For plastic recycling in particular, the plastic identification code (three chasing arrows with the number 1 to 7) informs consumers and the sorting facility what kind of plastic it is made out of ...

By embedding a microscopic change in a pattern of pixels—called an invisible bar code—on the label, software can instantly identify the package so it can be sorted and recycled correctly.

Plastic recycling code no. 5 – PP Polypropylene (PP) is the “microwave-safe” type of plastic such as Tupperwares, kitchenwares, prescription bottles and takeout containers.

Reusing plastic bottles with codes #1 and #2 is probably fine to do on occasion, provided you take certain precautions.

Plastic Code 6: Polystryene Brittle, hard plastics — including yogurt containers, egg boxes, fast food trays, video cases, disposable cutlery, vending cups and coat hangers.

What the secret code on your plastic packaging means It’s a confusing code that doesn’t make much sense to the untrained eye, but the consequences of not knowing what it means could be lethal.

Electronic labels made from plastic semiconductors can now pick up and respond to radio signals at a frequency suitable for use on products.