The Choice of Materials and Cost

The first step in selecting the proper restaurant food packaging is choosing the proper materials. In addition to conventional materials like plastic, cardboard, and Styrofoam, there are also sustainable and biodegradable options.

Each has its own pros and cons:

Styrofoam is a fantastic insulator that helps to control the temperature of hot and cold foods. Though it’s inexpensive, it’s also bad for the environment.

Plastics are durable and provide excellent food protection. Plastics do, however, also retain moisture well, which can quickly result in soggy dishes. Plastics are not very environmentally friendly once more.

Aluminum/foil has the advantages of being durable, sealable, and non-absorbent. It also holds heat well, making it perfect for foods like burritos and grilled sandwiches. The downside is that the material is not microwavable and on the expensive side.

Paper/cardboard is biodegradable, cost-effective, easy to customize printing, and sturdy when folded correctly. Many restaurants offering pizza delivery use corrugated cardboard boxes that provide heat insulation and regulate temperature. The box closes firmly to minimize the amount of heat that’s released and has small holes on the side, allowing some air to escape. This prevents condensation and saves the pizza from getting soggy.

Sustainable packaging alternatives, such as sugarcane and bioplastics, are often more costly, but far better for the environment. 

Make sure to consider other factors, including:

• Durability. The food's weight should be supported by your container without it sagging or collapsing. A container with a clear lid is frequently a reliable choice for heavy, wet items.

• Sizing. The size of the to-go container should match the portion. If you make your servings too big, they will appear small; if you make them too small, it will be difficult to eat the food without spilling.

• Loose lids. Even in the event that the package moves during transit, the lid ought to fit snugly.

• Branding. Add branding to takeout containers to support your marketing campaigns. Depending on the volume of deliveries and takeout, you may order preprinted packages or stamp your name on them..

The best takeout containers fulfill each of these categories. You can order them from restaurant wholesalers. If sustainability is a top priority, work with a sales representative to identify boxes that are both secure and environmentally friendly.

How can you package food for delivery to ensure quality?

After you choose to-go containers, it’s important to train your kitchen staff in proper food packaging. When everyone in your restaurant understands best practices, it helps ensure each meal arrives in good condition.

As you’re packaging food, follow these steps:

• Separate hot and cold items. Keeping them in separate bags makes it easy to maintain the correct temperature in transit. Use insulated bags to help keep hot foods hot during delivery.

• Package liquids carefully. Choose containers with tight lids and ensure they’re secure before packing them. Use cup carriers for extra stability, and make sure glass bottles are protected.

• Follow alcohol delivery rules. For beverage delivery, make sure to label drinks as alcoholic and package them in a separate container. Clear labels keep you compliant and make it easier for delivery drivers to follow local laws.

• Vent fried foods. Keep fried items crispy by choosing vented boxes that let out condensation.

• Label and seal. Give customers extra confidence by sealing plastic and paper food containers to ensure food safety. It’s also a good idea to label hot liquids to prevent spills and injuries to both delivery drivers and diners.

 

Packaging that Delivers - For any type of restaurant, we offer foodservice disposable products

Businesses, from neighborhood bakeries to large grocery chains, need access to the right disposable products at the right price to consistently provide fantastic customer experiences. Count on our team of professionals to assist you in selecting the ideal products for your company.

When it comes down to it, it’s all about what kind of food you’re transporting, how you’re transporting it, and what options are available in your budget.

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If you are looking to expand your carryout or delivery offerings, we’ve got you covered. With 500+ SKUs and counting, we can supply your complete package for off premise dining. From wrapped cutlery and classic clamshells to a variety of shapes and sizes, each order will look as great leaving your door as it does arriving at your customer’s.