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Andrea Cayuela

Busting misconceptions about reuse in the takeaway industry

At Muuse, we are dedicated to making reuse second nature in the F&B space. This means making it as simple and seamless as possible, even making it the default option, so people don't have to think about their decisions. It’s not only about changing habits but, most importantly, embedding reuse into our systems.


sustainable coffee cup starbucks

Let's debunk some common myths that might be holding your business back from adopting reuse as a service. 


1. I can keep using single-use plastic, as it is recyclable

Reality: Only a tiny fraction of plastic actually gets recycled.


Did you know that despite our best efforts to recycle, the majority of plastic waste ends up in landfills, incinerators, or as pollutants in our environment? There are 7 types of plastics, identified by 7 common recycling symbols, and one of them is simply “other! Only a few of these can be recycled- only about 9% of it, and even those that can be recycled have very low collection rates. Additionally, in the food and beverage industry, plastics used for takeaway often get contaminated with grease and food residues, making them difficult to recycle. This shows that we cannot rely solely on recycling to solve the waste crisis.


2. Reusable packaging isn't good for the planet as it requires constant cleaning

Reality: Reusable packaging, when used repeatedly, has a significantly lower environmental impact.


Reusable packaging is designed to be used multiple times throughout its lifecycle. Each reuse reduces its overall environmental impact, especially when compared to single-use items, which require resource extraction, manufacturing, and disposal after just a short use. An independent study conducted by Unravel Carbon of the Muuse platform shows that reusables save 80% of emissions compared to single-use packaging.



3. Reusable packaging is inconvenient for customers

Reality: With the right systems in place, reusables can be just as convenient as single-use items.


While it’s true that some customers might find reusables less convenient initially, many are actively seeking better, more sustainable choices, especially younger generations who base their purchasing decisions on sustainability. At Muuse, we've developed a system with convenient return bins at points of sale, matching the ease of single-use disposables. This system encourages customers to return and reuse packaging effortlessly and without the normal pile of waste created by single-use containers. 


4. Reusable packaging is not cost-effective for businesses

Reality: Reusables can be cost-competitive with single-use materials like compostables.


Cost is a crucial aspect of business decisions.  The evidence shows that reusables beat single-use across different categories, including cost savings of an average between 3,000-22,000 USD for SMEs when switching to reuse. At Muuse, we strive to ensure our reusable solutions are comparable in cost to other single-use options like compostable or biodegradable packaging. By reducing waste management expenses and improving sustainability, reusables offer significant cost benefits in the long run.  


5. The hygiene of reuse

Reality: Reusable packaging can be just as clean, if not cleaner, than single-use disposables.


Do you ever worry if the fork at a restaurant is truly clean? Probably not. Reusable items can meet high hygiene standards through rigorous cleaning and sanitizing processes. We follow national standards and guidelines for cleaning in every market we operate in (Singapore, Hong Kong, Canada and US), ensuring that reusables are safe and hygienic whether they are cleaned in a restaurant or at a specialized facility. Learn more about the hygiene of reuse in our article. 


6. Packaging waste is solely the responsibility of cafes and restaurants

Reality: A circular approach involves governments, businesses, and consumers.


While we encourage cafes and restaurants to use better solutions, solving packaging waste requires a holistic approach. Governments and large businesses need to provide the infrastructure to support sustainable practices and protect resources. It's about thinking circularly from resource extraction to disposal.


7. Implementing reuse will disrupt my daily operations

Reality: With the right support, the transition to reusables can be smooth and beneficial.


Any change can lead to disruption, but it's essential to consider the long-term benefits. At Muuse, we work hard to make the transition to reusables as smooth as possible by providing collateral, training, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to all stakeholders. This helps integrate reusables seamlessly into your daily operations, improving workflow, customer satisfaction, and your brand’s sustainability image.


8. Biodegradable plastics are the perfect replacement

Reality: The term "biodegradable" can be misleading and isn't always a simple substitute.


The term "biodegradable" can be misleading, as everything ultimately biodegrades. It's essential to look for certifications to ensure that materials are genuinely compostable. Most countries lack the infrastructure to properly collect and compost biodegradable plastics, leading them to end up in landfills. They can also generate more emissions than regular plastic during production. While there is potential in compostables, they are not a straightforward replacement for single-use plastics.


9. Most reusable packaging stays at home unused or gets lost

Reality: Our system ensures a 98%+ return rate for reusable packaging.


At Muuse, we ensure high return rates by tagging each item with a QR code, providing accountability and tracking. This system encourages people to return the items within 30 days, reducing wastage and incentivizing returns. Our approach ensures that reusable packaging is effectively utilized, supporting a sustainable circular economy.


10. Big brands lose their identity by switching to reusable packaging

Reality: Reusables can be a powerful branding tool.


Many leading brands are embracing sustainability without sacrificing their unique identity. We work with brands like Starbucks and the municipality of Banff in Canada, to provide branded reusable solutions, helping them address waste issues and achieve sustainability goals. Reusables can enhance your brand's image and demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility.


Reuse myths busted?

At Muuse, we’re committed to making reuse second nature by embedding it into our daily systems. We hope to help your takeaway business embrace reusables by addressing common myths, simplifying your workflow, improving customer satisfaction, reducing costs and environmental impact, and enhancing your brand's sustainability image.


Want to implement reuse in your business?



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