UK single use plastic ban- what you need to know

From 1^st October 2023 the Environmental Protection (Plastic Plates, etc. and Polystyrene Containers etc.; England) Regulations 2023 come into force. From this date, supplying or offering to supply certain plastic or polystyrene items in the course of business will be prohibited, whether online or in-store. The ban applies to single-use plastic plates, bowls and trays, cutlery and balloon sticks. Single-use polystyrene food and drink containers will also be banned.

The ban does not apply to single-use plastic plates, bowls and trays which are sold shelf-ready and pre-packed at the point of sale (i.e. bowls or platters of frozen meals), nor does it apply to single-use plastic items which are packaged (pre-filled or filled at the point of sale) to takeaway (i.e. pre-filled salad bowl at supermarkets; plates filled at a takeaway; trays used to deliver food etc.).

As the vast majority of our customers fill at point of sale and serve customers at the counter, we can advise that this is still allowed using plastic packaging in the form of bowls/lids/trays.

Plastic cutlery is NOT allowed and alternatives are available.

Ambican have alternatives for all the items that come under the ban so call us on 0208 965 8399 if you need any assistance. We will advise which items can be used instead of what is banned.