What the UK’s plastic ban means for your food business

What the UK’s plastic ban means for your food business

Since October 2023, hospitality businesses across the UK have been banned from supplying single-use plastic items, with the impact on takeaway, fast-food and quick-service restaurants particularly marked.

In fact, the regulations cover all packaging intended to be used just once before disposal. So even recycled, biodegradable or compostable packing won’t be compliant if it incorporates single-use plastics, while the ban extends to some polystyrene goods, too. (Specifically, those used to supply food ready for consumption.)

What items does the legislation cover?

Essentially, all the following are included within the ban, whether supplied or sold online or over the counter:

• Plates 
• Bowls 
• Cutlery 
• Cups 
• Takeaway trays 
• Balloon sticks

And you can no longer sell or supply these items even if you bought them prior to the ban.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes, there are a couple of exemptions. For example, pre-packaged goods such as salad bowls and ready meals sold ‘off the shelf’ or at the counter. Additionally, polystyrene containers are acceptable if the contents need further preparation (i.e. heating) before consumption.

So what are the implications for my food business?

Unfortunately, if your business does not comply with these regulations, you could face a hefty fine and, potentially, reputational damage. So, you have to make sure you’re not in breach of your legal obligations.

Local authorities enforce the ban, with inspectors ensuring businesses are compliant. They can do this through site visits, making purchases, talking to staff and viewing businesses record to check what you have bought.

At the same time, you’ll have to source different suppliers for alternative packaging solutions, and do so without disrupting your supply chain. And you will need to look carefully at whether making this switch will lead to higher packaging costs, then plan your budget accordingly. Additionally, you might have to adapt to varied customer habits and preferences to do with packaging.

However, you can also think of the ban as an opportunity to be innovative as you develop more environmentally packaging solutions. It’s also a smart PR move as consumers grow more aware of the importance of sustainability.

What’s the alternative?

Biodegradable alternatives include products made from bamboo, paper or cardboard, among other solutions. You could also consider metal cutlery for anyone eating in-house, encourage customers to bring their own cutlery or reusable containers, or offer to fill their travel cups or water bottles.

Compliant products from Well Catered

At Well Catered, we supply a wide range of fully compliant food packaging goods made from materials of the highest quality, handpicked by our staff teams who draw on their in-depth knowledge of and expertise in Britain’s food industry.

Check out our line-up of smart-looking, sustainable high-performing paper and wooden cutlery, plus our paper cups for hot and cold drinks. Replace plastic bags with our paper carrier and grab versions.

Get in touch via the online form, or email hello@wellcatered.co.uk. Why not sign up for our newsletter?

We’re always very happy to answer any questions you may have about our products, or the UK government’s ban on single-use plastics.