Plastic packaging remains essential in the food industry due to its durability, flexibility, clarity, and ability to protect food from contamination. However, not all plastics are the same. Choosing the wrong type can affect food safety, shelf life, recyclability, and regulatory compliance. This guide explains the most common plastics used in food packaging, what they are best suited for, and what food businesses should consider when selecting plastic packaging.
What Are Plastic Resin Identification Codes?
You may have noticed numbers from 1 to 7 on plastic packaging. These are Resin Identification Codes (RICs), used to identify the type of plastic resin.
While these codes help with recycling, they also provide useful insight into performance characteristics and typical food applications.
Common Plastics Used in Food Packaging
PET / PETE (Resin Code #1)
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is a lightweight, clear, and strong plastic with good barrier properties.
Common uses:
- Beverage bottles
- Sauce and dressing containers
- Clear food packaging and tubs
Why it's used:
- Excellent clarity for product visibility
- Good oxygen and moisture barrier
- Widely recyclable
Food contact safety:
FDA-approved for food contact.
HDPE (Resin Code #2)
High-Density Polyethylene is a rigid, opaque plastic known for strength and chemical resistance.
Common uses:
- Milk and juice bottles
- Food containers and jugs
- Caps and closures
Why it's used:
- Strong and impact-resistant
- Good moisture barrier
- Widely accepted in recycling programmes
Food contact safety:
FDA-approved for food contact.
PVC (Resin Code #3)
Polyvinyl Chloride is a versatile plastic with good clarity and resistance to fats and oils.
Common uses:
- Cling films and shrink wraps
- Blister packaging
Key considerations:
- Less commonly recycled
- Requires careful formulation for food contact applications
Food contact safety:
Approved for specific food contact uses.
LDPE (Resin Code #4)
Low-Density Polyethylene is a flexible plastic commonly used in film applications.
Common uses:
- Bread bags
- Frozen food packaging
- Flexible films
Why it's used:
- Flexible and heat-sealable
- Good moisture resistance
- Suitable for cold storage
Food contact safety:
FDA-approved for food contact.
PP (Resin Code #5)
Polypropylene is a strong plastic with a high melting point.
Common uses:
- Microwaveable food containers
- Yogurt and dairy tubs
- Ready-meal packaging
Why it's used:
- Heat-resistant and durable
- Suitable for reheating and dishwashing
- Good chemical resistance
Food contact safety:
FDA-approved for food contact.
PS (Resin Code #6)
Polystyrene can be rigid or foamed, offering lightweight structure.
Common uses:
- Disposable cups and trays
- Bakery and deli containers
Key considerations:
- Lightweight but brittle
- Recycling availability varies by region
Food contact safety:
Approved for food contact.
Other Plastics (Resin Code #7)
This category includes mixed plastics and specialty materials such as bioplastics (PLA).
Common uses:
- Specialty food containers
- Compostable or bio-based packaging
Key considerations:
- Performance varies widely
- Recycling and composting depend on local infrastructure
Key Factors When Choosing Plastic Food Packaging
When selecting plastic packaging, consider:
- Food contact safety and regulatory compliance
- Temperature exposure (freezing, reheating, microwaving)
- Moisture and oxygen barrier requirements
- Product visibility and presentation
- Recycling and sustainability goals
There is no universally "best" plastic—only the most suitable option for your application.
Plastic Packaging and Sustainability
Plastic packaging is often criticised, but when designed correctly, it can reduce food waste and improve shelf life. In many cases, preventing food waste has a greater environmental impact than eliminating plastic entirely.
The key is responsible material selection, realistic end-of-life planning, and proper disposal education.
Our Practical Approach to Plastic Packaging
At Asia Pacific Reach, we help businesses select plastic packaging based on real operational needs—not assumptions or trends.
We consider:
- Product characteristics
- Usage environment
- Regulatory requirements
- Sustainability trade-offs