Follow
Follow
LinkedIn Facebook X Youtube e-mail
LinkedIn Facebook X Youtube e-mail

The status quo for the 2023 reusable packaging obligation

The legal obligation to reuse food will come into force in a few weeks. However, hardly any catering businesses are fully prepared. This is shown by a recent survey by Greenbox.

The legal obligation to offer reusable alternatives will come into force in a few weeks. However, hardly any catering businesses are yet fully prepared - as confirmed by a recent survey conducted by Greenbox GmbH among around 720 catering customers of food service solutions.

The status quo: Although More than half of those surveyed (58 per cent) decided in favour of offering reusable products as an alternative or are currently planning its introduction on 1 January 2023, but the how still poses some challenges. 

Integrating reusable containers into catering establishments means acting in a more environmentally conscious manner, but also poses more challenges for catering businesses. Even choosing the right container with the right shape and function is an obstacle, as are visual blemishes after repeated use or poor thermal insulation of the containers. But the biggest challenge is returning the containers. For example, 76 per cent of respondents have not yet decided on a return system that they would like to offer their customers. The classic deposit system is often discussed. This means that customers borrow the containers for a predetermined fee and receive their deposit back when they return the reusable boxes.

As an alternative to deposit items or cash deposit systems, the reusable containers issued on a trust basis or lent with the help of apps. For the latter option Greenbox is already working intensively on a solution that is both free and easy to implement for customers and catering operators.

Display

Greenbox reusable
(Graphic: Greenbox)

In addition to returns, there are also numerous criteria for the containers themselves that are of great importance to catering businesses.

„Stackability, a tight-fitting lid and suitability for catering dishwashers are at the top of the list of must-haves, closely followed by bio-based and therefore biodegradable materials for the reusable containers - even before the price issue. Alternatives to petroleum-based plastic, which remains in the environment for centuries, are in high demand. It also emerged that respondents would like reusable containers to be recyclable. This is where Greenbox comes in and takes back reusable containers at the end of their life cycle in order to reintegrate them into the production process.“ Michael Brink, Managing Director of greenbox

„According to the survey, however, catering businesses underestimate one important aspect,“ emphasises Brink. „And that is microwaveability. This is precisely the important for end consumers to use their reusable products in the microwave as well.“ The same applies to storing the food in the fridge or freezer so that it can be eaten at a later date if necessary. Aspects that are taken into account with the products in the Häppy Family range from Greenbox.

Desire for a variety of reusable containers

According to a well-known saying, every pot has a lid to match - this or something similar applies to the search for the right container in the desired shape, colour, size and function. From sushi trays, catering and cake trays, ice cream cups, popcorn and nacho trays, there should be a suitable container for every business. For manufacturers of reusable products, this is an opportunity to respond to the specific wishes of catering businesses and develop optimal solutions so that a suitable container can be offered for every dish. „We offer customer-friendly solutions and a wide range of reusable containers,“ summarises Brink.

„No matter which option catering operators choose: It is important, to find a solution that is convenient for all sides, which enables them and their customers to make the out-of-home business more efficient and environmentally friendly without additional costs and to be prepared for upcoming changes in the catering industry.“

Source: Greenbox

Reusable - More news