dcwcreations / Shutterstock.com Juice Boxes Recycling dcwcreations / Shutterstock.com Juice boxes are categorized as aseptic containers. Athens has identified specialized recycling markets for these mixed-content products. Although not 100% paper, recyclers are interested in the long grain paper fibers within the product. However, recycling options are limited for aseptic containers. For a more recyclable option, consider juice containers made from #2 plastic. The straw and wrapper are too small to be recycled and should be placed in the trash. Empty Before Recycling Leftover food residue can contaminate the recycling stream, so completely empty out juice boxes before placing them in recycling. Take Out the Straws Items cannot be recycled when nested inside each other, so take straws out of juice boxes. Find out how to dispose of straws. Ways to Reduce Buy in Bulk Buying individually sized juice boxes creates more waste than purchasing juice in bulk. Consider purchasing a small reusable water bottle or thermos that you can refill instead of buying disposable juice boxes. Did You Know? Sorting Out Juice Cartons What Do Cartons Become? In places that are able to process them for recycling, the paper from cartons are recycled into paper products such as paper towels, tissues and office papers. The plastic and aluminum can be burned for energy or turned into ceiling tiles and synthetic lumber board materials.