Palacký University canteens have been introducing more economical and ecological takeaway meals since April. Returnable packaging will be available in all canteens, which can be used up to 400 times and thus replace the same number of disposable packaging. The deposit for a returnable REkrabička will be 80 CZK.
UP Accommodation and Dining Services (SKM) has heard the diner’s demand and in cooperation with the REkrabička and REkelímek project will offer meal dispensing for consumption outside of the canteen premises in returnable boxes, for which a deposit is paid. "With this step, we are trying to meet the needs of clients who want or have to eat our meals outside of the canteen, in addition they won‘t have to pay for disposable plastic packaging. We will offer disposable packaging until the stock runs out. At the same time, we are also solving the requirement to dispense food in one’s own boxes, which unfortunately hygiene regulations don‘t allow, despite intensive negotiations," explained Libor Kolář, the Head of SKM. However, the meals dispensed in the canteen are still intended for immediate consumption.
The REkrabička – just like the existing disposable packaging - will have to be pre-ordered in advance together with the food on the WebKredit website or mobile application Kredit. In the upper part of the menu, there will be options for returnable menu box (for first order) or replacement of a returnable menu box (if the diner brings a used menu box and gets the meal in a new one). You can return the menu box and get back the deposit of CZK 80 at SKM cash desks or FreshUPs, as well as at all other REkrabička partner locations. "The returned packaging just needs to be rinsed, but it mustn't be damaged other than normal wear and tear and shouldn’t contain old food residue or mould," pointed out Michal Adámek from the REkrabička and REkelímek project.
"Several Czech universities and many private companies are already using the REkrabička and REkelímek service, so we are glad that UP will join them. One of the goals of the UP Sustainable Development Strategy is to completely eliminate single-use packaging at UP, so that our students and employees learn to function without them, also in their own lives outside the university. As one of the leading Czech universities, we should set an example in these matters as well," added Zuzana Huňková, UP Sustainable Development Coordinator.
The REkrabička is made of highly durable and 100% recyclable polypropylene and also includes a sealing lid. You can safely heat food in it in the microwave (without a lid and on a medium setting) or wash it in the dishwasher. It’s manufactured in the Czech Republic.