• It is traders' obligation to provide product alternatives made of other materials
• It is important for consumers to know that the paid amount for the used disposable plastic cups and cans is indicated on the receipt separately from the price of the food and drink.

From the beginning of the year, retailers who use single-use plastic products to pack food, including drinks and ready meals, are obliged to offer them to consumers for 0,10 BGN per cup and 0,25 BGN per can, marking an increase by 0,05 BGN compared to last year.

This requirement came into force at the beginning of 2023, according to the Ordinance on reduction of the impact of certain plastic products.

The Ordinance foresees that the price of used plastic cups and food cans will increase gradually over the next years until 2027. Plastic consumables will be on the market until they run out. There is no deadline for a total ban, as it will not be applicable for some products. The aim of the legislation is to reduce consumption as much as possible.

It is the responsibility of business operators (retail shops, venues for consuming drinks, fast food outlets) to provide alternative options, such as reusable containers and cups and products made of other materials - paper, aluminium, bamboo, glass containers. It should be noted that currently food legislation does not allow bringing own containers to the point of sale.

In addition, information signs about the need to reduce the use of plastic products, their harmful impact on the environment and the alternative options available at the retail venue must be prominently displayed. Citizens can request such information at the point of sale in order to be directed towards alternative and affordable reusable products.

It is also important for consumers to know that the amount for used single-use plastic products is indicated on the receipt separately from the price of the food and drink concerned, and they can require traders to comply with this obligation.

The number of business operators that are expected to take action to reduce the consumption of single-use plastic products cannot be clearly identified, as not all restaurants or drinking establishments use single-use products. According to the National Tourist Register, the total number of fast-food establishments where products covered by the Ordinance are certainly used is over 4 700.