Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR)
Also called: PCR, post-consumer resin, post-consumer waste
Post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic is made from products that were used by consumers and then collected, sorted and reprocessed.
Post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic is recycled from products that reached the end user and were discarded after use, such as bottles, containers, bags, crates and household items. It is collected from households, businesses and waste streams, then sorted, washed and reprocessed into flakes, regrind or granules.
Why it matters when buying recycled plastic
- PCR material is more variable than post-industrial scrap, because it comes from many products, grades and colours.
- It needs more cleaning, so check odour, residues and contamination closely.
- Brand owners and producers often seek PCR content to meet recycled-content goals and obligations under EPR; ask suppliers what documentation they can provide on origin.
- For food-contact uses, recycled material generally needs specific processing and regulatory approval; do not assume PCR is suitable.
Common PCR streams
PET bottles, HDPE bottles and containers, PP household items, LDPE film and bags, and mixed rigid plastics. Compare with post-industrial scrap.
Ask for clear details of the collection source, sorting and washing steps, and test samples from several lots to understand the normal range of variation.