Foam-Free Food Containers & Packaging

Better Packaging Choices for a Cleaner Hampton Roads

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, commonly referred to as Styrofoam™, is being phased out for food service containers in Virginia. These single-use foam containers are difficult to recycle, harmful when littered and can break apart into small pieces that pollute parks, streets, waterways and natural spaces.

Whether you’re a food service business preparing for the change or a resident looking to reduce single-use waste, going foam free is a simple way to support cleaner communities and healthier waterways.

Check out our Foam-Free Sample Kits!

Looking for resources outside Hampton Roads? Check out the Clean Virginia Waterways Foam-Free Program.

Virginia’s Foam Container Ban

Virginia is phasing out the use of EPS foam food service containers as part of a statewide effort to reduce litter and environmental impacts.

7.1.2025

Food vendors with 20 or more establishments must adhere to the new regulations.

7.1.2026

All food vendors are required to eliminate EPS foam containers, marking a significant step towards sustainability.

The transition provides an opportunity for businesses to explore packaging options that are safer, more sustainable and better for the environment.

Why EPS Foam is a Problem

EPS foam may be lightweight and convenient, but it can create long-term environmental and community impacts. Once used, foam food containers are difficult to manage, easy to litter and harmful when they break apart in the environment.

Recycling Challenges

EPS foam is not accepted for recycling in Hampton Roads. When placed in recycling bins, it can contaminate the recycling stream and create disposal challenges.

Explore Better Packaging Options

The good news is there are many practical alternatives to foam containers available today. Depending on your business needs, there are options that balance durability, cost and environmental benefits.

Popular alternatives include:

Paper-based containers and packaging
Plant-based and starch-based food containers
Recyclable aluminum and foil products
Reusable food service containers
Wooden utensils and accessories

Many of these products provide similar performance while reducing waste and environmental impacts.

Support the BYO-To-Go Movement

Reducing single-use waste goes beyond foam containers. Businesses can help minimize waste by encouraging customers to bring their own reusable containers for leftovers and takeout whenever possible.

Simple ways to participate:

Encourage customers to bring reusable to-go containers
Offer reusable dining options when practical
Provide straws and utensils only upon request
Promote waste reduction through signs and customer education
Choose reusable products whenever possible

Small changes can reduce waste, lower disposal costs and demonstrate your commitment to sustainability.

Try Before You Buy

Check Out Our Foam-Free Sample Kits

askHRgreen.org offers Hampton Roads food vendors free sample kits with foam-free alternative container options so you can test, compare, and find the right fit for your operation. Complete the form below to get your free customized kit!

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Recycling

Get practical recycling tips and use the recycling & disposal tool to find out what should be recycled, belongs in the trash or requires special disposal in your community.

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