Mesh Produce Bags
What Should I Do With It?
Many produce items at the grocery store, including citrus fruits, garlic, and onions, now come pre-packaged in mesh plastic net bags. These bags are typically made from nylon or polypropylene (#5) plastic, which is not accepted in curbside recycling or through other standard local recycling channels. Because they take hundreds of years to decompose and pose a major entanglement hazard for wildlife if they enter the environment, it is best to avoid purchasing these pre-packaged options whenever possible. When you do end up with them, the best way to handle these bags is to save them for creative craft projects, repurpose them for home reuse, or donate them to local schools and community centers that can use them for art programs.
Before throwing this away, see if it can be fixed up, given to a friend, or donated to a local thrift shop. Keeping items in use is the best way to stop waste before it starts!
The recycling guidelines shown here are for general reference and educational purposes. Every city and town has different rules, sorting equipment, and recycling programs.
Please check your local town website or ask your local garbage collection program to make sure you are following your neighborhood's rules.