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Vytal reusable containers and lids can be efficiently cleaned in commercial and industrial dishwashers. For optimal results, place the bowls upside down and lids either flat with the closure facing down and weighted, or upright like plates. If on-site washing is unavailable, we offer a paid washing service upon request.
You can find an overview of the weights and sizes of our reusable containers. Bowls can be neatly stacked with their lids or nested without lids to save space.
Our app requires at least iOS 12.4 or Android 6.0, though using the latest versions is recommended.
Report leaking bowls directly to our partners. They will remove the bowls from circulation and send them back to us.
Initially, we came up with the names ourselves, using famous personalities, fictional characters, or place names. Now that we need many names, we use a database of international first names.
If the container is completely broken, no action is needed. The cost will automatically be deducted from your payment method after the borrowing period ends. If only the lid or base is damaged, please return the container to a partner location and email us with a photo of the damaged item and the return location. We will refund half of the purchase price.
You can return Vytals with damaged or missing QR codes to any partner as usual. Please email us to inform us where you returned it, so we can manually unregister it. The restaurant will send the container back to us for re-labeling with a new QR code.
We use high-quality polypropylene, a highly recyclable plastic. This material is more environmentally friendly than stainless steel containers and is safe for use in freezers and microwaves (without the lid).
Sushi Containers: 75% recycled stainless steel and Tritan plastic. Made in China.
To make changes to an order placed through the Vytal app, you can cancel it within the cancellation period and place a new order. For special requests, leave a message for the restaurant in the comments field.
If the restaurant you ordered from has its own delivery service, you can give the containers back to their drivers. However, if you ordered through a third-party delivery service, this is unfortunately not possible since drivers may not return to a Vytal partner location to unregister your containers.
Yes, many of our partners allow you to pre-order and pay through the app, so you can pick up your food at the desired time without waiting or have it delivered to your home. Not all Vytal partners offer this service via our app. Partners accepting pre-orders are marked with "Pickup" or "Delivery" in the app. You can also order in reusable containers through delivery services by copying your delivery token into the comments field of the third-party app.
A Vytal container can be reused up to 200 times if handled properly. The key factor is not washing but how customers treat the container. To ensure maximum lifespan and reduce single-use packaging waste, we ask customers not to cut directly inside the containers with knives. After 10 uses, they are already more environmentally friendly than disposable packaging and save up to 30 kg of CO2 over their lifecycle compared to styrofoam or aluminum packaging.
If a Vytal reusable container is no longer usable, we take it back for controlled recycling. The containers are shredded and melted down to create new products, maintaining a circular system and completely avoiding waste. Due to current legislation, these materials cannot yet be used to produce new food containers, but we are working with processing facilities to close the loop as soon as the laws allow.
Our partners are contractually obligated to machine-wash all Vytals before issuing them, ensuring they are hygienically clean. The same regulations apply as for washing dishes used for dine-in service in restaurants.
All Vytals are dishwasher-safe for both home and industrial dishwashers. Except for sushi containers, they are also microwave-safe, though lids should not be microwaved to avoid pressure buildup.
Go to "Profile" > "My Profile" > "Delete Account" in the app. Note that this action is irreversible.
One Vytal credit equals €1. Your credit balance is displayed in your app profile. Credits are awarded for returning purchased Vytals (€5 per bowl, €2 per cup) and linking offline cards to the app (€10 credits). Credits can be used for pre-ordering meals or extending return deadlines.
If you miss the return deadline, your payment method will be charged automatically - €10 for a bowl, €4 for a cup.
When borrowing with the app (14-day period): You can still return the container after the deadline. You will be credited half of the amount as Vytal Credits. You can use these credits for pick-up pre-orders via the Vytal app with some of our partners or to extend return deadlines.
When borrowing without the app (by bank card, 9-day period): It is no longer possible to return items after expiry. The container is yours.
If you use the app, you can see your return deadline directly in the app. We’ll also send you a push notification or email reminder (if enabled).If you borrowed without the app – for example, by tapping your bank card (Tap2Borrow) – the return period is 9 days. You won’t receive a reminder, but you can always scan the QR code on the container to check how much time you have left.
If you borrowed via the Vytal app, you can use the container for free for 14 days. If that’s not enough, you can extend the borrowing period in the app by 7 days at a time – for €1 per extension.
If you borrowed by tapping your bank card on a device (Tap2Borrow), the borrowing period is 9 days. Extensions are currently not possible.
With your Vytal delivery token, you can get meals delivered from Vytal partners, whether via their websites or third-party platforms like Lieferando or Wolt. Copy the delivery token into the order comments. Restaurants will link containers to your account and pass them to drivers. The token is valid for six days for security reasons.
Yes, you can use Vytal without downloading the app or registering. There are two options:
1. Borrowing with your bank card (Tap2Borrow):
At participating partner locations, you can simply tap your bank card on a device (e.g. payment terminal or smartphone) to borrow a container. No registration is needed, and no money is charged initially. The return period in this case is 9 days.
2. Offline card:
Alternatively, you can buy an anonymous membership card for €10 at many partner locations. This allows you to borrow up to two containers at a time. Once you return them, the card is reactivated. There is no fixed return period with this option.
If no nearby partner offers offline cards, you can also order one by emailing hallo@vytal.org. Please note: the offline card is a purchase item and cannot be returned. The €10 serve as a deposit (similar to the payment method stored in the app). If you later decide to use the app, you can link the card to your account. In that case, the card’s value will be credited to your account as ten Vytal credits.
Please rinse your Vytals before returning them to ease the workload for your favorite restaurant. However, all Vytals are sanitized in industrial dishwashers before being reused.
Our containers are not intended for sale – the system is only sustainable if Vytals are returned quickly and kept in circulation.
If you borrowed a container via the app and don’t return it within 14 days, or if you used your bank card (Tap2Borrow) and miss the 9-day return period, your stored payment method will be charged automatically: €10 for a bowl and €4 for a cup.
The container then becomes yours and can be used privately. However, it can no longer be refilled by our partners, as that would return it to our system.
In the Vytal app, you can find nearby partners. Simply ask for your food or drink in a Vytal when placing your order. At pick-up, either the QR codes on the Vytals and in your app will be scanned by the partner restaurant, or you can scan the Vytals yourself. For orders placed through the app, your personal code is automatically sent to partners to link the Vytals to your account. When ordering via delivery services, copy your delivery token into the comments section.
Payment methods serve as security since Vytals are lent without a deposit. They are also used for payment if you utilize our pre-order or delivery features.
The Vytal system is completely free for customers. We are funded by our partner restaurants, who pay a small fee per Vytal filled. Even so, they usually save money, as single-use packaging often costs more than our reuse fee.
If a Vytal container is not returned within the deadline, customers are automatically charged €10 for a bowl and €4 for a cup.
If you borrowed the container without the app by tapping your bank card (Tap2Borrow), refunds are unfortunately not possible. Since the borrowing is anonymous, we cannot trace the transaction. However, if you download the Vytal app and register, we can enable refunds in such cases.
The partner app requires at least iOS 12.4 or Android 6.0, though using the latest versions is recommended.
Leaking bowls can be returned during pickup with a note (e.g., a Post-it) as leaks may not always be visible. We will either assign new lids or bases or recycle them.
You can use a smartphone or tablet with the partner app installed. Personal devices can be used, or we can provide devices for a fee. Integration with certain POS systems (e.g., Kamasys, Ventopay) is also possible.
Yes, we offer dispensing and return machines. Dispensing machines provide containers only (not food), while return machines or boxes are ideal for cafeterias or offices, simplifying the return process. They can be emptied and scanned all at once.
Once you’ve expressed interest and signed the contract, we begin the onboarding process. You’ll receive an initial supply of containers, training, and promotional materials. Additional training is always available, and you can contact partner service for any questions or issues.
In the partner app under “Statistics,” you can view your current inventory. If this differs from your actual stock, we offer a digital inventory feature. All containers on-site must be scanned, and discrepancies will be highlighted. Contact your representative or partner service for detailed instructions.
Log in to the partner app via the web portal: https://partner.vytal.org/Account/Login. There, you can update opening hours and other details, including temporary closures.
You can order containers in the app under “Statistics” > “Order Containers” or via our partner service through hotline, email, or WhatsApp. To arrange a pickup, contact the partner service. For pickups in Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, Düsseldorf, or Munich, specify the quantity so our drivers can allocate space. Other locations use DPD for returns—let us know the number of shipping boxes and your preferred pickup day. To minimize environmental impact, pickups are scheduled only for packages containing at least 10 containers. Allow three business days for processing pickups or returns.
You can accept returns of containers with damaged or missing QR codes. Please email us with the bowl’s name. If the entire sticker is missing, ask the customer to contact us directly. The container can be returned to us during pickup and will receive a new QR code.
We advocate for an open reusable system for everyone. A circular system is most convenient for customers, allowing them to borrow and return Vytal containers anywhere. Therefore, branding is not allowed. However, for large organizations or closed systems (e.g., cafeterias), we offer a white-label solution.
Check out our product lineup here.
You can find weight and size details for all container types in our overview. The tare setting depends on the type of scale used.
Each Vytal container has a unique QR code, ensuring it can be accurately tracked. This allows for a cashless system between partners and customers. Issuance, returns, deadlines, and container cycles are digitally recorded and verifiable. Containers are scanned during issuance alongside the user’s QR code to link them in our system. Customers can also self-scan containers using the app. At return, only the container is scanned to register the return. Customers can see in their app which containers they have borrowed, for how long, and how much single-use packaging they have saved.
Customers can use the app to scan the QR code on the Vytals themselves and must show the confirmation at the counter. This control step is essential to prevent fraud
No, the Vytal Partner App is a standalone system that you can easily download from the Google Play Store or Apple Store. You only need a smartphone or tablet with internet access and your personal login credentials, which we provide after the contract is signed.
We offer a white-label solution that allows you to purchase Vytal-generated QR codes. These can be applied to your own containers or containers purchased from us that are branded with your logo. The booking processes are then managed via the Vytal app.
We offer interfaces for integration with various POS systems, such as Kamasys and Ventopay.
Yes, we offer Vytal return boxes that can be placed on your premises for returns outside of business hours. Your staff only needs to scan the QR codes on the next working day to complete the return process. Alternatively, we provide digital return machines that independently handle scanning and automatically update the customer’s app to reflect the return.
Yes, this is possible if your catering area is not accessible to the public due to company security regulations. In the Vytal app, we can make it clear to all users that your location is “Employees Only.” However, your employees can still return their Vytals to any participating store in the network.
Non-compliance creates an unfair competitive advantage, as single-use packaging is often cheaper and requires less effort. To ensure fair competition, adherence to the mandate is strictly monitored, and violations are subject to administrative and civil penalties. Fines of up to €100,000 may be imposed under §36 of the Packaging Act. Authorities in each federal state are responsible for enforcing compliance and may take action against violators.
You are required to offer professionally cleaned containers, even if customers return them in a soiled condition. Don’t let this deter you from adopting reusable options, as a properly cleaned reusable container is as hygienic as a plate served in your restaurant. The containers must be dishwasher-safe and capable of being cleaned at high temperatures.
According to the law, you can fulfill the requirement by:
👉 Purchasing plastic or glass containers and lending them to customers
👉 Partnering with a provider like Vytal to offer an efficient and cost-effective reusable solution
You are required to provide a reusable packaging option alongside your existing disposable offerings.
In this case, you are only required to allow customers to bring and fill their own reusable containers. Joining a reusable packaging system is not mandatory, but it can enhance environmental efforts and attract new customers. You can learn more about joining Vytal later.
The mandate applies to restaurants, bistros, cafés, and delivery services that sell takeaway food or drinks. Exemptions apply to smaller businesses with fewer than five employees and less than 80 square meters of space. However, these businesses must allow customers to use their own reusable containers. Chains cannot claim this exemption, even if individual outlets are smaller than 80 square meters, as the overall company employs more than five people.
The law specifies that reusable packaging must not be more expensive than the equivalent disposable packaging. Simply selling reusable containers does not fulfill the requirement.
The reusable packaging mandate, effective January 1, 2023, requires foodservice businesses to offer reusable options for food and beverages alongside disposables. The reusable options must not cost more than their disposable counterparts.
If you accept twice as many returns as you distribute, you are exempt from the fee.
If your inventory differs from the amount stated in the newsletter, please contact our partner service.
After receiving the monthly newsletter, you have until the end of the current calendar month to request a return via the Partner App. If not done, the applicable fee will be charged.
You can initiate returns through the Partner App. Simply go to the menu, select "Return Containers," and specify how many Vytals you’d like to return. We cover return shipping for batches of at least 10 containers. Ensure that returns are sent via DPD or another courier service at your own cost if shipping fewer than 10 containers.
A monthly newsletter will inform you of your sustainable container stock and how many Vytals you need to return to avoid charges. However, you must retain at least 20 Vytals.
If your sustainable stock doesn’t meet your needs, you can quickly order more containers through the Partner App (“Statistics” → “Order More Containers”). These will be delivered within 2–3 business days.
Each unused container beyond the sustainable stock costs €0.50 per month. Fees are only charged when the total exceeds €5, meaning you won’t be charged for up to 10 excess Vytals.
If you have more containers on-site than your sustainable stock allows, you have two options:
We review your transaction count over the past three months and calculate your sustainable container stock accordingly. Simply put: the more Vytals you distribute, the more containers you can keep on-site for free.
We introduced sustainable container stock to ensure that our Vytals are used regularly. This is the only way we can make a sustainable impact on the environment and conserve resources. 🌱💚
The QR code can be used for various user activation purposes, such as:
Damaged containers are 100% recyclable and are returned to the recycling process at the end of their lifecycle.
We use high-quality, recyclable polypropylene. The containers are durable and environmentally friendly.
No, the Vytal reusable system for events does not require the app. Reusable containers can be distributed in various ways, such as:
To ensure a successful event, we’ll need information such as:
These details will be planned together with you.
Prices are net and subject to VAT. 30% of the total is due upon order confirmation, with invoicing at that point. The remaining balance is billed after container return and final tally at the cleaning center. Payment is due within 14 days of invoicing without deductions.
Cleaning is handled by a Vytal washing partner and is scheduled to fit your event. Partial cleaning during the event or full cleaning afterward can be arranged.
Options include:
Decentralized pickup: Containers collected from multiple points on-site.Delivery and pickup schedules are planned in advance.
Last-minute deliveries can be arranged under certain conditions. During planning, we’ll ensure a buffer and account for potential last-minute needs.
We work with you to decide the appropriate number of containers based on your event's duration, food and beverage offerings, and daily visitor count. Containers are delivered in packaging units, which vary by type. We’re happy to assist in defining the right amount.
The cost includes rental, logistics, operational services, cleaning, and optional add-ons. Request a quote for your event here or schedule a consultation.
Vytal provides reusable containers for both food and beverages (including cutlery) for events. An overview of our product portfolio can be found here.
You can return your container at any participating Vytal partner including the partner where you initially borrowed the container. Check out the page below to find Vytal partners close to you that accept your container for return: https://www.vytal.org/about/vytal-for-consumers
The reserved payment will be cancelled and your saved payment method will be deleted from our payment provider‘s data base.
We will charge a compensation fee to your saved payment method, ranging from €4 to €10 depending on the container type.
No. Due to the anonymity of this transaction we have no means for a later refund. If you download and sign-up to our Vytal App, we enable such refunds.
We currently support credit/debit cards as well as mobile payments via Apple Pay and Google Pay. Eurocard/Girocard are not supported.
You have 9 days to return your Vytals after borrowing them. You won’t receive any reminders – but you can always scan the QR code on the container to see how much time you have left.
You can reach us through the usual channels — our customer support phone number or email. Please enter the container name there.
Hotline: +49 (0) 221 669 41561
E-Mail: hallo@vytal.org
For access wider supper functions you can download and sign-up to our Vytal App.
