Are Bubble Tea Straws Recyclable?

Nearly all bubble tea straws are recyclable, including those made from plastic. Let's delve deeper into the various types of bubble tea straws:

Are Plastic Bubble Tea Straws Recyclable?

For the last few years, many governments around the world have been banning single-use plastic straws for the environmental harm they can cause. The straws are typically made from polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) which is often used for plastic bubble tea cups.

However, if a plastic straw is designed to be reusable for multiple uses, which nearly all plastic straws are, and also labelled to be reusable, then this is permitted as per the The Environmental Protection (Plastic Straws, Cotton Buds and Stirrers) (England) Regulations Part 2020.

While not all recycling facilities will accept straws due to their size and shape, the straws are inherently made from a recyclable material.

Paper Bubble Tea Straws

The reduction of plastic straw usage has caused most retailers to offer single-use paper straws instead, as part of their drive to aid compostability too.

Paper straws have divided opinion as people occasionally struggle to puncture the seal of the cup without the right technique, however when used correctly these straws are sturdy enough to break through plastic seals, and widely available, in particular for their ability for customisation.

Silicone Bubble Tea Straws

Silicone straws are often used for their ability to be folded or stored inside a reusable container. If your business offers a form of reusable cup scheme this can be a good choice, but you will need to remember that these straws cannot easily puncture the seal of a bubble tea cup, so you will likely need to use lids with holes in them, such as our domed lids, or a folding lid.

Stainless Steel Bubble Tea Straws

Stainless steel straws are often chosen for their durability, ease of cleaning and resistance to microbiological buildup. You will need to ensure the tip is sharp enough such that it can pierce through the sealing film but not too sharp as to cause a risk of personal injury.

If you are a bubble tea shop, you could probably offer incentives or discounts to those using their own reusable straws, promoting sustainable behaviour and lowering your inventory cost.

Bamboo Bubble Tea Straws

Known for its positive environmental impact, and speed of regrowth, bamboo straws offer a lightweight, organic alternative. We are big fans of bamboo straws!

Experts in all things bubble tea

At Taipec we're passionate about bubble tea and helping people to run a bubble tea business. If you're looking to open a bubble tea shop, or to serve bubble tea in your existing business, get in touch with us, and we'd be happy to walk you through.