Operations

Consumers favor reusable approach when it comes to fast food containers

Photo by istock.com

April 28, 2021

More than half of fast food consumers are willing to embrace reusable and returnable containers as they're concerned about pollution and waste issues.

And most, (55%), would have a better opinion of a brand that eliminated styrofoam containers, according to an Adweek and Harris poll that surveyed more than 1,000 U.S. adults.

The survey assessed consumer views on proposed solutions to the impact of single-use fast food containers on the environment.

When it comes to QSR impact on the environment, 81% of those polled noted littering and pollution in their list of concerns and 80% cited animal safety.

Other concerns included water usage (70%), burning excess inventory or waste (69%), using synthetic or genetically modified ingredients or materials (69%), recycling of company materials or packaging (69%) and single-use materials like polystyrene, plastics or cleaning wipes (68%).

The survey also revealed 62% would have a better opinion of a brand that switched to recyclable packaging and utensils. Most consumers (55%) are willing to consider a reusable or returnable container program with millennials and Gen Z the most willing (77%).