New Jersey's 'Skip the Stuff' law takes effect, changing how restaurants hand out plastic utensils
The measure is designed to reduce plastic waste and cut down on unnecessary disposable items that often end up in landfills.
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New Jersey residents ordering takeout or delivery may notice a change starting today. Plastic utensils, napkins, straws, and condiment packets will no longer automatically be included with orders unless customers specifically ask for them.
The state's new "Skip the Stuff" law is now in effect, requiring restaurants to provide single-use items only upon request. The measure is designed to reduce plastic waste and cut down on unnecessary disposable items that often end up in landfills.
At The Colonial Grill storefront in Jersey City, signs now alert customers to the new policy. Co-owner Kevin Valbuena said the adjustment could be challenging, particularly for food truck customers who expect utensils to come with their meals.
"We do ribeye's, top sirloin, steak and fries. You can't just eat that with your fingers," Valbuena said. "You've got to have a fork. You've got to have a knife if needed. Same with some condiments on the side."
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Valbuena added that his employees are also adapting to the change.
"Now people will know that they have to ask for it, at least to make it a little easier for us," he said. "But my team is getting accustomed to it."
According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the campaign aims to reduce plastic waste while potentially saving businesses thousands of dollars each year by limiting the number of disposable items distributed.
Not all customers are on board with the new requirement.
"This is new, so I've got to get used to it," one customer said. "But it should come automatically. It should be a courtesy."
The law does include several exceptions. Schools and hospitals are exempt, while food courts have until 2028 to comply. Online ordering platforms must also default to "no utensils" unless customers choose to add them to their order.
