Many takeout containers are made from harmful plastics, but a growing number of cities, restaurants, and delivery services are exploring reusable alternatives that aim to cut waste and reduce toxic exposure.
Michael J. Coren reports for The Washington Post.
In short:
- Food delivery packaging contributes significantly to plastic pollution, with less than 6% of plastic effectively recycled in the U.S. and many containers coated with toxic PFAS chemicals.
- Exposure to chemicals like BPA and phthalates, common in food packaging, has been linked to obesity, infertility, neurodevelopmental harm, and even heart disease and cancer.
- Some cities and businesses, such as DoorDash pilots and local programs like D.C.’s To Go Green, are adopting reusable container systems to lower costs and environmental impact.
Key quote:
“In every pilot, we end up with very, very small percentage return rates.”
— Fay AlQassar, head of delivery sustainability at Uber Eats
Why this matters:
The single-use containers that keep your takeout warm often contain bisphenols, phthalates, and PFAS, which have been linked to hormone disruption, reproductive harm, cancer, and developmental issues, particularly in children. These chemicals migrate into food, especially hot or fatty meals. Less than a tenth of the packaging is recycled, and most of it ends up in landfills or the ocean, where it can take centuries to break down. Microplastics have now been found in human blood, lungs, placentas, and even testicles. The daily convenience of plastic-laden takeout is leaving behind a long trail of pollution and potential health risks.
Related:
