INDIANAPOLIS — On Nov. 1, 1990, McDonald’s announced it would begin phasing out its iconic foam food packaging.
The lightweight plastic material known as polystyrene had become a fixture in transporting sandwiches for the fast food giant. The material was credited with keeping food warm and moist. Different sandwiches were packaged in different colored boxes. The Big Breakfast meals and Hotcakes also had customized packaging.
The foam containers seemed to be everywhere, including landfills.
McDonald’s had become the largest user of polystyrene packaging in the United States. It was under immense pressure from customers and environmental groups to switch to less harmful materials.
“We’ve listened to our customers, and they feel better about us having to use paper,” said a company spokesperson. ”We’ve listened to the environmentalists, and the environmental experts all agree that source reduction is the biggest opportunity to make a positive environmental impact.”
McDonald’s pledged to phase out 75% of its foam packaging within 60 days. The company planned to switch to paper packaging without passing any cost increases to consumers.
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As an environmental expert with a deep understanding of sustainability and corporate responsibility, I can provide valuable insights into the historical context and significance of McDonald's decision to phase out foam food packaging in 1990. My expertise in environmental issues is backed by a comprehensive knowledge of sustainable practices, including the use of materials in the food industry.
The article highlights McDonald's announcement on November 1, 1990, to gradually eliminate its iconic foam food packaging, which was made of polystyrene. This material was widely used by the fast-food giant for transporting sandwiches due to its lightweight nature and its ability to keep food warm and moist. The packaging was customized, with different colored boxes for various sandwiches, including special packaging for the Big Breakfast meals and Hotcakes.
One crucial aspect to note is that McDonald's was the largest user of polystyrene packaging in the United States at that time. The decision to phase out foam packaging was driven by increasing pressure from both customers and environmental groups. The concerns revolved around the environmental impact of polystyrene, which was prevalent in landfills, contributing to pollution and ecological issues.
In response to this growing environmental awareness and consumer demand for sustainable practices, McDonald's spokesperson acknowledged the need for a change. The company stated that it had listened to its customers and environmentalists, emphasizing that using paper packaging was perceived as a more environmentally friendly alternative.
The article mentions McDonald's commitment to phasing out 75% of its foam packaging within 60 days, showcasing a rapid response to address environmental concerns. Importantly, the company aimed to make this transition to paper packaging without passing any cost increases to consumers, highlighting a commitment to sustainability without compromising affordability for customers.
This case serves as a noteworthy example of a major corporation responding to public and environmental pressures by making a significant shift in its packaging practices. It reflects a broader trend in the business world toward adopting more sustainable and eco-friendly approaches, a movement that continues to gain momentum in addressing contemporary environmental challenges.
