New research uncovers scale of egg-cess Easter packaging

Brits are expected to get through 123 million eggs this Easter, but more than two thirds (65%) say that Easter eggs are excessively packaged.

In our latest research, which surveyed 2,000 adults across the UK, we found that the average adult will eat 165 chocolate Easter eggs over their lifetime, receiving three chocolate eggs on average each Easter, which contributes to an estimated 8,000 tonnes of packaging each year in the UK. 

But whilst the cardboard boxes Easter eggs come in are widely recycled by Brits (89%), over a third (36%) will throw their egg’s foil in a refuse bin, when it could be recycled, and nearly one in five (17%) won’t recycle the plastic box it comes in.  

Overall, more than a third (34%) are confused about what Easter egg packaging can be recycled. 

The research showed concern amongst Brits about unnecessary packaging at Easter.  Over one in five (22%) choose their egg based on the packaging being fully recyclable, while more than one in four (26%) are left feeling annoyed by the waste accumulated.   

Of those who don’t normally recycle any of the packaging, more than a quarter (26%) say this is because the recycling instructions on the label are unclear, while over two thirds (36%) claim they can’t recycle a particular material in their area. 

However, Brits will continue to enjoy easter eggs despite packaging issues. Nearly two in five (38%) say Easter is one of their favourite holidays purely because of the chocolate .

Samantha Upham added: “It’s lovely to enjoy Easter treats, but the environment doesn’t need to pay the price. Confectionery companies have come a long way to remove unnecessary packaging and make the remaining wrapping recyclable. Simply separating card, plastic and foil after your Easter feast means materials have the best chance of being recycled rather than being sent to landfill. If you’re not certain what goes into which bin, check out your local recycling rules.”  

In the UK, most recycling systems are mixed, allowing materials like paper, plastic, and glass to be disposed of together, which often leads to higher contamination, particularly plastic mixed with paper and card.  

Top tips for recycling your Easter packaging

Separate the materials

Easter egg packaging often includes a mix of cardboard, plastic, and foil. Make sure to check the back of the packaging to see what materials are recyclable and separate them before disposal, as it makes recycling much more efficient.

Recycle the cardboard

The outer boxes and any inserts made of cardboard are almost always recyclable, so make sure this doesn’t end up in landfill. You can flatten them before placing them in your recycling bin to save space for other materials.

Scrunch and recycle foil

Research shows that consumers are least likely to recycle their Easter egg foil but it many cases it can be put in with your recycling. If your council does, you can scrunch it into a ball in your recycling bin, so bits don’t get lost during sorting at the recycling centre.

Reuse or get creative

Before you toss anything from your Easter packaging, think: can this be reused for crafts, storage, or gift wrapping? Clear plastic casings can be handy for storing little keepsakes, and colourful foil can be great for decorations or art projects.

Recycling Rules

Make sure to check your local recycling rules and bin collection schedules this bank holiday as they can differ across different regions in the UK.