Packaging Act 2023 - For whom the reusable packaging law is relevant and what it means for restaurateurs

For whom is the Reusable Packaging Act 2023 relevant?

The new reusable law, which came into force on January 1, 2023, particularly affects the catering and retail sectors. The law aims to reduce the use of disposable packaging and promote the use of reusable packaging. The aim is to reduce waste and reduce the burden on the environment. The reusable law affects food and catering businesses and all businesses that package take-away food and drinks in disposable plastic containers or disposable cups. A reusable alternative must be offered that must not be more expensive than the disposable option. Small businesses with less than 80 square meters of sales space and up to five employees are exempt from this requirement, but must fill containers brought in upon request and inform customers about this.

What do I have to consider as a restaurateur with regard to the Reusable Packaging and Packaging Act 2023?

As a restaurateur, you should familiarize yourself with the new reusable packaging law 2023 and ensure that you meet all relevant requirements. In particular, you should ensure that enough suitable reusable packaging can be offered. It is also important that you inform your guests about the advantages of reusable packaging and explain the advantages over disposable packaging.

How do I convert my product range from disposable to reusable?

If you have previously offered mainly disposable packaging and meet the above criteria, you should now change your product range. To do this, you should purchase suitable reusable packaging and use it for your food and drinks in the to-go business. This reusable packaging should be high-quality and robust so that it can be used multiple times. A very good choice is, for example, packaging made of robust plastic that your customers can simply return with their next order.

What does the new 2023 reusable catering requirement mean in the to-go sector and who is monitoring the reusable requirement?

The new 2023 reusable requirement in the to-go sector stipulates that reusable packaging must be used in certain cases. This applies, among other things, to the sale of drinks in disposable cups. If you, as a restaurateur, offer drinks to take away, you will also have to offer your customers reusable cups and actively promote them. This applies both to serving on site and to the sale of drinks to take away. The reusable requirement in the catering industry is monitored by the responsible authorities in the respective federal states. If you violate the Packaging Act 2023, fines can be imposed.