Omaha Recycling Guide
Plastic Food Storage Containers
Some Restrictions Apply
ACCEPTED: Empty, Clean Plastics #1, #2, #3, or #5
Place EMPTY, rigid-plastic food storage containers in a curbside recycling cart or drop-off site container.
- Rinse to remove all food contents
- Labels and plastic lids can stay on
- Keep items loose and do not bag
NOT ACCEPTED: Plastics #4, #6, #7, or Unmarked Plastics
DO NOT place food storage containers made from plastics #4, #6, #7, unmarked plastics, or glass in a City of Omaha curbside recycling cart or drop-off site container. Place these types of containers in the garbage if you cannot use an alternative option.
Where Else Could It Go?
EMPTY and CLEAN plastic food containers, cups, and other serveware made from #4, #6, #7, or unmarked plastics can be placed in an orange Hefty® EnergyBag®.
FirstStar Recycling offers a special program to collect hard-to-recycle plastics in our community. To participate, you can purchase orange Hefty® EnergyBags®, which will be collected through your existing curbside and drop-off site services. When filled with accepted materials and tied shut, the bright orange Hefty® EnergyBag® is the ONLY bag that can be placed in a curbside recycling cart or drop-off site container. Learn more about the local Hefty® EnergyBag® program:
Ways to Reduce or Reuse
Reduce the number of single-use or limited-use plastics in your kitchen by switching to glass or stainless steel food storage containers.
Consider donating reusable food storage containers that are in good condition to a local charity, community center, or thrift store. Tip: Sanitize or wash containers and lids before donating.