KFC's New Reusable Side Container Honored with 2010 Greener Package Award

KFC's new reusable side container, believed to be a fast-food first, was recently honored as a winner in the 2010 Greener Package Awards. Introduced in May, the containers will be in KFC stores nationwide by early 2011.

Oct 1 2010 --- KFC restaurants across the country are introducing what’s believed to be the fast food industry’s first consumer-reusable food container and people are taking note. The container was recently honored as a winner in the 2010 Greener Package Awards. Initially introduced in five markets beginning in May of this year, plans call for them to be available nationally at KFC restaurants by early 2011.

KFC's new reusable side container, believed to be a fast-food first, was recently honored as a winner in the 2010 Greener Package Awards. Introduced in May, the containers will be in KFC stores nationwide by early 2011. (Photo: Business Wire)

“Through research, we found that consumers prefer reusable containers because it gives them control of how the item is reused or disposed of after purchase,” said Susan Miles, KFC Engineering Manager. “Our research also showed that 60 percent of consumers keep a reusable container for at least six weeks.”

The introduction of the container is just one element of a larger packaging initiative the country’s largest chicken restaurant chain is undertaking. Paper serving boxes are also replacing plastic plates as part of KFC’s plan to reduce its use of nonrenewable resources and to eventually eliminate foam packaging from its restaurants.

“We believe this is the first meaningful introduction of reusable food containers in the fast food industry. By the end of this year, KFC U.S. will reduce foam packaging use by 62 percent and reduce total plastic use by 17 percent,” said Megan Isaac, Senior Marketing Manager for KFC. “We appreciate our customers’ passion for doing their part to help us meet our ‘Reuse, Renew, Rejoice’ goals.”