Progress Over Perfection
In today’s sustainability-driven market, we must ask: Are we chasing perfection, or are we pursuing progress?
At Priority Plastics, we’re proudly committed to progress. Our GreenLite Sustainable Packaging can be made with post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic, which might look a little different — and that’s a GOOD thing.
What Discoloration Means in PCR Packaging
You might notice a soft gray or off-white tint in PCR containers. That’s not a defect; it’s a visible sign of circular economy principles in action.
Recycled HDPE or PETE, naturally introduce some color variation. Instead of hiding it, we embrace it. Each shade tells a story of:
- Fewer landfills
- Reduced reliance on virgin plastics
- More accountability
🔒 Safety First: Food-Contact Compliance
We understand that safety is essential — especially for the food, nutraceutical, and personal care industries. That’s why the PCR used in our GreenLite packaging:
- Meets or exceeds FDA recommendations for food-contact safety
- Undergoes rigorous chemical contaminants testing
- Complies with migration thresholds and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
We work with supply chain partners who adhere to validated decontamination processes and proper source controls. (reference)
✅ Quality Without Compromise
Our customers expect premium quality — and we deliver. While recycled content may introduce some color variability, the structural performance, barrier properties, and durability of our PCR-based packaging matches those of traditional virgin plastic.
Each batch is tested for compliance and performance to achieve the ideal balance of visual appeal and sustainability.
🤝 What It Means for Your Brand
Your customers care about sustainability. GreenLite help you reflect those values. That visible hint of gray? It tells a story of accountability, resourcefulness, and leadership.
Join us in changing the narrative.
🟢 Choose recycled.
🟢 Choose visible sustainability.
🟢 Choose GreenLite.
PCR Isn’t Perfect. It’s BETTER.
FAQ: PCR in Sustainable Packaging (PETE and HDPE)
Q: What is PCR and why is it important?
A: PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) plastic is made from materials used and recycled by consumers. Using PCR diverts waste from landfills and conserves raw materials.
Q: How does PCR compare to virgin plastic?
A: Virgin plastic is made from newly extracted fossil fuels. PCR plastic is made from post-use materials collected and processed through a recycling system. PCR offers comparable performance with less environmental impact.
Q: Is PCR safe for food-contact packaging?
A: Yes. At Priority Plastics, all PCR used in food-contact applications is sourced from FDA-reviewed suppliers and tested for chemical safety and contaminant migration.
Q: Why does PCR packaging sometimes look gray or off-white?
A: The discoloration is due to color variations in the recycled material feedstock. It’s a visible reminder of sustainability in action — not a defect.
Q: Are there differences in color variation between PETE and HDPE?
A: Yes. PETE tends to show more visible tinting at higher PCR levels. HDPE is slightly more forgiving and maintains a lighter color profile.
Q: Can PCR packaging match high quality and performance standards?
A: Absolutely. If necessary, PCR suppliers blend with virgin resin to ensure consistent structure, performance, and barrier integrity — all without compromising sustainability.
Q: What are your PCR usage rates?
A: Our GreenLite PETE products use 25–50% PCR (up to 100% in testing). HDPE thin wall canisters are available up to 100% PCR and heavy-wall tight head containers are available in 30% PCR.
Q: What if our brand wants a cleaner color look?
A: We can offer both virgin-only or blended options. Colorants are also available. However packaging with visible PCR usage shows your brand’s authentic sustainability commitment.
Q: How do I explain PCR to my stakeholders?
A: Check out the Association for Plastics Recyclers. They are a great resource to learn more and offer several resources. Reach out our Director of Sustainability [email protected] for more information.