The 7 Things You're Tossing in the Recycling Bin That Don't Belong There

Many common takeout and food-service items do not belong in household recycling, especially if they’re greasy, soiled, or made of black plastic.

Problem items include Styrofoam containers, plastic bags, plastic utensils, paper plates, and pizza boxes with grease.

Putting them in the bin can contaminate recyclable material, jam sorting facilities, and send entire truckloads to landfill.

Check local rules with your sanitation department or hauler before recycling food packaging.