AB 1276: Single-Use Foodware Accessories Available by Request Only

As of January 2022, California law AB 1276 requires all retail food facilities and food delivery platforms to provide single-use foodware accessories and condiments upon request only.

Foodware items covered by the law include single-use utensils, straws, chopsticks, stirrers, and condiment cups and packets, including those made from bioplastics, compostable plastic, bamboo, and paper. Facilities found in violation of the law may be fined.

The law requires that:

• Single-use foodware items cannot be bundled together.   
• Single-use foodware accessories and condiments can only be provided upon request, except at drive-throughs and airports, where staff can ask if a customer wants single-use foodware accessories.
• Food facilities using third-party delivery platforms can only provide single-use items and condiments that have been requested by a customer during the online ordering process.

Steps to Comply

• Inform staff that items must be requested, not provided by default.
• Post signage to let consumers know they can ask for what they need.
• Eliminate bundled single-use items.
• Self-serve stations are allowed as long as items are not bundled or wrapped. Consider providing bulk dispensers for condiments.
• Update online ordering menus to allow consumers to request each available accessory or condiment.