Foam Food Containers Reach Full Virginia Ban in 2026

Alexandria, VA – July 1, 2026, marks the full implementation of Virginia’s statewide ban on expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam food service containers—commonly known as Styrofoam™—for all food vendors, including restaurants, grocery stores, food trucks, caterers, and more. This landmark policy, passed by the Virginia General Assembly in 2021, represents a major step toward reducing plastic pollution and safeguarding Virginia’s environment for future generations. Businesses are encouraged to prepare NOW to ensure a smooth transition by the July 1, 2026, deadline.

Clean Virginia Waterways (CVW), a Virginia Beach-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to protecting the Commonwealth’s waterways, has developed a comprehensive digital toolkit to support businesses in transitioning to sustainable, healthier, and cost-competitive alternatives. Created in collaboration with Virginia Green Travel and CVW’s Expanded Polystyrene Phaseout Workgroup, the toolkit includes ready-to-use digital designs, stickers, and promotional materials that allow businesses to proudly announce their foam-free status and engage customers in the change.

“The phase-out of foam takeout containers protects consumers from harmful chemicals that can leach into food and drinks, while preventing these persistent pollutants from littering our beaches, harming wildlife, and contaminating our waterways,” said Joseph Barnes, Marine Debris Prevention Specialist at Clean Virginia Waterways.

As businesses shift away from EPS foam, CVW strongly encourages the adoption of plastic-free alternatives—such as compostable clamshells—rather than switching to other single-use plastics like non-recyclable and toxic black plastic to-go containers. Many high-quality, eco-friendly options are now available at prices comparable to traditional plastic alternatives.

About Clean Virginia Waterways: Clean Virginia Waterways is an award-winning nonprofit organization working statewide to prevent litter, reduce marine debris, and promote stewardship of Virginia’s rivers, bays, and ocean through education, research, and community action. Learn more at www.cleanvirginiawaterways.org.