Canada is taking bold steps to support sustainability, especially in the food service sector. With growing consumer demand for eco-conscious options and evolving legislation at all levels of government, businesses are expected to adapt. If your restaurant or food business relies on takeout packaging, here are five important Canadian laws you should be aware of—especially when choosing clamshell containers.
1. The Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA)
CEPA provides the foundation for assessing and regulating substances that may harm the environment or human health. Under this act, the federal government can restrict certain single-use plastics—including specific non-compostable or non-recyclable clamshell containers. For food businesses, this means a shift toward sustainable packaging that meets CEPA-compliant standards.
2. Single-Use Plastics Prohibition Regulations
As part of Canada’s Zero Plastic Waste Strategy, these federal regulations began phasing in 2021. They prohibit the manufacture, import, and sale of certain single-use plastic items, including many traditional plastic clamshells. Restaurants must now opt for certified compostable or recyclable containers, opening the door to more sustainable and innovative packaging options.
3. Provincial Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programs
EPR programs hold producers responsible for the end-of-life management of their packaging. Provinces like British Columbia require companies that manufacture or sell packaging—such as takeout containers—to manage collection and recycling. This encourages food businesses to source containers that are easier to recover, recycle, or compost, reducing environmental waste and enhancing circular economy practices.
4. Municipal Bans on Styrofoam Containers
Cities like Vancouver and Toronto have introduced local bans on polystyrene (Styrofoam) clamshell containers due to their inability to break down and be recycled efficiently. Restaurants in these municipalities must switch to alternatives such as fiber-based or biodegradable packaging—many of which are available from C-Pac.
5. Green Procurement Policies
Governments at both federal and provincial levels are prioritizing sustainable purchasing. Through Green Procurement Policies, agencies are encouraged or required to buy environmentally friendly products—including takeout containers. These standards trickle down to suppliers and food businesses, creating broader demand for compostable and recyclable packaging.
How These Laws Impact Businesses and Consumers
Legislation around packaging is reshaping the food service industry. Restaurants and suppliers must remain compliant, often by investing in new materials and redesigning how food is packaged and presented. Although there may be initial costs, these changes foster innovation and position your business as a sustainability leader.
Consumers, meanwhile, are benefiting from safer, cleaner packaging options that align with their environmental values. Compostable and recyclable containers help reduce pollution and landfill waste, and make dining on-the-go more eco-friendly than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eco-Friendly Takeout Laws
Laws around sustainable packaging are evolving quickly. Here’s what food businesses need to know...
Are compostable containers required by law in all provinces?
Not yet—but regulations are increasingly pushing toward compostable or recyclable options. Local requirements vary, so it’s important to stay informed based on your location.
Can I still use plastic clamshells?
In most areas, traditional plastic clamshells are being phased out or are already prohibited. Compostable or recyclable options are strongly encouraged and often required.
What qualifies as a sustainable clamshell?
Containers made from paperboard, bagasse (sugarcane fiber), or other certified compostable materials are ideal. These meet most provincial and federal standards.
How do I place an order?
You can reach out to us anytime via our Contact Us page and a member of our team will help you with pricing, availability, and order options.
Looking for clamshell containers that meet Canadian sustainability regulations?
Visit our website to explore compostable and recyclable options.
Available now at www.c-pac.com