Recycle Code #2 (HDPE)
Recycle Code #2 (HDPE)
The recycling identification number for HDPE plastic, found on the bottom of containers inside the triangular arrow symbol.
Recycle Code #2 identifies a container as made from High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). This number appears inside the triangular recycling arrows (chasing arrows symbol) molded into the bottom of plastic containers. HDPE (#2) is one of the most widely recycled plastics and is accepted by most municipal recycling programs. When shopping for food-safe buckets, looking for the #2 recycling code is a quick way to confirm the container is HDPE, though food-grade certification requires additional FDA compliance beyond just the resin type.