Recycled aluminium foil for catering: evidence, performance and disposal

Recycled-content aluminium foil can be an option for caterers, but judge the exact product by its specification and supporting evidence. Recycled content, recyclability and suitability for food contact are separate questions.

What does recycled content tell you?

A recycled-content percentage describes how much recovered material went into a product. It does not by itself show whether your local waste collector will accept the used foil, or prove a particular carbon saving for that product.

Ask the supplier for the percentage, calculation basis and evidence covering the exact foil supplied. Avoid repeating broad energy or carbon figures as if they were a verified life-cycle result for your kitchen's purchase.

PlanetWrap's current position: no recycled-content percentage has been verified for publication. We therefore do not describe PlanetWrap catering foil as recycled or 100% recycled.

Compare catering foil specifications

PlanetWrap's listed foil is 44.5cm wide, 90m long and 17 micron thick, with three rolls per box.

• Check that the width covers your actual trays with the overlap needed.
• Trial the thickness for your intended wrapping, covering or cooking job.
• Confirm the food types, temperatures and contact conditions permitted by the supplier.
• Check dispenser fit; compatibility testing with Wrapmaster 4500 and Prowrap is in progress.

A longer roll can reduce the number of changes at equivalent usage. Better value still depends on price per metre, width, thickness and waste.

Recycling used foil

Clean foil may be accepted in your metal recycling stream. Remove food residue and follow your waste collector's preparation instructions. Heavily contaminated foil may need general-waste disposal.

Recycled-content foil is not automatically recyclable in every collection, and foil made from new aluminium may also be recyclable. Keep those two claims separate.

Frequently asked questions

Is recycled-content foil automatically food safe?

No label replaces the applicable food-contact documentation. Ask for the intended-use limits and supporting compliance information for the exact product.

Is foil suitable for acidic or very salty foods?

Check the product guidance. Prolonged contact with some foods can cause a reaction; a suitable lidded container may be a better choice.

Can I claim a fixed carbon saving?

Only with evidence that supports the scope and comparison you are making. Do not assume a general industry figure applies to an individual product.

See PlanetWrap foil specifications, check the evidence status or request a trade quote.