Foam Food Containers

What’s Changing

In 2021, Virginia passed a law that requires food vendors to stop using expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam products:

• Vendors with 20 or more locations must stop using EPS by July 1, 2025.

• All other food vendors must stop using EPS by July 1, 2026.

What Is EPS Foam

EPS—often called foam or by the brand name Styrofoam—is a non-recyclable material used in disposable cups, plates, containers, and other food packaging.

Why Ban EPS

EPS harms the environment and public health:

• It takes more than 500 years to break down in landfills.

• It blows easily out of trash cans and into streets and waterways

• It’s dangerous to wildlife.

• It contains styrene, which can be harmful to humans in large amounts.

Who Must Comply

Any business that serves prepared food must switch to safer alternatives. This includes:

• Restaurants

• Food trucks

• Caterers

• Grocery store salad bars and hot food sections

• Other food service providers

What To Use Instead

Replace EPS with eco-friendly options like:

• Reusable containers

• Recyclable plastics

• Recycled paper products

• Compostable materials

• Bamboo or wheat straw

• Foil or metal containers

Questions About Virginia’s Foam Ban?

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) does not enforce the EPS ban. The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) oversees the law and its enforcement.

For the Public

If you have questions or want to file a complaint about a business using foam containers, please visit the Foam Free Virginia website. Under the “Additional Resources” section, you’ll find contact information for the Litter and Recycling Managers who can help.

For Food Vendors

If you operate a food business and have questions about the ban—including possible exemptions—contact the Litter and Recycling Managers listed on the Foam Free Virginia website. They can provide guidance and help you understand what’s required.