We have an ocean-sized problem when it comes to the waste we generate eating food outside of restaurants. Jybe is here to help with that by allowing online reviews for the most eco-friendly restaurants. We developed an algorithm in our app that gathers the data needed to guide diners to restaurants making mindful packaging choices in their to-go ware and takeout boxes and trays.
How does a restaurant earn a 4-Turtle ranking on Jybe?
X No plastic
X No styrofoam
X No utensils unless requested
X No materials requiring an industrial composter to break down
What packaging should eco-friendly restaurants use?
✔ Reusables are always best, but a tough ask when it comes to carryout — we get it.
✔ Aluminum and glass, which are endlessly recyclable when clean and don’t become a health threat as they decompose.
✔ Paper boxes, wrappers and bags; and anything else that is naturally biodegradable like palm, bamboo or birch.
Things Jybe will get stricter on in the very near future:
Molded fiber bowls contain forever chemicals (PFAS). They are toxic, dangerous and irresponsible to use. It’s hard for the untrained eye to know the difference between a paper container and one that’s fiber coated in PFAS (hint: if it’s rustic looking but holds any type of liquid, it ain’t good). We are prioritizing education on this item and waiting to grade down for them — but it’s coming.
There isn’t a great solution out there currently to replace the tiny plastic ramekins that hold sauces and toppings, but we are on the hunt. When an alternative is widely available, we will rate down for not using it.
Plastic-lined kraft paper boxes are required to transport foods in some instances, but often people use them even when they’re not necessary. We plan on promoting the right and wrong uses, and rating down for unnecessary usage. Hint: if the inside of the box is shiny, it ain’t good.