Single-use plastics ban: plates, bowls, trays, containers, cutlery and balloon sticks
From 1 October 2023 businesses must no longer supply, sell or offer certain single-use plastic items in England.
The ban on these items will include:
- online and over-the-counter sales and supply
- items from new and existing stock
- all types of single-use plastic, including biodegradable, compostable and recycled
- items wholly or partly made from plastic, including coating or lining
‘Single use’ means the item is meant to be used only once for its original purpose.
How to prepare for the ban
You can prepare your business for the new rules by:
- using up existing stock before 1 October
- finding re-usable alternatives to single-use items
- using different materials for single-use items
If you continue to supply banned single-use plastics after 1 October, you could be fined.
There are some exemptions to the ban, depending on the item.
Plates, bowls and trays
From 1 October you must not supply single-use plastic plates, trays and bowls to members of the public.
Exemptions
You can still supply single-use plastic plates, bowls and trays if either of the following apply:
- you are supplying them to another business
- the items are packaging (pre-filled or filled at the point of sale)
Examples of this type of packaging include:
- a pre-filled salad bowl or ready meal packaged in a tray
- a plate filled at the counter of a takeaway
- a tray used to deliver food
Cutlery and balloon sticks
From 1 October you must not supply single-use plastic cutlery or balloon sticks.
There are no exemptions to this ban.
Polystyrene food and drink containers
From 1 October you must not supply ready-to-consume food and drink in polystyrene containers. This includes in polystyrene cups.
Polystyrene means expanded and extruded polystyrene.
Exemptions
You can still supply food or drink in polystyrene containers if it needs further preparation before it is consumed. For example, further preparation could mean:
- adding water
- microwaving
- toasting
Inspections
Local authorities will carry out inspections to make sure the rules are being followed.
Inspectors can:
- visit a shop or store
- make test purchases
- speak to staff
- ask to see records
If you break the law, inspectors can order your business to cover the cost of the investigation.
Complaints about a business breaking the law can be made to Trading Standards.
Get help
For more information see link here.
If you have any questions about what the new rules mean for your business, contact Plastics.Consultation@defra.gov.uk.
