The environment is a major consideration for operators, especially amidst rising costs and economic challenges facing hospitality. There are many small ways to implement change that can have a significant impact and help minimise waste. From dehydrating or vacuum packing food to extend its life; improving stock rotation, so the oldest ingredients are used up first; or switching to eco-friendlier disposables. These are cost-effective solutions that appeal to the more eco-conscious consumer. 

As one of the UK’s largest catering equipment suppliers, Nisbets is committed to sustainability. Recent initiatives include removing over 40 tonnes of plastic from our product packaging, decreasing energy use by 60% and prioritising repairability, with spare parts generally available seven years after the discontinuation of an own-label product. 

Fiesta’s Recyclable Rectangular Food Containers are ideal for holding everything from paninis and crisps to pasta bakes. The PP lining makes them leak-proof, and suitable for hot-holding units (for five minutes at 120°C) and freezer-safe (up to -20°C). With a distinctive shape and sturdy structure, they add a stylish touch to grab-and-go offerings, especially when used with the compatible paper, PP or PET lids. 

Alternatively, quick-serve outlets are turning to bagasse for hot and cold items. Fiesta bagasse containers are also heat and water resistant, providing flexibility when preparing, holding and serving. And as a compostable material made entirely from waste sugarcane, it can become nutrient-rich compost within 12 weeks of being sent to a commercial composting facility. 

For beverages, Fiesta offers a selection of cups for speedy drinks. The Recyclable Ripple Wall Coffee Cups have a stylish, textured exterior which delivers excellent insulation and enables the cup to be used without a sleeve. Fiesta also offers a selection of recyclable lids and the rolled lip design ensures these fit tightly to prevent leakages.

In terms of iced lattes and soft drinks, the compostable PLA plastic cups and compatible domed lids attractively display beverages, while providing a convenient takeaway solution – perfect for desserts, fruit and yoghurts, which can be quickly selected from display fridges.  

For managing waste, the new Hygiplas Day of the Week Removable Label Starter Kit is ideal with labels that are colour-coded by day, helping staff quickly identify what needs using first and making it easier to rotate stock accordingly. The durable metal dispenser makes it simple to select the relevant label, while preventing the soiling of other stickers in the set. After use, the labels dissolve easily in water, preventing unsightly and potentially unhygienic residue, leaving the container clean for future use.