Plastic Cutlery – what to do with it all ?

[MikeJaquish]

Originally Posted by robin3904

Along those lines, I have a similar question about what to do with all those plastic containers that things like soups and curries are typically packed in. I reuse them all the time, but at this point my reusable plastic takeout container collection is taking up most of a cabinet. I've had some of these containers for years and put them through the dishwasher numerous times. They never die.

Recycle them.
And, they aren't designed for reuse, but for one-time use. They leach...

[robin3904]

Originally Posted by MikeJaquish

Recycle them.
And, they aren't designed for reuse, but for one-time use. They leach...

Sorry, I should've been more specific. I'm talking about the #5 plastic containers, which from what I've read are pretty inert and safe for reuse. #5 plastics are also not easily recyclable, even though they are accepted in recycling bins. I use them for cold food storage and never put them in the microwave.

[Shallow Hal]

Not sure what food pantry is near you but I always include my plastic wrapped utensils in my food donations. Again, if wrapped in plastic I would bet homeless shelters would take them.

[Jkgourmet]

Food banks typically don't accept used food, used products or items not wrapped in factory packaging. I'm afraid y'all might be transferring the trash problem to them. If they are still sealed, its a good way to make them useful. Once. Then they are going in the garbage.

https://foodbankcenc.org/ways-to-give/donate-food/

Due to food safety regulations, we ask that you do not donate food items that are unsealed, loose items without ingredients listed, glass containers, or loose glass or plastic jars of baby food. These items must be discarded.

[Corgi Dad]

Well, there's this from food bank:
The Food Bank welcomes factory-sealed non-perishable products and beverages, refrigerated or frozen items and produce, as well as non-food essentials such as hygiene items, cleaning items or paper products.

[Corgi Dad]

I just had an idea that might help. When you go to an eat-in place that serves food with plastic cutlery, take you own from your stash and have the server keep those at the restaurant.

[pierretong1991]

Originally Posted by Corgi Dad

I just had an idea that might help. When you go to an eat-in place that serves food with plastic cutlery, take you own from your stash and have the server keep those at the restaurant.

I pretty much do the same thing with straws now. Either I'll just drink from the cup or I've got some straws that I keep in the car that are reusable.

[Tigeru]

There’s a donation center taking peoples unused toilet paper they might have use for plastic forks.

[NRaleigh Mom]

You could make some care packages for the homeless to hand out. I've also seen people on Nextdoor and Facebook asking for care package donations. Maybe one of these people would be willing to take them all.