A TikTok binman has clarified how to dispose of prepackaged sandwich packaging from meal deals, advising that the plastic window should go in general waste rather than recycling.
Known as the "UK's no.1 BINfluencer," the social media user shared the guidance in a clip while on his lunch break, going through the recycling of a typical meal deal lunch.
Plastic window goes in general waste
Pre-packaged sandwiches usually come in cardboard boxes with a transparent plastic window. The binman explained that this plastic section should not be placed in recycling; it belongs in the general waste bin.
He added: "If the cardboard is still clean, you can put that in your cardboard recycling bin. If you can't get it clean because it's full of sandwich or whatever filling you may have, then it would have to go in your general waste."
"Any crust leftover or food, then put it in your food waste bin. It's quite simple, really. But if you can't separate the two parts of the sandwich packaging, then it just goes in your general waste."
Other meal deal items and council checks
For other meal deal items, the binman said pre-packaged biscuits or chocolate bars should go in general waste, as should crisp packets, though some supermarkets offer recycling stations for that packaging.
Beverages like fizzy drinks belong in the plastic bin, and empty cans should also be placed there.
It is important to verify these guidelines with your local council, as rules can differ across the country.
Polystyrene advice
In an earlier video, the binman offered guidance on polystyrene, saying: "Polystyrene, my favourite. Make sure to put it in your general waste bin, because so many people get confused and put it in the plastic bin."
"Easy mistake to make, they're both made of plastic, but for most places it's just not worth recycling because it's made of mainly air. So they say, put it in the general waste bin."
He also warned against putting polystyrene in the paper bin, saying: "Some people, for some reason, like to put it in the paper bin. I know it comes with paper in a box, but still, do not ever put it in your paper bin."
Again, it is vital to confirm these guidelines with your local council, as they may operate different regulations.
