If you ever asked a barista to fill your reusable cup and got “the look,” then you feel our pain. Making reuse the rule (vs. the exception) is more than just the right thing to do, here in California it’s your legal right to refuse a single-use disposable, and request your clean reusable container is filled.
The Law
California Assembly Bill 619 (AB 619) was passed into law July 2019, allowing reusable containers provided or returned to the food facility or vendor to be filled by either the employee or the owner of the container. Reusable containers must be clean, and also designed and constructed for reuse. AB 619 requires food facilities to either isolate the clean consumer-owned containers from the serving surface, or sanitize the serving surface after each filling.
Bottom line: They can’t refuse it if it’s clean.
Better for You
Replacing single-use with reusables means less trash to deal with, no plastic forever-chemicals leaching into your hot drinks or food, no microplastics. Your drinks stay hot/cold longer, taste better, are more portable, with fewer leaks/spills. With reusables, you’re always ready, and it just feels good.
So how do you conquer reuse resistance (a.k.a. the look)? To reduce hassles and ensure a smooth, eco-friendly experience:
DO
Be prepared; always be ready with a clean cup.
Keep it in a place you’ll remember; rethink your routine “keys, phone, wallet, reusable.”
Know your cup’s capacity (e.g. 16 oz., 20 oz.).
Communicate clearly at beginning of your order that you’d like to use your personal cup.
If ordering online for pickup, add a note in “customization” and request “personal cup.”
Remove the lid; hand them the container without the lid so it’s easier, more hygienic, and prevents the lid from getting lost.
Smile! Say please and thank you.
DON’T
Leave it at home.
Be nasty with a dirty cup; baristas can only accept a clean cup.
Keep the lid on; removing the lid requires an extra step in service, and if they have to put it down, they also have to sanitize that surface.
Be defensive or react to negative attitudes.
Worry; most baristas are happy to accommodate, and some places even offer a small discount or bonus for your efforts.
Why Did They Do That?
We’ve seen it too; sometimes they put your beverage in a disposable cup to fill your personal cup. Couldn’t they use a reusable to do that? Every business is different, and they might need a policy revision, training, procedure, or incentive to follow the law. Consider leaving a suggestion for the manager / owner, or leave a review online.
Flex Your Buying Power
If a business doesn’t welcome your reusable, find one that does, or that participates in a reusable container exchange program. Share your experience; post positive reviews and comments to help build community support for reuse-friendly businesses.
Savor the Moment
If the restaurant or café serves dine-in orders with reusable service ware, stay in and enjoy the experience. Bring your reusable container to take away any leftovers; fill it yourself and you’re good to go.