Lawmakers in California, the United States, are very concerned about the packaging of take-out food. They passed several bills that will have a significant impact on the food packaging pattern of restaurants across the state. Several bills that will revolutionize food packaging in restaurants are awaiting the signing of Governor Gavin Newsom.
1. Prohibition of "permanent chemicals"
The so-called "permanent chemicals"-the name of perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances is abbreviated as PFAS, because they do not decompose, and are usually used in disposable food packaging made of paper or plant fibers to make the container resistant to liquids and grease.
According to the California Safer Food Packaging and Cookware Act of 2021 approved earlier this month, the sale or distribution of food packaging containing PFAS will be prohibited from January 1, 2023. Cookware manufacturers will also be required to disclose the use of PFAS and other toxic products by 2024.
2. Disposable tableware is only provided upon request
Disposable tableware accessories and standard condiment bills affect full-service restaurants. Unless consumers specifically request them, they will be prohibited from providing these items. Usually, plastic tableware and ketchup pouches are added to the take-out bag, but they are thrown into the trash can. Especially when customers are eating at home. This unnecessary waste can be avoided. The bill also requires third-party delivery companies to provide menus with lists of available condiments and disposable food accessories so that consumers can choose what they need. A special law enforcement agency will be created by June 2022.
3. Environmental advertising
The so-called "chase arrow" symbol-theoretically-shows a recycled product, currently used for basically any product that can be recycled. Even if the packaging does not meet the national recyclable standards. Legislators believe that consumers should obtain accurate and useful information about the environmental impact of plastic products and the end of product or packaging life. Therefore, it is prohibited to make false claims about the recyclability of products and packaging.
4. Recycling glass beverage containers
If passed, the California Beverage Container Recycling and Waste Reduction Act will not only allow glass beverage containers to be recycled, but they can also be disinfected and reused. Beverage distributors will pay the collected bottle deposit for refilling reusable bottles.
