🇨🇳🍽️ China’s “Clean Plate Campaign” Makes Wasting Food Illegal! 🚫🥢

China – It’s Illegal to Waste Food Under the “Clean Plate Campaign”

In China, leaving too much food on your plate isn’t just frowned upon — it’s illegal! Thanks to the “Clean Plate Campaign,” wasting food can land you in serious trouble.

The Law Explained

Under the Anti-Food Waste Law enacted in 2021, restaurants, individuals, and influencers can face fines or penalties for encouraging or engaging in food waste.

Even “mukbang” videos — where people eat absurd amounts of food on camera — are restricted if they promote wasteful eating habits.

The Origins of the Law

China has faced food security issues due to rapid population growth, natural disasters, and import reliance.

In 2020, President Xi Jinping launched the “Clean Plate Campaign” to curb gluttony and raise awareness about sustainable consumption.

It was also a reaction to reports of 18 million tons of food being wasted annually in urban China alone.

Is the Law Still in Effect Today?

Absolutely!

Restaurants may charge customers for excessive leftovers.
Fines up to 100,000 yuan (about $15,000) can be imposed on businesses that encourage food waste.
Individuals can even be publicly criticized or penalized for irresponsible consumption.

Influencers beware — food challenge content that leads to waste is banned!