Swaps for Single-Use Plastics in Restaurants

The Scope of SUPPR 

Like most laws, there are nuances and lots of complicated exceptions. For instance, Canada has banned plastic grocery bags, but meat, flowers, newspapers, and clothing are still allowed to be packaged in plastic.  

However, the restaurant industry regulations are relatively cut and dry. The specifics of SUPPR that affect restaurants the most are bans on the following items made of single-use plastic: 

• Cutlery 

• Foodservice Ware 

• Stir sticks 

• Straws 

Things like plastic grocery bags and ring carriers for beverages are also listed. 

Some Plastics Are Fine, Some Are Not 

SUPPR does lay out some guidelines for what is considered “single-use plastic.” While this ban defines single-use as anything “designed to be discarded after being used once,” it also determines which plastics will fall under the “single-use” category. 

Specific types of plastics that are banned are: 

• Polyethylene, including high-density and low-density polyethylene 

• Polypropylene 

• Polystyrene, including expanded and extruded polystyrene 

• Polyvinyl chloride 

• Polylactic acid 

• Polyhydroxyalkanoates 

These terms probably don’t mean much to the average person. However, the general guideline is that anything that can’t be washed in an electric dishwasher 100 times without changing its physical structure (melting) is banned.

There are many simple, eco-friendly swaps for to-go items that we’re used to.

Best Alternatives for Plastic Cutlery

Single-use plastic cutlery is one of the more challenging items to find an alternative. While they may replace other banned items, many eco-friendly options aren’t hearty enough for all foods.

A straightforward swap for single-use plastic cutlery is not to offer any, or always make sure you are asking before providing cutlery. Most people get food to go, then take it back home or to work, where they most likely have access to metal cutlery.

Wooden cutlery can be slightly more expensive, but wood is an option if someone truly needs a fork with their to-go food.

Also, remember that certain plastics are still allowed. Thick, sturdy plastic cutlery that doesn’t melt in the dishwasher (and isn’t made of polystyrene or polyethylene) is still allowed, with some guidelines. For instance, It must be able to withstand many washes and reuses.

Best Alternatives for Plastic Food Service Ware

Luckily, takeout containers are easier to swap out. Alternatives to single-use plastics include recycled plastics and cardboard. So, look into compostable materials when searching for an easy replacement.

Encourage customers to bring their food service ware. Many coffee shops already offer discounts if customers bring thermoses from home. Consider offering a small discount if customers bring their own tupperware to take food home.

Best Alternatives for Plastic Straws 

A compostable straw might be the best option. Paper straws are widely available and are much more eco-friendly than single-use plastic.

However, don’t avoid plastic straws altogether. SUPPR allows bendable plastic straws for individuals with accessibility needs.

Best Alternatives for Other Plastics 

Customers and food industry managers must adapt to Canada’s new single-use plastic ban. Here are some other alternatives to keep in mind. 

Plastic Bags 

Worldwide, plastic grocery and carry-out bags were already falling by the wayside. With SUPPR, they’re now banned completely. One obvious solution is using paper bags at the grocery store or carry-out restaurants.

Customers should also get used to bringing reusable bags to the store. As long as they’re safely washable and carry heavy weight, some of the plastics in the SUPPR ban will double as materials in reusable bags. 

Flexible Drink Holders

Manufacturers will have to swap out six-pack rings with rigid, recyclable plastic holders. Another trend for replacing flexible drink holders is using cardboard or spent grain.

Stir Sticks

Plastic stir sticks, common at many coffee shops, are also on the list. Wood stir sticks are a common and affordable alternative. More creatively,Ssome places are already replacing these plastic stir sticks with spaghetti noodles. They’re compostable, cheap, and readily available.

Another option is only offering metal spoons or sending the customer off with reusable plastic cutlery.

Do Better with Darling 

The purpose of SUPPR is for Canada to curb its plastic waste. These single-use plastics don’t break down in landfills and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. They’re harmful to all ecosystems.  

The more waste we recycle, the more headway we can make in reversing the climate crisis. Partnering with Darling Ingredients saves time, money, and the environment. 

We’ll collect used cooking oil and transform it into biodiesel, which has lower emissions than conventional diesel.  

The food industry is changing. Stay ahead of the curve with Darling. Call us today to set up your used cooking oil system.