What is the Best Material for To Go Containers?

When it comes to to-go containers, there are a lot of options for materials that businesses can use. But with so many options, from take out boxes to our take out bags, it can be difficult to know which type of material is best for your needs. Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the right material for your business.

One thing you’ll learn pretty quickly is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for the material that take-out containers are made of. The best material for your to-go containers will depend on the type of food you’re serving, how often you’ll be using the containers, and your budget.

What Kind of Food Are You Transporting?

To-go can mean a whole lot of different types of food. From a light salad to a hearty soup, the weight and type of food you’ll be transporting will play a role in what material is best for your needs.

If you’re transporting light foods like salads, you’ll want to avoid materials that are too heavy or bulky. This is where plastic or paper containers can be a good option. They’re lightweight and won’t add a lot of extra weight to your food.

On the other hand, if you’re transporting heavier foods like soup or stew, you’ll want to make sure your containers can stand up to the weight. This is where sturdier materials like these grab-and-go containers are probably a better option. They won’t collapse under the weight of your food, and they’ll keep everything hot or cold as it should be.

How Often Will You Be Using the Containers?

The frequency with which you’ll be using your to-go containers is another important factor to consider. If your customers will only use them once, which is the case for most to-go containers, you might be more concerned with cost than durability. In this case, paper containers are a great option. They’re relatively inexpensive, they’ll get the job done, and the environmental impact is minimal.

On the other hand, if the containers will be reused, you’ll want to make sure they’re made of more durable material.  Plastic containers are a good option in this case. They’re more expensive than paper, but they’ll last longer and can be used multiple times.

What’s Your To-Go Container Budget?

Of course, one of the most important factors to consider is your budget. Every business has to keep a sharp eye on the bottom line, but offering to-go options is a big part of many businesses. Even though the worst of the COVID pandemic seems to be behind us, take-out has remained an important component of many restaurants.

If you’re on a tight budget, paper containers are almost always going to be the better bet. Paper is relatively inexpensive, so you can get a lot of bang for your buck. And, if you’re worried about the environment, a lot of paper options are made from recycled materials or can even be recycled itself (or composted).

Other Frequently Asked Questions About To-Go Containers

What is bagasse?

Bagasse is a type of paper that is made from sugarcane. It’s a sustainable material that is often used for to-go containers because it is durable, compostable, and can be molded into any shape.

What plastic is used for takeout containers?

The most common plastics used in take-out containers are low-density polyethylene or polypropylene. These plastics are lightweight and durable, making them a good option for transporting food.

What is the most eco-friendly take-out container?

No matter how you define eco-friendly, either in the carbon footprint of its construction to the environmental impact after it’s been used, there is no better option than paper.  Paper is a renewable resource, meaning it can be replenished quickly. And, if it’s made from recycled materials, the environmental impact is even lower.

Are aluminum takeout containers safe?

Yes, aluminum take-out containers are safe. They’re made from a food-grade metal, so you don’t have to worry about the leaching of chemicals into your food.

What kind of containers are best for meal prep?

There are a lot of different options for meal prep containers, but the best ones are going to be made from durable materials.  This is because you’ll be using them multiple times, so you want something that will withstand repeated use.  Plastic or metal containers are a good option for meal prep.

How do you keep moisture out of food containers?

If you’re using paper containers, you can line them with wax paper to help keep moisture out.  You can also use silicone lids, which create a tight seal and help to keep moisture out. The great thing about solutions that keep moisture out is that they also keep moisture in, which is an important concern when you want to prevent leaks or keep food moist. Another option is to also use plastic containers with vents – which will release steam and moisture.

Great Containers For Great Food

There are a lot of options for to-go containers, but every type of food has different needs. Paper and bagasse containers are probably the best choice across the board, checking all the important boxes: eco-friendly, easy to make, and won’t leak. Plastic containers might be the best choice if you’re looking for an extremely durable option that won’t break or leak, either, and can even be reused. Consider your needs carefully before making a decision so that you can choose the best option for your business.