Foam To-go Containers

Foam Containers for Food: What You Need to Know

To-go orders, curbside pickup, and delivery options are a fantastic way to expand your foodservice operation even when your dining area is closed. Many establishments avoid the use of disposables because of the environmental impact one-use plastics can have, but new materials can make foam to-go containers recyclable, eliminating this worry. Many manufacturers are taking significant steps to reducing their overall environmental impact with recycled packaging, as well.

There are many different types of foam food boxes; you'll need to choose from a range of sizes, shapes, and styles to find the best option for the foods you'll be serving most. Some manufacturers, such as Darnel, guarantee all products in a certain line will be made of recyclable materials, but if this consideration is important to you, check the product specification page for the piece you want before purchasing it. We'll go over the different types of foam food boxes below to help you choose the best set for your needs.

Common Questions About Foam To-go Containers

How should I choose a foam container for food types?

Many of the foam to-go containers in this section come with multiple compartments – ideal for serving a full to-go meal. Others have one large single compartment, which works better for a meal that can be combined into one dish. If your restaurant serves traditional entrée and side dishes, you'll want enough compartments to keep each side separate from the main dish, especially if the flavors aren't meant to be mixed – for example, if you have meat and a side of fresh fruit.

Next, consider the dimensions of the menu item you want to serve in a foam food box. Some items, such as corn dogs, are much longer than they are wide, and you can save money by buying smaller, appropriately shaped boxes over square boxes. Using your space efficiently may seem like a small difference, but once you've sold a few thousand units, the savings can be significant.

Why do I need vented foam boxes for food?

Vents in the tops of these boxes enable hot air to leave the box at a slow rate rather than having a cloud of steam escape the moment the box is opened. They also enable moisture to escape, which means the box doesn't end up absorbing all the steam and potentially compromising its structural integrity.

Are foam to-go containers environmentally damaging?

Styrofoam is notoriously hard to recycle and takes a long time to break down, but not all foam containers are made of styrofoam. Depending on the manufacturer, some foam to-go containers can be entirely recyclable, made with recycled materials, or created through eco-conscious production methods. For example, Darnel foam containers are made in such a way that the resulting polystyrene foam will break down in a relatively short time, so they don't impact the environment in the same way that styrofoam to-go containers would. Consult the product specifications page for the individual container you're considering to see what material it's made of as well as whether or not it's recyclable.