McDonald's has replaced plastic with biodegradable alternatives

New Delhi: Hardcastle Restaurants Private Limited (HRPL), the Master Franchisee for McDonald’s restaurants in West and South India, has transitioned from plastic to eco-friendly and biodegradable alternatives for items used for guest packaging. HRPL has worked with its suppliers over the past many months and implemented sustainable solutions which enhance customer experience. It has already moved away from plastic in Maharashtra and key cities in Karnataka and is working on a plan for a market wide change over the coming months, the company said this in a statement.

McDonald’s now gives customers wooden cutlery (spoons, stirrers, knives and forks) instead of plastic ones. The plastic cups have been replaced by superior quality paper cups. The straws are either made of paper or other biodegradable materials that are derived from corn starch. In addition, HRPL is testing various alternatives to ensure the best experience to its customers.

“As the leader in the Quick Service Restaurant space in India, we are committed to using our scale for good and working towards finding sustainable solutions across our business.  This is in line with McDonald’s global vision of building a responsible business,” said Ranjit Paliath, Senior Vice President, Business Operations & Restaurant Enablement, HRPL.

While the restaurant chain has replaced products in its restaurants across key cities in Maharashtra and Karnataka, the company is working on alternative solutions for its delivery segment that can ensure safe and fresh food is delivered without spillage. In the meantime, restaurant associations have requested exemptions from the plastic ban for delivery and takeaway orders.