Guangdong mandates sealed packaging for takeout orders

Consumers in Guangdong will have the right to reject delivered meals if the packaging is unsealed or its closure is damaged or shows signs of having been opened, under new rules set to take effect Oct. 1.

A food delivery rider picks up an order at a restaurant in Shenzhen. Chen Yu

Delivery riders will also be allowed to refuse an order if a restaurant has not secured it properly or if the food-safety seal is already damaged.

The rules require restaurants and other food-service operators to close meals securely before dispatch, whether they handle deliveries themselves or use a third-party service. Once opened, the packaging must not be restorable to its original condition, making any interference readily apparent.

Businesses must also use food containers, tableware and packing materials that meet food-safety standards.

The requirements are contained in Article 19 of the newly adopted Guangdong provincial regulation on the protection of consumer rights and interests, which will take effect Oct. 1.

If a restaurant or delivery platform fails to handle a problem properly, consumers may lodge a complaint through the 12345 government service hotline, the 12315 consumer-protection hotline or other channels provided by market regulators, according to Guo Yuhua, deputy director of Guangdong’s market regulation authority.

Consumers should retain relevant evidence, including screenshots of their orders, payment records and photographs showing the condition of the packaging.

Guo said the authority would coordinate implementation of the provincial requirements with national rules governing the food-safety responsibilities of online catering businesses.