New regulations in gastronomy. Additional fees and severe penalties

As of July 1, new regulations regarding the sale of takeaway food have been in force in Poland. Catering establishments offering single-use plastic packaging must now provide alternative, ecological solutions. Businesses who fail to comply with the new requirements may be fined up to PLN 20,000.

New regulations in gastronomy

These changes are the result of the EU SUP (Single Use Plastic) directive, which aims to

reducing the negative impact of plastic products on the environment. The new regulations prohibit the sale of single-use plastic products, such as cotton buds, cutlery or straws, and introduce a deposit system for plastic bottles.

Restaurants, cafes, confectioneries, bakeries, pubs and bars must offer alternative takeaway packaging that is biodegradable or reusable. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in fines ranging from PLN 500 to PLN 20,000.

Despite the regulations in force, entrepreneurs do not always show a willingness to comply with them. During last week’s session of the parliamentary environment committee, deputy minister Anita Sowińska informed about numerous signals regarding non-compliance with the new regulations. Problems arise, among others, in the matter of charging additional fees for plastic containers and cups, which should be 25 gr and 20 gr respectively. An example are ice cream parlours, which do not always add a deposit for plastic ice cream buckets.

The new regulations aim to reduce plastic waste and promote more ecological solutions in the catering industry. Authorities have announced intensive checks and severe penalties for entrepreneurs who do not comply with the new requirements.