McDonald’s Japan to replace paper straws with rPET strawless lids

According to reports from Japanese news outlets, McDonald’s Japan will discontinue the use of paper straws across approximately 3,000 restaurants nationwide, following customer feedback on their performance.

Beginning 19 November, the fast-food chain plans to introduce redesigned cup lids that remove the need for straws altogether. The new lids, produced from recycled plastic derived from used PET bottles, enable customers to drink directly from the cup while minimising the risk of spills and leaks — even for takeaway and delivery orders.

McDonald’s Japan first introduced paper straws in 2022 as part of its wider sustainability strategy. However, the company now says the shift to the updated lid design aims to balance environmental goals with consumer convenience.

In addition, the brand will replace the plastic bags used for takeaway orders with alternatives made from 95% plant-based bioplastic. These new bags were initially trialled at a restaurant in Nagasaki earlier this year and are expected to be rolled out nationwide from November.

The move follows similar sustainability-driven packaging updates across Japan’s food and beverage sector, including Starbucks Coffee Japan’s recent transition from paper to plant-based bioplastic straws.