Packaging & Sustainable Living

Monaco Restricts Takeaway Plastics: What the New Rule Covers

Since 1 September, Monaco has restricted certain single-use takeaway containers. The exemptions show why using less plastic does not automatically mean eliminating plastic altogether.

By Kochzauber editorial team · Published · Updated

Takeaway meals in brown containers beside a reusable glass box; the materials cannot be legally assessed from the image alone.
Takeaway meals in brown containers beside a reusable glass box; the materials cannot be legally assessed from the image alone.

In short: Since 1 September, Monaco has restricted certain single-use takeaway containers. The exemptions show why using less plastic does not automatically mean eliminating plastic altogether.

Which containers are meant

The Ministerial Decree No. 2026-129 concerns certain plastic disposable containers for ready-to-eat meals on site or for take-away. Food must be edible without further preparation. They are packaged at or for immediate sale or have a pre-packaged consumption date of no more than three days from packaging.

Thus, the rule describes a particular section of the food supply. It is not a general ban on all plastic packaging and is valid in Monaco. An identical new rule for German restaurants cannot be derived from this.

Exceptions to the message

Excluded are lids and closures; certain plastic coatings, including PE and PLA, are allowed. Also necessary containers for fresh, cut, unprocessed fruit are excluded insofar as they maintain freshness and hygiene or prevent food waste.

Our classification: A bowl can be allowed under this rule and still contain plastic in a coating. Whoever makes a headline "Now everything is plastic-free" overlooks this difference. Nor does the decree alone answer how often a replacement packaging is actually reused or what environmental balance it has over its entire life course.

Reusable works by using and returning

For everyday life in Germany, the Umweltbundesamt provides a practical approach: use your own refillable containers or use offered reusable systems. Frequent reuse is crucial so that the higher production effort of a reusable packaging can pay off. For deposit systems, the timely return is part of this. A collection of empty loan trays in the kitchen cabinet does not keep the containers in circulation. (Source)

Our planning tip: Check before the next order, where the box can be returned and whether this place is on your way anyway. After the meal, determine the return, for example, together with the next purchase. For your own can you should check in advance at the plant whether and how it can be filled.

A useful lunch routine instead of new container mountains

If you take your own food, you can first work with the containers that are already available. Consider whether you usually transport salads, bread or hot dishes. Only then can you see what shape and size makes sense. Note the manufacturer's instructions for food contact, cleaning, microwave and hot food; not every vessel is intended for every use.

With our lunch dishes and one-pot recipes you will find ideas for the meal itself. Storage and transport must fit the specific dish. The new rule from Monaco is an opportunity to rethink packaging habits – no reason to exchange all existing, suitable reusable containers.

Sources and status

Information status: 6 September 2026. Overview for consumers, no company legal advice.

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