Does McDonald's charge for paper take-away bags?

McDonald's has a legal obligation to implement the 10p carrier bag levies where these apply (Wales and Scotland). In normal times, customers have the choice of paying for a bag, having no bag or using their own - although we ask them to make sure it is clean, hygienic and suitable for carrying hot food. The charge does not apply to bags containing only part-packaged food (which includes Fries, Hash Browns, Donuts and Dessert Muffins).

However, due to enhanced hygiene protocols that we have implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic, we have taken the decision to hand over all food products to our customers in paper bags. This helps to reduce the potential touchpoints between our crew and our customers as food items are exchanged. Whilst this is not ideal, and we will look to return to offering our customers the choice when we can, we have prioritised the health and safety of our customers and our crew at this time.

All profit from the levy go to Ronald McDonald House Charities U.K., an independent charity that provides free 'home away from home' accommodation for families with children in hospital. You can find information about McDonald's environmental policies and practices here.