Easily taken for granted, plastic food storage containers are a staple supply in any food service operation. It’s beneficial to take the time to become familiar with the main types, materials, and sizes. By paying attention to these attributes, you could save money in both the cost of the container and in the reduction of food waste through a more efficient operation.
When shopping for plastic food containers, it is important to know which type of container you need and what the container is made of before deciding. Here are the different types of containers and material options, to help you decide what you need.
In This Buying Guide
- Types of Food Storage Containers
- Food Storage Container Sizing and Shapes
- Container Material Types
- Storage Container Accessories
Types of Food Storage Containers
Food storage boxes are designed to be a bulk food storage solution, allowing for the largest capacity. They have a stackable design for efficient storage. Food storage boxes are commonly used for bulk ingredients, produce or prepared foods. These are perfect for organizing ingredients or replacing the original packaging after receiving new items. Most food storage boxes are clear or see-through allowing prep staff to quickly see what’s inside. We recommend checking labels for specifics, but most food storage boxes are refrigerator, freezer and dishwasher safe.
Pro Tip: Use different color boxes to prevent cross-contamination and improve efficiency. This is the same concept you see with cutting boards. Creating a system of your own or adopting common color codes will keep your kitchen running smoothly. FoodDocs offers a cheat sheet for color coordination that will keep your kitchen safe and in sync with industry standards.
Dough boxes are great for storing, proofing and transporting pizza dough, maximizing the life of your dough. Typically, dough boxes can withstand a wide range of temperatures, allowing for cold or warm storage. These can often be stacked for more efficient storing, and the addition of racks or dollies makes transportation easier. These typically are sized at 18” x 26”. Some dough boxes offer lids which are particularly helpful during transport, consider if this is something you need when planning your purchase.
Ingredient bins are designed to keep your dry ingredients fresh and organized. These come in a range of sizes, from mason jars to mobile carts, and shapes, including square, round, and rectangle. Both undercounter and shelf styles are available, depending on your business needs.
Pro tip:Multiple ingredient bins are perfect if you want to keep all your dry ingredients in one area. These can be color coded to easily identify which ingredient you need. These fit under worktables and have casters for portability. To find the correct ingredient bin, you will need to consider what type of ingredients will be stored in them. Ingredient bin capacities are based in gallons.
Food storage containers come in a variety of sizes, often displaying easy-to-read ounce, liter or quart measurements. Our assortment offers a range of 1 quart to 22 quarts. Food storage containers come in either round or square sizes. The round storage shape is helpful in promoting air circulation, allowing for faster cooling and an optimal temperature for food safety. Square food storage containers hold more product in a smaller space. Most food storage containers are stackable to save space and improve transportability. To find the correct food storage, you will need to consider what type of product will be going in yours. Will it be wet or dry ingredients? Fresh produce, sauces, or soups?
Pro Tip: Use purple containers and lids to quickly identify allergen-free ingredients.
Container Material Types
Polycarbonate offers a high impact resistance and rigid construction, and it’s highly stain resistant. The clear construction is great for visibility. The average temperature range is -40°F to +375°F, making their use versatile. These are available in round and square shapes.
*May contain Bisphenol-A (BPA)
Price: $$$
Polypropylene offers impact resistant and sturdy construction. It is more flexible than polycarbonate and withstands high heat, but it’s not quite as flexible as polyethylene. Polypropylene is translucent in appearance but can be colored for different applications. It is recyclable, microwavable, and dishwasher safe. The average temperature range is 0°F to +230°F (not ideal for freezing). It’s available in round or square shapes, plus it’s BPA free.
Price: $$
Polyethylene offers impact resistant and sturdy construction; in fact, it’s the most flexible of the materials. Usually, it’s white in color but can be colored for different applications. Polyethylene is also highly resistant to chemicals, acids, and bases, making it ideal for storing various substances. Polyethylene containers are recyclable and dishwasher safe. The average temperature range is -40°F to +180°F (not ideal for cooking). Plus, it’s BPA free.
Price: $
Storage Container Accessories
Food Container Lids: Lids are a great accessory to purchase with your containers. They ensure that the contents of your containers will remain fresh until they can be used. When it comes to lids, there are different options to choose from. Some offer spill-proof resistance, while others only snap on. Additionally, some slide or flip.
Drain Trays: Drain trays or gates are plastic trays that can be put into food storage boxes to allow for liquids to drain, while continuing to maintain optimal freshness.
Color Coding: When you find the best food storage containers for your restaurant, color coding is a great option. This allows you to put certain foods in a particular container every time, so there is no mistaking what’s inside. This helps improve efficiency and make your kitchen allergy-friendly.
Food Storage Labels: Labels are an important part of kitchen organization and safety. Labels are available in many templates, such as days of the week, use by and allergen advisory notices.
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