Abstract: According to the invention, an identification system for disposable drinking cups is provided, which system comprises an identification system for a plurality of disposable drinking cups, said drinking cups being made from plastic, plastic composites, bio-based materials, fiber-based materials or other configurable materials, each of the drinking cups being provided with a unique identifying indicia by way of selection from a plurality of indicia, said indicia being a plurality of distinct areas associated with said cup, each area being configurable from an original condition to a visibly different condition, wherein said plurality of distinct areas are depressible dimples, blisters, or other raised surfaces, and wherein depressing said distinct area configures said area to said visibly different condition and whereas each area provides a unique identifier.