A new addition to the food code will give food establishments the option to use customers refillable reusable containers, but must have a plan approved by the Local Health Department to ensure food safety.
Under an approved plan, customers may refill visibly clean containers if they are:
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Refilling non-ready-to-eat, bulk and packaged foods
- Refilling with ready-to-eat foods if dispensed through a chute or other system that protects against contamination
- Refilling with any food if done by the food employee using a contamination-free process
Operators who want the option to use refillables under an approved plan can submit a Refilling Consumer-owned Containers application here. Be sure to connect with your local public health department for additional guidance and resources.
