Navigating Regulations on Plastic Container Disposal for Restaurants

Consumers are demanding more takeout and delivery options for restaurants. While this provides new opportunities and revenue sources for food providers, it also raises some questions, the first being which containers to use?

For many of our customers, rapid changes have been needed as local and state municipalities have banned certain types of carry-out and food-storage containers. Styrofoam is one such material on the chopping block.

Why Is Styrofoam Being Banned in Restaurants?

Styrofoam is being banned in restaurants because it is not biodegradable or recyclable, and it can release harmful chemicals into food when heated. Additionally, Styrofoam breaks down into small particles that are often ingested by animals and birds, leading to health problems. Finally, Styrofoam can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing significantly to environmental pollution.

Many restaurants are switching to plastic containers, but they can’t just be any old plastic, they need to be recyclable.

Why Plastic Containers in Restaurants Need to Be Recyclable

Plastic containers used in restaurants need to be recyclable for a variety of reasons. First, using recyclable plastic containers helps reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills and pollutes the environment. Second, many customers are increasingly concerned about their environmental impact, and the use of recyclable plastics allows restaurants to appeal to these customers.

Finally, governments are introducing stricter regulations around single-use plastics. Having recyclable containers can help restaurants comply with these laws.

How to Navigate Regulations on Plastic Container Disposal

There are two considerations when it comes to plastic containers used by restaurants:

1) Plastic containers used at the restaurant and disposed of by the restaurant.

2) Plastic containers provided by the restaurant and given to customers for takeout or home delivery. These containers will be disposed of by the customer.

Navigating regulations on plastic container disposal for restaurants can be a daunting task. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the recycling of plastics, but laws may vary by region in the U.S.

It is important to research local and federal laws to ensure your restaurant is disposing of its plastic containers correctly. Restaurants should also check with their local waste management company or other organizations to determine what type of plastic containers can be recycled in their area.

Additionally, restaurants should be aware of any applicable taxes or fees that may apply when disposing of plastic containers, as some states have imposed additional restrictions on the disposal of certain materials such as plastics.

Furthermore, your business may be banned from providing certain types of takeout containers, disposable coffee cups, and storage units for your customers. Styrofoam, if it hasn’t been banned in your area already, is likely to be on the chopping block soon. Your restaurant cannot use just any old container for customers; it must be safe and FDA-approved, and ideally easily recyclable.

By understanding the local and federal regulations regarding plastic container disposal for restaurants, businesses can ensure they remain compliant with all relevant rules and regulations.

Need Recyclable Plastic Containers for Your Restaurant?

Sunshine Supply Company offers a wide selection of BPA-free plastic containers for restaurants that meet FDA standards. Our recyclable containers are made from organic plastics, so there is no risk of BPA leaking into the food if exposed to extreme temperatures, acidity, alkalinity, or frequent washing. Enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that your food is safe from BPA contamination when stored in our containers, which are fully recyclable.

Visit our website to learn more about our FDA-approved and recyclable BPA-free plastic containers.