Plastic Packaging Symbols: What Do They Mean?

Marking and identification codes for plastic were developed in 1988 by the Plastic Industry Society.

The marking consists of 3 arrows in the shape of a triangle, there’s a number inside it that indicates the type of plastic and the letters below them.

PET (PETE) polyethylene terephtalate.
Transparent bottles and thin packaging for:
- Drinks
- Mineral water
- Fruit juices
- Spice
- Cosmetics
- Vegetable oil
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PEHD or HDPE - High density low pressure polyethylene.
Thick plastic for:
- Canister, bottles for food and non-food liquid
- Bottle for milk, juice
- Garbage bags
- Containers
- Medium hard packs
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PVC - Polyvinyl Chloride.
Thick and relatively firm plastic for:
- Construction purposes (pipes, hoses)
- Elements of goods
- Oilcloths, films
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LDPE or PELD, LDPE - Low density high pressure polyethylene.
Smooth and flexible material for:
- Linoleum
- Tarpaulins
- Garbage bags
- Closures
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PP - Polypropylene.
Heat resistant and firm for:
- Toys
- Car parts
- Baby bottles
- Disposable tableware for hot dishes
- Pipes for water supply system
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PS - Polystyrene.
- Trays for fruits and vegetables
- Thermal insulation
- Expanded material
- CD boxes
- Pens
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OTHER (polycarbonate, polyamide and others).
- Reusable water bottles
- Food Storage Containers
- Toys