Disposable food trays are a convenient option for many food service businesses, such as cafes, takeout restaurants, and catering companies. They are lightweight, easy to transport, and can be disposed of quickly and easily. However, with the increasing awareness of environmental issues, it is important to consider the impact that disposable food trays can have on the environment.
In this guide, we will discuss three popular material options for disposable food trays: plastic, paper, and biodegradable. Whether you need fish and chip boxes or another type of food container, we’ve got you covered.
Plastic Food Trays
Plastic food trays are the most common type of disposable food tray. They are durable, leak-proof, and can withstand high temperatures. They are also relatively inexpensive and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. However, plastic food trays are not biodegradable, which means they do not decompose naturally. They can take hundreds of years to degrade and can release harmful chemicals into the environment. Plastic food trays also contribute to plastic pollution, which can have a devastating impact on marine life and other wildlife.
Plastic is convenient and cheap, but you might want to check out some options too!
Paper Options
Paper food trays are a more environmentally friendly option than plastic trays. They are biodegradable, which means they will decompose naturally over time. They are also made from renewable resources, such as wood pulp. Paper food trays are also relatively inexpensive and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. However, paper food trays can be less durable than plastic trays and may not be suitable for transporting hot food. They can also be less leak-proof and may not be able to hold liquid as well as plastic trays.
Better for the Environment
Biodegradable food trays are another environmentally friendly option. They are made from materials that are biodegradable and compostable, such as corn starch or bamboo. These trays will decompose naturally over time and do not release harmful chemicals into the environment. Biodegradable food trays are also relatively inexpensive and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. However, they may not be as durable as plastic or paper trays and may not be suitable for transporting hot food.
Which Type of Food Tray Works Best for You?
When choosing a material for disposable food trays, it is important to consider the environmental impact of each option. Plastic food trays are the most common type of disposable food tray, but they are not biodegradable and can contribute to plastic pollution. Paper food trays are biodegradable and made from renewable resources, but they may not be as durable or leak-proof as plastic trays.
Biodegradable food trays are made from materials that are biodegradable and compostable, but they may not be as durable as plastic or paper trays. Ultimately, the choice of material will depend on the specific needs of your food service business, as well as your commitment to reducing your environmental impact.