Waste free food and beverages

Using your own cup or container when purchasing food and beverages is  great way to reduce your impact on the environment.

Many cafes, restaurants and shops (such as butchers, fishmongers and poulterers) may allow you to purchases food and beverages in your own clean cup or container. In fact, some providers encourage this with a discount.

Food safety regulations in Victoria do not prohibit a registered food business from serving food or drink in a cup or container provided by a customer. It is up to the business to decide whether or not to allow it.

It is reasonable for a business to assess the cleanliness and condition of the container before putting food or beverages in it. 

To find local providers that allow you to bring your own clean cup or container, see:  

• BYO Containers – a directory listing food, beverage and grocery providers that offer trashless takeaway and BYO container options.
• Responsible Cafes – cafes that offer a discount to customers who bring their own reusable cup.

Businesses can also register to be listed on the above websites.

To learn more or get involved, subscribe to our Halve Our Waste e-Newsletter for tips and information on upcoming community events.