If you run a café, food truck, or restaurant, packaging isn’t just about presentation anymore – it’s about compliance. With the UK government tightening regulations around single-use plastics and sustainability reporting, staying ahead of the rules is now part of running a successful food business.

Here’s a breakdown of the latest packaging regulations and what they mean for you.

The End of Single-Use Plastics

The UK’s ban on certain single-use plastics, including cutlery, plates, and polystyrene takeaway boxes, has officially come into force. For food businesses, this means:

• No more EPS (polystyrene) containers – those lightweight foam boxes are now prohibited.
• Plastic cutlery and straws – unless reusable or compostable, they’re no longer allowed.
• Plastic plates and bowls – also restricted for takeaway and catering use.

What to do instead: Switch to bagasse clamshells, kraft trays, and CPLA cutlery. These alternatives are sturdy, sustainable, and widely available.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

The UK’s Extended Producer Responsibility scheme is rolling out, shifting the cost of packaging waste management onto businesses. Even small operators may need to report the types of packaging they use.

• If you’re a micro business (under £2m turnover / less than 50 tonnes of packaging a year): You’re currently exempt.
• For others: You’ll need to track, record, and in some cases pay fees on the packaging you supply.

What to do instead: Start keeping records now. Choose FSC-certified, recyclable, and compostable packaging to reduce both environmental impact and future compliance costs.

Consumer Expectations Keep Rising

Beyond regulations, customer demand for sustainable packaging is only getting stronger. Research shows:

• 73% of UK consumers say they’re more likely to buy from a business using eco-friendly packaging.
• Takeaway and delivery customers increasingly expect clear “recyclable” or “compostable” messaging on their packaging.

What to do instead: Make your eco efforts visible. Use printed disposal instructions, highlight your sustainability choices on menus, and feature them on social media.

The Role of Technology

Digital tools are becoming key in packaging and sustainability compliance. From carbon footprint calculators to QR codes on packaging that explain how to dispose of it, technology is helping food businesses keep pace with change.

What to do instead: Consider adding QR codes to your custom printed cups and boxes, linking customers to disposal guidance or even loyalty rewards. It’s an easy way to blend compliance with customer engagement.

The Bottom Line

The food packaging landscape is changing fast – and 2025 is all about adapting to new rules, new costs, and new customer expectations. The good news? By choosing the right packaging partner, you can stay compliant, look good, and keep your customers happy.

At Agora, we help food businesses of every size navigate these changes with a wide range of sustainable packaging solutions, plus expert advice on compliance and custom branding.

Explore our Sustainability Page to learn more, or contact us for tailored advice on your packaging needs.