Plastic Wrap Put in Garbage Never Recycle With Plastic Bags Cling wrap cannot be recycled with other plastic films because it is a complex plastic made with chemicals that are difficult to remove during recycling. Ways to Reduce Use Reusable Containers Instead Whenever possible, use reusable containers instead of wrapping food in plastic wrap. Invest in Reusable Lids If you like to cover bowls when storing food, invest in reusable lids made from silicone, beeswax or cotton. Ask for Butcher Paper at the Deli Even though major brands have discontinued using PVC in their plastic wrap, grocery stores may still use PVC plastic wrap for their deli packaging. Because PVC contains harmful chemicals, ask for butcher or freezer paper instead of plastic wrap. Did You Know? What's in Your Plastic Wrap? Many companies — though not all — have stopped making their plastic wrap from PVC (plastic #3), and have instead switched to LDPE (plastic #4). This is because PVC contains toxic plasticizers such as DEHA, which can transfer into food it touches.