Can I recycle the foil pet food bags in my curbside bin?

No, foil-lined bags cannot go in curbside recycling because they're multi-layer materials (plastic + aluminum) that recycling equipment cannot separate. Instead, use TerraCycle programs offered by brands like Purina, Blue Buffalo, Wellness, and Rachael Ray Nutrish. Collect bags at home and ship them for free recycling once you have 10-20 bags.

Do I need to remove the labels from pet food cans and containers?

No! Modern recycling facilities can handle labels. The heat during the melting process burns off paper labels, and plastic labels are separated during the sorting process. Focus on cleaning out food residue instead - contamination is a bigger issue than labels.

What should I do with half-full expired pet food containers?

Donate unopened, unexpired food to local animal shelters - they always need supplies. For expired food, check if the food itself is compostable (grain-based dry food can often be composted in municipal programs; meat-based cannot). Once empty, recycle the container. Never recycle containers with significant food inside.

Are pet food containers recyclable even if they held prescription food?

Yes! Prescription pet food containers are the same materials as regular food containers (#2 HDPE, #5 PP, steel/aluminum). Once emptied and cleaned, recycle them normally. The 'prescription' aspect refers to the food formula, not the packaging material.

Can I recycle pet treat containers and supplement bottles?

Absolutely. Plastic treat containers (#2 HDPE, #5 PP) and supplement bottles (usually HDPE) are recyclable in curbside programs. Remove pills/treats, rinse out powder residue, and recycle with other plastics. Glass supplement jars are recyclable with other glass containers.

Pet & Animal Supplies recycling

How to Recycle Pet Food Containers & Bags

Plastic containers, metal cans, and bags used for pet food packaging that can be recycled through curbside programs or specialized TerraCycle partnerships.

Recyclable#2 HDPE, #5 PP (containers), Steel/Aluminum (cans)$0.05-0.15/lb for aluminum cans at scrap yards

Quick answer

Yes, pet food containers & bags is recyclable. First step: Empty all remaining food into sealed containers or trash. Where to take it: Curbside recycling (plastic containers #2, #5 and metal cans).

Recyclable: Yes
Recycling code: #2 HDPE, #5 PP (containers), Steel/Aluminum (cans)
Typical value: $0.05-0.15/lb for aluminum cans at scrap yards

How to Prepare

1Empty all remaining food into sealed containers or trash
2Rinse containers thoroughly to remove food residue and oils

How to Recycle Pet Food Containers & Bags

Quick answer

Sell your car for cash, the easy way

Accepted

Not Accepted

Recycling centers that accept Pet Food Containers & Bags

Ready to Recycle Your Pet Food Containers & Bags?

How to Recycle Pet Food Containers & Bags

Quick answer

Sell your car for cash, the easy way

Accepted

Not Accepted

Recycling centers that accept Pet Food Containers & Bags

🌱 Join 12,000+ Eco-Conscious Recyclers

Ready to Recycle Your Pet Food Containers & Bags?