NSW Environment Protection Authority has issued Compliance Notices to Woolworths Group and H2coco after finding banned plastic straws attached to two beverage products.
The notices require both companies to stop supplying H2coco Young Green Coconut Water 200ml and H2coco Chocolate Flavoured Coconut Water 200ml, after single-use plastic straws were found attached to poppers sold exclusively in Woolworths supermarkets.
The straws are made from polylactic acid (PLA), a type of bioplastic. Steve Beaman, executive director of Operations at the NSW EPA, said plastic straws attached to beverages are prohibited under state law.
“If they’re stuck to a popper or juice box, it’s against the law in NSW, even if it’s marketed as biodegradable or compostable,” he said.
“We’ve been communicating to businesses for a long-time regarding these changes, so there’s no excuse for prohibited items still ending up on supermarket shelves.
“These laws exist to cut down on unnecessary plastic waste and stop problematic materials from polluting our environment.”
The EPA said it has worked with both companies to avoid unnecessary food waste while ensuring the plastic straws are removed from circulation.
“It’s good news H2coco has already stopped manufacturing cartons with these straws and has switched to a paper alternative for future products,” Beaman said.
Remaining stock held by Woolworths must be donated to food rescue organisations or returned to H2coco with evidence provided to the EPA. H2coco may also comply by modifying existing stock with compliant straw alternatives or donating products to food relief charities or employees.
Under the notices, H2coco must stop supply by 7 June 2026, and Woolworths by 21 June 2026.
Failing to comply carries maximum penalties of up to $550,000 for wholesalers, manufacturers and distributors, plus $55,000 for each additional day the offence continues.
Single-use plastic straws have been banned in NSW since 2022, with integrated plastic items attached to packaged food and drinks, including straws on poppers, banned from 1 January 2025.
