Revised Food Packaging Law Takes Effect In Santa Cruz

SANTA CRUZ, CA — A revised ordinance that requires food service businesses to change all to-go food packaging to be "environmentally acceptable" went into effect in Santa Cruz today. The revised law requires food packaging, including beverage lids, straws, containers and cutlery, to be biodegradable, compostable or recyclable.

The Santa Cruz City Council approved the ordinance revisions on Sept. 26. City officials said businesses may charge a take-out fee of 25 cents or credit the customer 25 cents for bringing their own containers.

“These changes will aid in the City’s duty to protect its natural environment, economy and citizens’ health,” city officials said in a statement.

Businesses have a six-month period to use up their current supply of food packaging.

City officials shared a list of environmentally acceptable packaging guidelines:

• Plastic cutlery is not allowed, however, compostable cutlery is acceptable.
• Plastic straws are not allowed, however, compostable straws such as those made of paper are acceptable.
• Polystyrene #6 products including hot beverage lids are not allowed.
• Plastic stir sticks are not allowed, however, wood stir sticks are acceptable.
• The definition of the term “polystyrene” is expanded to include clear or solid polystyrene which is known as “oriented polystyrene.” (This is a newer form of polystyrene that was not addressed in the original ordinance. )

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