Food and liquid cartons to be collected in recycling bins

Shropshire residents can now recycle even more at home thanks to an improvement to Shropshire Council’s kerbside recycling service.

From Monday 13 April [2026] food and liquid cartons – sometimes called TetraPak – can be recycled in purple-lidded recycling bins, and recycling boxes. This means cartons such as those used for milk, juice and soup can be placed directly into the purple-lidded bin or box alongside existing recyclable items.

David Vasmer, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for waste management, said:

“We’re really pleased to be able to offer residents another simple way to recycle more. Food and drink cartons are widely used items, and being able to put them straight into the purple lidded bin makes recycling easier while helping us reduce waste and protect the environment.

“Residents in Shropshire already do a great job recycling, and this improvement builds on that by giving people more opportunities to make a positive difference every day.”

The following food and drink cartons can be placed in the purple-lidded recycling bin or recycling box:

• Milk cartons, including long‑life milk and plant‑based alternatives such as oat, almond and soya
• Juice and smoothie cartons of all sizes
• Protein shake cartons
• Soup, stock and broth cartons
• Sauce cartons

Residents are reminded to empty cartons and place them loose in the bin or box – not inside bags – to help ensure they can be properly recycled.

Food and drink cartons can also still be recycled at each of Shropshire Council’ five household recycling centres.

Further information

Households can continue to recycle the following in their purple-lidded bins or boxes:

• Plastic bottles, tubs and trays
• Tins and cans
• Glass bottles and jars