Summary

While the state of Texas and the city of Austin generally support the use of reusable containers in many food service settings, specific limitations exist for mobile food units and temporary food establishments to maintain high standards of food safety.

For Refillable Beverage Containers

• Beverage is shelf-stable

• Design of the container allows for effective cleaning at the establishment or at home

• Facilities for rinsing the container prior to refilling are available at the establishment

• Container may only be used by the same consumer

• Container must be refilled either by the food employee or filled by the consumer if refilling is a contamination free process

For Refillable Food Containers

• Container must be designed and constructed to be reused.

• To prevent restaurants from giving customers a to-go container, customers will have to order food for dine in and then transfer to their own container.

City Resources, Including Rebates

• Austin, Texas - Code of Ordinances

• Austin Resource Recovery encouragement for reusables to reduce single-use plastics

• City of Austin Zero Waste Business Incentives and Rebates up to $3,000 for reusable dishware, including cups

• Austin Energy Commercial Kitchen Equipment Rebate up to $2,000 for dishwashers