Planning Ahead: Get Ready For The Single-Use Plastics Ban - A Guide for the Hospitality Industry

The government has confirmed single-use plastics will be banned from October 2023 in England. The ban will include single-use plastic plates, trays, bowls, cutlery, balloon sticks, and certain polystyrene cups and food containers. The ban is part of the government's plan to reduce plastic pollution across the country and protect our environment. This will undoubtedly significantly affect hospitality businesses relying heavily on disposable food and drink packaging when serving customers. Restaurants, coffee shops, food vendors and other outlets must now find new ways to package their products without relying on single-use plastic materials that can't be recycled or reused. 

At IPA Supplies, we understand this transition period may be daunting and are on hand to help you find the best sustainable takeaway solutions for your business. We stock a wide range of sustainable takeaway packaging and prioritise sourcing affordable, eco-friendly food and drink packaging for your business!

How Can IPA Supplies Help You?

Making the transition from single-use plastics can be daunting; our friendly and knowledgeable customer services team are on hand to help find the best sustainable takeaway packaging for your business.

We stock a wide range of products made from renewable materials, such as sugarcane pulp, paper and cardboard, designed to replace single-use plastics. These products are more eco-friendly than their plastic counterparts and can help companies meet the new regulations when the single-use plastics ban comes into effect in October 2023.

Our friendly team can offer advice on how best to identify and switch away from single-use plastics, as well as guidance on choosing alternative packaging solutions that are both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. This includes information about available materials, manufacturing processes, delivery timescales and any potential savings or benefits associated with changing away from single-use plastic products.

Alternative Materials for Takeaway Packaging

There are various alternatives to single-use plastics for takeaway packaging that are biodegradable, compostable,or recyclable. These alternatives provide an eco-friendly solution while still providing a safe way to transport food without compromising its quality or taste.

Kraft Paperboard provides an affordable solution for businesses looking for sustainable takeaway packaging without compromising on convenience or safety standards; cardboard provides excellent protection against contamination, making it perfect for food delivery services. Kraft takeaway packaging is lightweight, durable and made from food-grade paperboard or cardboard, meaning no harmful residue. We stock a range of Kraft packaging options, including coffee cups, pizza boxes, sandwich packaging, noodle boxes and more!

Bagasse is a stylish eco alternative to polystyrene, suitable for hot and cold food. This material is made from a sugarcane by-product; the natural fibres keep food fresher for longer. This sustainable material does not absorb oil or water. Bagasse packaging is a 100% plastic-free alternative. Whether you are looking for clamshells, plates or food trays, we stock a range of bagasse products, ideal for food on the go. 

Palm leaf products are made from naturally fallen Areca Palm tree leaves. Fallen leaves are gathered and cleansed with high-pressure water jets. Once dried, they are shaped under heated moulds. There are no coatings, additives or chemicals, just the natural leaf. These unique palm leaf plates are an excellent sustainable option for serving your culinary delights at markets, festivals, events, garden parties and special occasions.

Bamboo is a highly durable, lightweight material, ideal for food delivery.Bamboo is a renewable, natural material which biodegrades quickly and without harming the environment. The raw bamboo material means each product has its own unique look and colourings, which is great for adding a natural feel to your business and highlighting your commitment to sustainability to your customers. We stock bamboo chopsticks and canape cones ideal for events.

Plant-based plastics, also known as bioplastics derived from organic, plant-based materials, such as corn starch, cassava, sugar cane, or sugar beet. They break down without harmful chemicals into the atmosphere. PLA has a low melt point, so it is best for cold use up to around 40ºC or 105ºF. CPLA is suitable where more heat resistance is needed, such as lids for coffee or soup. Plant-based packaging offers a sustainable and versatile alternative to traditional plastics.

Are You Ready for the Single-Use Plastics Ban?

The ban on single-use plastics in England will come into effect from October 2023. Is your business ready? Whether you own a takeaway outlet, food van, coffee shop or deli, all hospitality venues will likely be impacted by this change. At IPA Supplies, we stock a range of sustainable takeaway packaging alternatives and are ready to help you find the best product for your business. We partner with leading manufacturers such as Vegware, Edenware and eGreen to bring you quality eco-friendly food and drink packaging.