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South Australia has implemented a pioneering ban on plastic fish-shaped soy sauce bottles commonly used with takeaway sushi.
This regulatory move, effective from September 1, 2025, prohibits restaurants across the state from providing these small, decorative containers to customers.
The ban targets containers holding less than 30 milliliters with lids or stoppers, including rectangular packaging, citing their significant environmental harm.
Authorities highlight that these tiny bottles are often lost, blown away, or washed into waterways, where marine animals mistake them for food, causing fatal impacts.
The state's Environment Protection Authority enforces the ban with penalties ranging from warnings to prosecutions.
Restaurants are encouraged to replace these bottles with larger refillable condiment containers or single-use alternatives like sachets, squeezable packs, or compostable vessels to mitigate environmental damage.
The ban aligns with South Australia's broader commitment to combat plastic pollution, which began in 2009 with banning single-use plastic bags and has progressively expanded to include items like plastic cutlery, straws, balloon sticks, and Q-tips.
Despite challenges delaying certain measures, such as producer-applied stickers on fresh produce, the state continues to set comprehensive standards.
This initiative sets an example for plastic waste reduction efforts and improving marine ecosystem health in Australia and beyond.