Reusable food and drinks

According to the Packaging Act, from January 1, 2023, restaurants, canteens, hot counters, bakeries, etc. that offer ready-to-eat takeaway food in disposable plastic packaging must also provide customers with the option of reusable packaging. In particular, they should replace single-use plastic packaging. Reusable packaging must not be more expensive. Customers must be made aware of this option with clearly visible information signs. It is permitted to charge a deposit, which is refunded when the reusable container is returned.

There is a special regulation for disposable cups. If businesses use disposable cups for drinks, they must generally offer a reusable alternative - regardless of the material.

In the interests of waste prevention, consumers should opt for reusable packaging and avoid disposable packaging.

Businesses affected:

• Restaurants, gastronomy
• (Ice cream) cafés, bistros, snack bars
• Canteens, canteens
• Bakeries, butchers, retail counters and salad bars
• Delivery services, mobile catering businesses, etc.

Smaller businesses such as snack bars or kiosks with fewer than 5 employees and a maximum store area of 80 square meters are exempt from this regulation. However, these businesses must then allow customers to use containers they have brought with them and must also indicate this option.