How 'Skip The Stuff' Law Changes Restaurant Orders in New Jersey
Summary
New Jersey has a new law called the "Skip the Stuff" law that limits the automatic inclusion of single-use plastic items like utensils, straws, and condiments in takeout and delivery orders. Starting August 1, 2026, restaurants and food services must only provide these items when customers ask for them, as part of efforts to reduce plastic waste.Key Facts
- The law became effective on August 1, 2026, and applies to all food service businesses in New Jersey, including restaurants, food trucks, and delivery services.
- Single-use items such as plastic utensils, straws, and condiment packets can no longer be included automatically with orders.
- Customers must specifically request these items when ordering, especially on apps or online platforms.
- Full-service restaurants with seating for 10 or more must use reusable utensils and serve condiments in bottles or reusable containers for dine-in customers.
- The law aims to reduce plastic waste that harms wildlife and pollutes the environment, as 95% of food packaging is thrown away after one use.
- Some places, like schools, health care facilities, and correctional facilities, are exempt from the law.
- Food court vendors have a temporary exemption until August 1, 2028.
- Businesses that break the law face warnings or penalties, with increasing consequences for repeated violations.
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