Single-Use Plastic Rules for Takeaways
If you run a takeaway or café in England, some single-use plastics can no longer be supplied. This is a plain-English summary, not legal advice, so check the government guidance on gov.uk for the exact and latest rules for your business. Rules in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are different.
What the English rules cover
From 1 October 2023 it is against the law in England to supply single-use plastic plates, trays and bowls, and single-use plastic cutlery, to customers, including for takeaway food. Polystyrene food and drink containers are also covered. It applies to businesses selling food and drink, not only to large chains.
What takeaways use instead
- Paper-based boxes and bowls: kraft boxes and deli bowls.
- Moulded plant fibre: bagasse boxes.
- Wooden cutlery: our cutlery range includes birchwood forks, knives and dessert spoons, and wooden chip forks.
- Foil containers: aluminium containers for hot food.
What to do now
- Check each item you supply to customers against the government guidance.
- Replace any item that is single-use plastic and covered.
- Keep your supplier's product details, so you can show what each item is made of.
If you are not sure whether a product is suitable, ask us. We would rather answer a question than have you buy the wrong thing.