Consumers today are constantly on the move, and carry-out, delivery and third party delivery services have become the norm for many restaurants and other foodservice establishments. As a result, disposable take-out packaging has become an essential component of operation.
There’s a wide variety of take out containers available, but with increasing bans and consumer demand for sustainable packaging you may be interested in a more eco friendly take out containers---custom printed paper cups&paper bowls option for your business. Despite changing legislation and consumer demand, budget constraints are always a concern.
Finding the right balance of price and sustainability can be challenging, but in this article we’ll go over the best sustainable, low-cost options to consider.
Keep in mind that if you are making the switch from a low-cost disposable takeout container like polystyrene or foam, any alternative is likely going to cost you more. But, understanding the types of low-cost sustainable to-go options will ensure you make the best choice for your business.
When trying to determine the best, low cost sustainable packaging material, the first consideration should revolve around how your customers will be disposing of it. Thus, it is important to understand the disposal options in your area which include recycling, composting, or trash disposal.
In most cases, customers will be taking the to-go packaging out of your facility. If your customers can not compost or recycle the container, you may not be using a sustainable option at all. For example, if you’re providing your customers with biodegradable take out containers but there is no compost facility nearby (and they are just throwing it away in the trash bin), it is no longer a sustainable option.
Types of Eco-Friendly To-Go Containers
With regard to sustainable packaging, you will likely want to choose to-go foodservice packaging that is recyclable or compostable.
Recyclable to-go containers are products that can be reclaimed or reprocessed into new materials. Recyclable takeout containers are commonly made from plastic.It is important to keep in mind that not all plastics are recyclable. For example, plastic number 6, more commonly known as polystyrene is not accepted for recycling. Plastics that are not recyclable will typically end up in landfills.
Pro Tip: The recycling code is typically found on the bottom of containers. It is a number surrounded by 3 arrows chasing each other in a triangle.
