Consumer Council｜4 out of 15 chain restaurants do not accept self-brought lunch boxes and “take away lunch boxes” but still charge packaging fees (with pictures)
Consumer Council: Many Chain Restaurants Do Not Accept Self-Brought Lunch Boxes
The government plans to introduce a new law on April 22, 2024. The law will start with a ban on specific disposable plastic cutlery in restaurants. Later, it will also ban disposable plastic cups and food containers for takeaway orders. To promote reusable items, the Environmental Protection Department launched the “Waste Box Restaurant” program in 2023.
Recently, the Consumer Council tested 15 restaurants, including “Tam Tai,” “Cafe de Coral,” and “Yoshinoya,” conducting 45 trials. Out of these trials, 31 (69%) were successful.
Success Rate of Self-Brought Lunch Boxes
In 45 tests, 31 (69%) were successful in obtaining takeout with their own lunch boxes. The success rate was higher at restaurants participating in the Waste Box program, with 87% (13 out of 15 trials), compared to 60% (18 out of 30 trials) at other chain restaurants. Most testers were satisfied with the food’s appearance, temperature, and cleanliness, while nearly 90% praised the customer service. However, about 70% felt restaurant staff could improve on offering help regarding self-brought lunch boxes.
Restaurants That Do Not Accept Self-Brought Lunch Boxes
Out of 45 trials, 14 were unsuccessful. “Cafe de Coral” staff stated they do not allow customers to bring their own containers and were not entirely helpful when questioned. “Yikong Noodles” claimed to accept self-brought boxes but did not uphold this during testing. “Ichigo Noodles” later confirmed it does not accept personal containers and corrected its website. “Yoshinoya” also refused outside lunch boxes but offered a good alternative to eat-in and suggested transferring food to personal containers.
Challenges During Busy Periods
Even when restaurants allow self-brought lunch boxes, they may not accommodate all requests, especially during busy times. Some restaurants noted delays due to the separation of cashier and pickup points. For instance, at “Maxim’s MX,” a tester missed the pickup window, and their food was packed in a takeaway box. Consumers should hand their lunch boxes to staff promptly after ordering. If a lunch box is too small, some restaurants may not allow customers to take leftovers.
Packaging Fees Still Apply
Many customers expect to waive packaging fees when using their own lunch boxes. However, tests revealed that some restaurants automatically charge these fees for takeout. While some restaurants refunded these fees after issues were pointed out, others charged based on meal requirements. Some restaurants did not charge fees during tests but often reminded testers to bring their own cups and bags during their next visit.
No Discounts for Self-Brought Lunch Boxes
Currently, no restaurant offers discounts for using personal containers. Among the Waste Box restaurants, only a few participate in the Environmental Protection Department’s incentive programs.
Recommendations for Restaurants and Consumers
- Restaurants should allow patrons to use their own lunch boxes with clear policies that address food safety and operations.
- Restaurants ought to display clear guidelines in-store, on websites, and social media to enhance compliance.
- Staff training should strengthen understanding and cooperation regarding consumer lunch boxes.
- Consumers must understand restaurant policies on bringing lunch boxes and choose appropriately sized ones.
- Consumers should ensure their containers are clean and promptly given to staff to avoid misunderstandings about fees.
The rising use of disposable lunch boxes harms the environment. Proper measures from both restaurants and consumers can help mitigate waste and promote sustainability.