Are All Plastic Buckets Food-Grade?

The most straightforward way to identify food-safe plastic is by examining the markings on the bucket or container. Plastic containers, including buckets, often display a recycling code—a number inside the recycling arrow triangle—which specifies the type of plastic material used.

For example:

• Polypropylene (PP): Denoted by the number “5” within the recycling triangle, polypropylene is a strong plastic material, highly resistant to heat and chemical reactions, making it suitable for hot filling. Its structural integrity and resilience against cracking and stress make it a preferred choice for food storage.
• Polyethylene (PE): Marked with the number “2” (for high-density polyethylene) or “4” (for low-density polyethylene), this type of plastic is often used for lids and containers that need flexibility for repeated use. Both variants are safe for food applications and exhibit a high melting point, making them suitable for hot contents.

The food-safe symbol, often represented by a wine glass and fork, can be an indicator that the plastic is certified for food contact. However, it’s always advisable to verify with certification for extra assurance.