Egg Carton Recycling FAQ: Pulp, Foam, and Composting

Are molded pulp egg cartons recyclable?

Yes. Molded pulp egg cartons recycle in the standard paper and cardboard stream, which achieves a 65.7% recycling rate — the highest of any packaging material, according to the U.S. EPA. Rinse lightly and place them with your paper recycling.

Can foam egg cartons be recycled?

Rarely. EPS foam egg cartons are recycled at under 5% because the foam is lightweight, bulky, and uneconomical to process. They typically end up in landfill or the environment, which is why retailers and regulators are phasing them out in favor of molded pulp.

Can I compost molded pulp egg cartons at home?

Yes. Molded pulp egg cartons home-compost within 90 days under BPI certification, breaking down into harmless organic material. Tear them into pieces and add to your compost pile as a carbon source. Foam cartons never compost.

Are egg cartons with ink or labels recyclable?

Yes. Water-based and soy-based inks used on modern molded pulp cartons do not prevent recycling, and the repulping process removes them. Avoid cartons with heavy plastic film windows or laminations, which should be separated before recycling.

What is the most sustainable egg carton material?

Molded pulp made from 100% recycled fiber is the most sustainable option: it's recyclable, home-compostable, and made from post-consumer paper. It outperforms clear PET (recyclable but fossil-based) and EPS foam (neither recyclable nor compostable) on every environmental axis.