SUP-guidelines

Everything about measures related to plastic-containing food packaging and single-use cups. On July 3, 2021, the first measures of the SUP (Single Use Plastics) legislation came into effect. A ban was introduced on the sale of various disposable plastic products, including plastic plates, cutlery, stirrers, and straws. These measures were only the beginning of the SUP guidelines, which are divided into phases. New guidelines will be introduced from July 2023 and January 2024.The new guidelines affect both the producers and suppliers of the packaging as well as the consumers and end-users. Producers will be partly responsible for cleaning up litter. Additionally, there will be changes for consumers and end-users. This overview goes into more detail on the measures that affect consumers of the products (such as hospitality entrepreneurs) and end-users.The measures aim to reduce the use of plastic-containing cups and food packaging and to prevent littering. Furthermore, the ministry wants to increase public awareness.

The new measures specifically concern products that are made entirely or partially of plastic, such as cardboard coffee cups that always have a thin plastic coating. Below you will find a list of products that fall under the new regulations:

Drink cups:
Single-use cups that are fully or partially made of (bio)plastic. Pre-filled cups for the consumption of beverages and portion packaging. Empty cups sold by wholesalers. Cups with instant powders that require the addition of milk or water, for example.

Single-use food packaging:
Packaging for hot meals, such as French fry trays or hamburger boxes. Packaging for cold meals, such as salad containers and bowls. Dessert or ice cream in portion packaging for immediate consumption. Vegetables or fruits that do not require further preparation. Snacks, nuts, and crackers in boxes. Portion packaging for sauces, spreads, etc.

Single-use vs. reusable packaging:
The new measures concern only single-use products, such as plastic-containing cups and food packaging. Reusable packaging is still allowed, provided that a clear distinction can be made between single-use and reusable packaging. It is important that the product is actually reused by the end-user and is not just labeled as "reusable" by the provider.

There are several indicators to consider when determining whether a packaging is suitable for reuse: The packaging must be able to be cleaned, washed, or repaired without compromising its ability to be reused for its original purpose. The packaging must be able to be emptied without being damaged. The packaging must be designed to make multiple rounds within its lifespan.

New measure:
The ministry distinguishes between consumption on the go and consumption on-site in the new measures.

Consumption on the go
From July 2023, it will be prohibited to provide plastic-containing disposable cups and food packaging for free to consumers. However, there are some solutions to deal with this: Offer a reusable alternative. Let the consumer bring their own packaging. Charge a small amount for the packaging. The non-binding indicative amounts are: € 0.25 for a cup, € 0.50 for a meal (which may consist of multiple packages), € 0.05 for packaging of pre-packaged vegetables, fruits, and nuts, and small portion packaging. For take-out and delivery, there will be little change. There is no ban on plastic-containing products, only on providing them for free to consumers starting July 2023. Similar to plastic bags, the provider will have to charge a small (self-determined) amount for the packaging. Additionally, reusable alternatives or packaging brought by the consumer can be used.

Consumption on-site
From January 2024, it will be prohibited to offer plastic-containing disposable cups and food packaging for consumption