By purchasing reduced plastic products or frequenting zero-waste stores, a growing number of consumers are looking to support the environment by making conscious purchasing choices that help to minimize waste. Just Eat is an online food ordering and delivery service that is now taking steps to help both consumers and businesses alike cut down on the amount of plastic that is sent out with orders in the UK.
Just Eat is now testing out a pre-ticked box on its app and website, which makes it possible for consumers to "opt out of receiving plastic that they do not need," including single-use items like disposable cutlery, straws and sauce sachets.
As well as taking steps to minimize plastic waste, Just Eat is also getting involved in projects to find alternatives to single-use plastics. In partnership with Skipping Rocks Lab, Just Eat will be trialling seaweed-based sauce sachets that are edible, as well as able to break down entirely over the course of just six weeks.
Reduced Plastic Food Deliveries
Just Eat is Helping Consumers and Businesses Cut Down on Waste
Trend Themes
1. Reduced Plastic Products - Just Eat is testing a pre-ticked box on its app and website for consumers to opt out of receiving unnecessary plastic, creating an opportunity for businesses to offer reduced plastic alternatives.
2. Zero-waste Stores - Growing consumer interest in zero-waste stores presents an opportunity for businesses to tap into the demand for sustainable and environmentally-friendly options.
3. Alternative Packaging Materials - The partnership between Just Eat and Skipping Rocks Lab to trial seaweed-based sauce sachets highlights the potential for innovative and biodegradable packaging materials in the food delivery industry.
Industry Implications
1. Online Food Ordering and Delivery - Just Eat's initiative to reduce plastic waste in food deliveries presents an opportunity for other online food ordering and delivery platforms to follow suit.
2. Sustainable Packaging - The increased awareness around plastic waste creates an opportunity for the sustainable packaging industry to develop and provide eco-friendly alternatives.
3. Foodservice and Hospitality - The movement towards reduced plastic food deliveries opens up opportunities for foodservice and hospitality businesses to implement sustainable practices and appeal to eco-conscious consumers.