Californians Can Bring Their Own Containers for Takeout
New law clarifies how restaurants can safely accept reusable containers.
Jul 22, 2019
ALEXANDRIA, Va.—A new California law aims to make it easier for restaurants to allow reusable takeout cups and containers brought in by guests, reports Restaurant Hospitality. The move is part of an ongoing effort to reduce single-use plastics.
Some restaurants have encouraged the practice—especially for cups. But some have concerns about the potential for cross-contamination.
Matt Sutton, senior vice president of government affairs and public policy for the California Restaurant Association, said the intent of the law is to clarify how restaurants can safely allow reusables if they choose. But “a restaurant doesn’t have to accept these containers,” he said. “If they want to, there’s no responsibility on the restaurant’s part to clean and sanitize them.”
Assembly Bill 619, signed by the governor on July 12, establishes that: Restaurants must isolate the consumer-owned container from the serving surface or sanitize the surface after each filling. Restaurants must also have a written policy for prevention of cross-contamination available for inspectors.
At temporary food facilities, such as those used at events and festivals, reusable containers can be used. Now local health departments may allow multiuse utensils and dishes to be used at temporary foodservice sites if they are cleaned, rinsed and sanitized on site or at an approved facility.
Compliance and regulations Food prepared on-site Food safety Format
