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NJ law changes how you get plastic utensils, ketchup, other condiments

Source: Press of Atlantic City · Aug 1, 2026, 7:15 AM

AI-assisted briefing from the publisher’s public headline and excerpt — not original reporting. How we write briefings

NJ law changes how you get plastic utensils, ketchup, other condiments news image

Starting August 1, New Jersey's "Skip the Stuff" law will require food delivery services, takeout restaurants, and drive-thru establishments to provide condiments, utensils, napkins, and other single-use items only upon customer request rather than automatically.

The new regulation aims to reduce plastic waste and environmental impact by eliminating unnecessary disposable items from orders.

Customers ordering food delivery, picking up takeout, or using drive-thru services will need to specifically ask for ketchup, plastic forks, straws, and similar items if they want them included with their orders.

Key points

  • Effective August 1, New Jersey requires restaurants and food services to provide condiments and utensils only when customers specifically request them
  • The law applies to food delivery services, takeout restaurants, and drive-thru establishments across the state
  • Single-use items affected include plastic utensils, napkins, condiment packets, straws, and other disposable food service supplies
  • The regulation is designed to reduce plastic waste and promote environmental sustainability

FAQ

What is New Jersey's Skip the Stuff law?
It's a new regulation taking effect August 1 that requires food establishments to provide single-use items like condiments, utensils, and napkins only when customers request them, rather than automatically including them with orders.
Which restaurants and services must follow this law?
Food delivery services, takeout restaurants, drive-thru establishments, and other food service businesses operating in New Jersey must comply with the Skip the Stuff requirements.
What items are affected by this law?
The law covers plastic utensils, napkins, ketchup and other condiment packets, straws, and other single-use disposable food service items.

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