Common on-pack material-code formMetal packaging code
FE 40 recycling code — steel packaging
FE 40 identifies steel-based packaging, including tinplate packaging.
FE 40European packaging material identification system
At a glance
What this symbol means
FE 40 identifies steel-based packaging, including tinplate packaging.
Read the number and abbreviation as the material identifier. The surrounding triangle can vary between labels and does not itself prove local recyclability.
Recognition
How to recognise it
- Look for FE 40 on the can, lid or packaging label.
- A magnet often attracts steel packaging, but coatings and component design mean the printed code is better evidence.
Typical applications
Where it commonly appears
- food and pet-food cans
- steel aerosol cans
- metal lids and closures
Practical decision
How to sort or dispose of it
- Use the local metal or mixed-packaging stream when the empty container is accepted.
- Aerosols must follow local rules and should not be punctured or crushed.
- Use hazardous-waste routes for containers with dangerous residues when required.
Before disposal or return
- Empty food cans and remove significant residue.
- Leave aerosol cans intact.
- Separate easy-to-remove plastic accessories when instructed.
Avoid contamination
Common mistakes
Confusing steel with aluminium by appearance alone.
Puncturing an aerosol can.
Putting a partly full paint or chemical can into ordinary metal recycling.
Important limitation
What it does not mean
The code identifies the main material of the coded component. It does not prove local recyclability, cleanliness, recycled content or acceptance of a complete multi-component package.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Is FE 40 always magnetic?
Steel usually is, but the printed mark and local guidance are more reliable than a home magnet test.
Can aerosol cans be recycled?
Many services accept empty aerosols, but never puncture them and check exclusions for hazardous contents.
Does tinplate mean tin only?
No. Tinplate is mainly steel with a thin tin coating.
Direct answer
Open the matching question guide
Verification
Sources
EU Decision 97/129/EC — Packaging material identification systemOpen source ↗Regulation (EU) 2025/40 — Packaging and packaging wasteOpen source ↗
Sources checked 15 August 2026
Continue identifying
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