Say hello to reusables – and goodbye to single-use!

Soon you’ll be able to use reusable containers at all our dining halls!Since May 2025, we’ve been testing reusable containers at eateries at UiO, and the feedback has been very positive.

From May 5–8, reusable containers will be introduced at the following locations:

  • Frederikke Eatery
  • Eilert Eatery
  • Helga Eatery
  • Sverdrup Eatery
  • Ole-Johan Eatery
  • Medica Eatery

Throughout May and June, reusable containers will also be rolled out to the remaining eateries at UiO, as well as at OsloMet, KHiO, Urtegata (Kristiania), and NMH.

 

Why use reusable containers when taking your food to go?

In 2025, around 350,000 single-use containers were used for buffets at our eateries. We want to reduce the use of single-use packaging, which is why we are testing reusable containers at several dining halls.

We believe the dining experience is better with a reusable container. Additionally, it is airtight and can withstand being carried in a backpack if you don't finish your meal immediately.

Try it yourself!

Advantages of using reusable containers:

  • Food stays fresher in reusable containers
  • Reusable container = a container that can be used multiple times
  • The lid fits securely on the container and can be carried in a backpack without spilling
  • Using reusable packaging reduces waste, which would otherwise be incinerated and contribute to direct local greenhouse gas emissions*
  • Soiled paper/bagasse cannot be recycled as paper, as food and grease are not desired in paper sorting, and therefore must go in residual waste. In other words, it is not a circular product

Source: Oslo Municipality

How to use a reusable container

Choose

  • Take a container and choose what you want from the buffet

Purchase

  • At the checkout, select Buffet flergangsboks or Grønn buffet flergangsboks, and add Pant (deposit) NOK 44 

Enjoy

  • Enjoy your meal.

Return

  • Press the green ring just above the return slot

  • Place the box in the machine

  • Tap your card

The NOK 44 deposit is automatically refunded to your account.

Where can I find the reusable container?

From May 5–8, reusable containers will be introduced at the following locations:

  • Frederikke Eatery
  • Eilert Eatery
  • Helga Eatery
  • Sverdrup Eatery
  • Ole-Johan Eatery
  • Medica Eatery

Throughout May and June, reusable containers will also be rolled out to the remaining dining halls at UiO, as well as at OsloMet, KHiO, Urtegata (Kristiania), and NMH.

Where can I return the reusable container?

The reusable container should be returned in the green deposit machine located at the dining hall where you borrowed the container.

Between May 5–8, you’ll find the deposit machines at the following locations:

  • Frederikke Eatery
  • Eilert Eatery
  • Helga Eatery
  • Sverdrup Eatery
  • Ole-Johan Eatery
  • Medica Eatery

Please note: The container must be returned in the deposit machine to receive the NOK 44 refund.

Questions & answers

Can reusable containers be used for sandwiches or cakes?

  • No. Reusable containers can only be used for buffet meals.

When is the NOK 44 deposit added at checkout?

  • First register the meal as Buffet flergangsboks or Grønn buffet flergangsboks at the checkout, then add Pant (deposit) NOK 44.

Can I use a reusable container I’ve already paid a deposit for when buying food later?

  • Yes, that’s fine. In that case, you only pay for the food and do not add a deposit for the container.

Why is the deposit for the reusable container NOK 44?

  • The NOK 44 deposit covers the purchase cost of one container.

Can I keep the reusable container, or does it have to be returned?

  • Yes, you can keep the container if you wish, but then you will not receive the deposit refund. To get the NOK 44 deposit back, the container must be returned in the deposit machine.

What happens if I lose the reusable container?

  • If the container is not returned, the deposit will not be refunded.

Does the reusable container need to be clean when returned?

  • The container must be emptied of food and cutlery before being placed in the deposit machine.

Can I return the reusable container somewhere else than where I bought the food?

  • Yes, the container can be returned at any dining hall that offers reusable containers.

How do I get the deposit back?

  • You receive the NOK 44 deposit back by tapping your card and returning the container in the deposit machine.

What should I do if the deposit machine is not working?

  • Scan the QR code on the deposit machine and follow the instructions.