PCR (post-consumer recycled content)

PCR (post-consumer recycled) material is recovered from packaging and products that consumers have used and discarded, then collected, sorted and recycled. "Contains 30% PCR" means roughly a third of the plastic by weight comes from this source.

PCR vs PIR

PIR (post-industrial recycled) comes from factory scrap such as edge trim and rejected reels. It is cleaner and more controlled, while PCR is generally seen as closing the loop on real waste. Claims should state which one is meant.

Food contact limits

Using recycled plastic in direct food contact is tightly regulated, because post-consumer waste may contain substances unsuitable for food contact. Mechanically recycled plastic can only be used when it comes from processes assessed and approved for that purpose. These are well established for bottle-grade PET but more limited for flexible PE and PP. Food packs therefore usually place PCR in non-contact layers, use food-grade recycled PET, or use chemically recycled content allocated via mass balance. See food contact compliance.

Practical notes

Higher PCR levels can bring slight tint, gels, odour or variable mechanical properties, which show most on clear films. Support any recycled-content claim with supplier documentation, and pair PCR with recyclable design so today's pack becomes tomorrow's feedstock.