A new law that went into effect on August 1 has changed the way you order takeout in New Jersey.
Under the “Skip the Stuff” law, restaurants can no longer automatically pack single-use plastic utensils, straws, or condiment packets with to-go orders, and customers who want those items must now specifically request them. The law was signed by then-Democratic Governor Phil Murphy in January and took effect last week. Its purpose is to reduce plastic waste and limit the so-called environmental footprint of food businesses.
Officials touting the new law noted that approximately 95% of food packaging is discarded after a single use.
In practice, this means plastic knives, forks, spoons, chopsticks, and individual packets of ketchup or other condiments will no longer appear in takeout bags by default. Diners can still receive them free of charge, but only if they ask. The same rule applies to online ordering platforms. Services such as DoorDash and Uber Eats must now default to withholding utensils unless a customer actively chooses to include them.
The restrictions also cover restaurants that offer indoor seating for at least 10 people. These establishments may provide only washable utensils for diners eating on site. Condiment packets are no longer allowed; sauces and seasonings must instead come from full size bottles or other reusable containers.
Some places are exempt. Public and private K-12 schools do not have to follow the law, nor do county or state correctional facilities or healthcare facilities. Food court restaurants have until August 1, 2028, before the requirements apply to them.
Enforcement begins with a warning for the first violation. A second offense can bring daily fines of up to $100. Later violations carry higher penalties of as much as $250 per day.
The measure stacks on earlier plastic reduction steps in New Jersey. In 2022, the state banned single-use plastic carryout bags and polystyrene foam food containers. In 2021, it placed restrictions on plastic straws. A similar “Skip the Stuff” law went into effect in New York City in July 2023.
For customers, the most instantaneous change is a small adjustment in how they place an order. Whether ordering in person, by phone, or through an app, diners must now decide if they need utensils or packets and say so clearly.
Restaurants and delivery platforms are required to wait for that request before including the items. The law does not ban the items when asked for, it simply ends the previous practice of including them automatically with every order.
The rules are now in effect for most restaurants and delivery services across New Jersey, with the noted exemptions for schools, institutional facilities, and food courts until 2028.