Plastic-free takeaway packaging: what UK, German and Dutch buyers should know
An overview of single-use plastic rules in England, Germany and the Netherlands, and the paper-based alternatives that fit them.
The direction across Europe
The EU Single-Use Plastics Directive banned items such as expanded polystyrene food containers and plastic cutlery, and the UK followed with its own bans. Buyers are moving to paper and cardboard containers, kraft bags and paper-based cups. Rules change often, so always check the current national guidance.
Germany
Packaging placed on the German market must be registered in the LUCID register under the Packaging Act (VerpackG). Restaurants and takeaways must also offer a reusable option for takeaway food and drinks, which makes clearly marked single-use paper packaging and logo-printed ranges important for distributors.
Netherlands
The Netherlands charges for single-use plastic cups and food containers and pushes businesses towards reusable or plastic-free options. Paper containers with water-based or low-plastic coatings are therefore in demand from Dutch horeca wholesalers.
United Kingdom
England banned single-use plastic plates, trays, bowls, cutlery and polystyrene food and drink containers for most food-service uses from October 2023. Paper and cardboard food boxes, kraft bowls and greaseproof wraps are the main replacements stocked by UK catering suppliers.