A provision of New Jersey’s commitment to reduce plastics pollution statewide will take effect on Thursday, Nov. 4 when food service establishments may provide single-use plastic straws to a customer only upon request. This includes all restaurants, convenience stores and fast food businesses, each of which must also educate its employees and customers about the restriction.

Consumers will still be able to purchase packages of straws and beverages prepackaged with a straw, such as juice boxes,…