NJ's 'Skip the Stuff' law changes takeout utensils, condiments

Key points

• New Jersey restaurants must stop automatically handing out plastic utensils and condiment packets starting in August
• The state discards approximately 20 billion single-use plastic items annually from food service
• Customers can still request utensils and condiments, but they won't be included by default
• The 'Skip the Stuff' law represents an environmental initiative to reduce plastic waste in New Jersey

FAQ

When does the 'Skip the Stuff' law take effect?

The law takes effect in August. Starting then, restaurants in New Jersey will no longer automatically provide single-use plastic utensils and condiment packets with takeout orders.

Will I still be able to get utensils and condiments?

Yes. Customers can still request plastic forks, spoons, knives, and condiment packets when placing their order or at pickup. The law simply changes the default from automatic inclusion to opt-in upon request.

Why is New Jersey implementing this law?

The state aims to reduce environmental waste. New Jersey currently discards nearly 20 billion single-use plastic utensils and condiment packets annually. The law encourages restaurants and consumers to think more consciously about single-use plastic consumption.