FAQ Drinking Straws
Drinking straws and sustainability – an impossible combination?
Drinking straws, also known as straws, are practical companions for a wide variety of drinks. For many customers, they are simply part of enjoying certain drinks. Are environmentally conscious restaurateurs now in a tight spot? In this article, we take a look at the ban on plastic drinking straws, sustainable alternatives and a notorious myth surrounding drinking straws...
Everything about drinking straws
Welcome to our straw FAQ page! Here we answer the most common questions about straws - from materials and recycling to sizes and environmentally friendly alternatives. Whether you run a restaurant or just want to know more about sustainable options, you'll find all the important information at a glance here.
Plastic drinking straws: Are plastic drinking straws banned?
Plastic drinking straws: Are plastic drinking straws banned?
The answer is yes. In many regions and countries, single-use plastic drinking straws are banned. There is also an EU-wide ban on plastic drinking straws. This was introduced to reduce the disastrous environmental impact of the accumulation of waste caused by plastic straws.
Which drinking straws are allowed?
Which drinking straws are allowed?
Basically, most common alternatives are harmless to health and are therefore permitted: These include reusable drinking straws made of stainless steel, glass or plastic, biodegradable pasta straws or PLA drinking straws as well as paper drinking straws .
Why paper drinking straws?
Why paper drinking straws?
Paper drinking straws in particular have become increasingly popular in recent years because they are a more environmentally friendly alternative to plastic drinking straws. Unlike their plastic predecessors, paper straws are easy to recycle and are usually even biodegradable. If they are not very cheaply made, they can also be used to enjoy several drinks without any problems, contrary to frequent criticism.
Organic straws: What are PLA drinking straws?
Organic straws: What are PLA drinking straws?
In addition to paper straws, organic straws such as PLA straws are another environmentally friendly alternative. PLA straws are made of PLA (polylactide), a bioplastic made from renewable raw materials such as corn starch or sugar cane. These straws are biodegradable and have almost no impact on the environment.
How do I dispose of drinking straws?
How do I dispose of drinking straws?
The correct disposal of drinking straws depends on their material. Paper drinking straws can be put in the paper waste and are usually recycled. However, many can also be composted - so always pay close attention to the product properties! PLA drinking straws also belong in the organic or compost waste.
How long is a drinking straw?
How long is a drinking straw?
The length of a straw varies depending on its intended use. Standard straws for soft drinks are usually around 20 cm long. Long straws used for cocktails or drinks with ice can be up to 25 cm long. There are also shorter straws suitable for small glasses or children's drinks.
Long straws for the effect: Why is alcohol stronger with a straw?
Long straws for the effect: Why is alcohol stronger with a straw?
The idea that alcohol is stronger with a (long) straw is a myth. A straw does not affect the strength of a drink. However, the speed at which you drink can be affected by a straw. Some people drink faster with straws, which means they also consume more alcohol in a shorter time. However, there are also many people who drink significantly more slowly with a straw than without - the blame for drunkenness should not be placed on a straw, regardless of whether it is a short or a long straw.
Buying sustainable drinking straws is worth it!
Since there are many sustainable alternatives to environmentally harmful drinking straws , offering drinking straws and acting sustainably do not have to be mutually exclusive. As a restaurateur, you can still buy drinking straws for your customers. However, you should ensure that they are disposed of properly and, if possible, use biodegradable alternatives. This not only has advantages for the environment: Your customers will appreciate it if you invest in sustainability.