7-Eleven Beats Some Claims in Suit Over ‘Recyclable’ Plasticware

“Recyclable” means “can be recycled,” not “Will Be Recycled at a Facility Near YOU!,” a federal court in Illinois said, significantly trimming a proposed class action against 7-Eleven Inc. over its portrayal of its plasticware.

When Devon Curtis bought store-brand foam cups, foam plates, party cups, and freezer bags marked “recyclable,” she didn’t think they’d end up in a landfill or incinerator. Curtis alleged that the word is deceptive because although the items are made of plastic that can be recycled, very few recycling facilities actually accept that type of plastic.

She also alleged that some items lacked recycling designations ...