegradable or compostable. This symbol is important for consumers to easily identify environmentally-friendly options and make informed choices. It signifies that the product has been designed with sustainability in mind and can be disposed of in a way that minimizes harm to the environment. Properly disposing of biodegradable or compostable plastics helps to reduce waste and support a more circular economy.

III. Resin identification code

The resin identification code (RIC) takes the form of a recycling symbol (3 arrows following a triangle) with a number inside. This symbol does not represent the number of times plastic has been recycled as people mistakenly believe. Instead the designation is used to distinguish different types of plastics based on their properties.

Each number represents the chemical composition of plastic, based on which there are different ways to recycle and handle it. Users can also rely on this symbol to distinguish what plastic the product is made of.

No. 1 – Polyethylene terephthalate

PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) plastic is one of the most common plastics used to produce food and beverage packaging. Pet is used for hard, clear plastic bottles commonly used to package water, soda, and food. This plastic is lightweight, durable and has good gas barrier properties. It is widely recycled and used to produce new bottles and polyester fibers.

To ensure health, users should note:

• PET should not be reused
• Do not use to store water or food at high temperatures above 50°C
• Do not put in the microwave

No. 2 – High-density polyethylene

HDPE (High-density polyethylene), is a hard plastic used to produce hard, opaque plastic boxes. HDPE is commonly used for bottles containing cleaning products, cosmetics, and toiletries; It is also used to make milk bottles, barrels and plastic buckets. The hardness of HDPE makes it ideal for wear-resistant plastic products. HDPE is also resistant to chemicals and has excellent moisture-resistant properties. It is recycled into many different products, including plastic lumber and pipes.

HDPE plastic can withstand temperatures of 110°C and can be microwaved at low power (<800W). When reusing, be careful to clean thoroughly because this type of plastic is difficult to clean and can easily retain residual bacteria that are harmful to health.

No. 3 – Polyvinyl chloride

PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) is commonly used for flexible and rigid plastic products, such as pipes, vinyl flooring, and window frames. PVC has good chemical resistance but is not easily recycled. It is commonly used in the construction and automotive industries.

PVC plastic is a cheap plastic that contains toxic additives that affect health. Therefore, it is necessary to note:

• Do not use to wrap food.
• Do not put it in the microwave.
• Do not buy your baby toys made from PVC.

No. 4 – Low-density polyethylene

LDPE (Low-density polyethylene) is a soft plastic, often used to produce plastic bags, candy wrappers, and cosmetic bottles. LDPE is resistant to moisture and chemicals, making it suitable for packaging applications. LDPE is one of the most commonly recycled plastics.

Note: Do not put LDPE plastic in the microwave because it easily melts and is harmful to health.

No. 5 – Polypropylene

PP (Polypropylene) has many applications in life, used for hard and flexible plastic products, including food containers, auto parts, and packaging materials. PP has excellent heat resistance and is often recycled into battery housings, signal lights and fibers.

PP plastic is a safe, odorless plastic that can be used to store food in the refrigerator. PP plastic can withstand heat up to 170°C so it can be used in microwaves.

No. 6 – Polystyrene

PS (Polystyrene) is a type of plastic that is easy to process and color. PS plastic is often used to produce foam food containers, plastic cups, plastic bowls, and disposable candy trays. In addition, PS plastic is also used to produce electronic devices such as sockets, switches or CDs.

PS  is easily deformed and produces toxic substances if exposed to temperatures above 80°C. Therefore, do not use PS plastic to store boiling water, hot food or roast in the microwave. In addition, do not use to store items containing strong acids or strong alkalis. Therefore, this type of plastic is not allowed to be used for long-term storage of food and drinks.

No. 7 – Other

Number 7 includes the remaining plastics, the most common of which are Polycacbonate and Tritan.

+ PC plastic is often used to produce water bottles, milk bottles, and food containers. This type of plastic contains carcinogenic BPA, but BPA is safe at the allowable level.

+ Tritan plastic is as transparent as glass, hard to break when dropped, ensuring health safety for users, often used as water bottles, food containers, water glasses,…

When using plastic products number 7, you should choose products with the words BPA free printed on them – ensuring safety and not containing carcinogens.

IV. Safety symbols and instructions for use

In addition to numerical symbols to distinguish types of plastic, plastic products are often printed with other symbols to help ensure safe use and health protection:

Safety symbols on plastic products play an important role in protecting consumers. These symbols provide important information about potential hazards associated with the product, providing a visual reminder of precautions to take when using the product.

• Microwave symbol (Microwave Safe text): can be used in microwave ovens.
• Cup and plate symbols: safe to hold food.
• Snowflake symbol: can be used in the freezer.
• BPA free: Does not contain BPA – a carcinogen.
• Dishwasher symbol: can be used in the dishwasher.