The Many Uses of To Go Containers

Reusable containers can bring many benefits for restaurants, households, and catering services. There is a wide selection of containers available for cooking, food storage, transportation, and repeated use. One popular option is plastic to-go containers, which can be a valuable addition to restaurant supplies. Not only are they recyclable, but they also offer a reusable solution that customers can feel good about using when they take their food on the go. Another advantage of plastic containers is that they eliminate the risk of broken glass, making them a safer choice.

Plastic To-Go Containers

Are you in search of heavy-duty containers for your restaurant that can be reused multiple times for food storage and are both microwave and dishwasher safe? Look no further than plastic to-go containers! These containers are ideal for meal prep during the week or storing food service supplies and ingredients. They are stackable, microwave safe, and convenient for travel. If you prefer to cook for the entire week in advance, these plastic food containers are the perfect solution for food storage. For more information on the best containers for meal prepping, check out this blog post. Additionally, there are a variety of plastic bowl options available for meals such as tacos and soup, which are separate from salad bowls.

* Here are a few options for microwave-safe plastic containers, all of which come with separate lids for use.

With this option, you can enjoy a complete meal without any cross-contamination. The multiple compartments allow you to store or transport your food separately, so there's no need to worry about vegetable juice mixing with your rotisserie chicken or mashed potatoes.

Aluminum To Go Containers

Aluminum containers offer versatility in the kitchen. You can use them for cooking, as well as to-go containers to keep food warm during delivery. They are also great for storing leftovers. While they are not microwave safe, you can easily transfer the food from the fridge to the oven for a quick and convenient meal. So, with aluminum containers, you can cook, transport, and reheat your food with ease.

Aluminum trays and round containers, especially those with a black and gold design, are often considered a premium option for to-go containers. They provide a stylish way to enhance your food presentation. Similar to plastic containers, aluminum containers come with lids to match, with the trays being sold with OPS plastic dome lids, while the round containers offer the choice between plastic dome lids or foil-laminated paper lids. There are various sizes available to choose from, making them a versatile option for meal prepping, even though it was not mentioned previously.

Life of a Container After Food

There are many creative ways to reuse food containers beyond storing food. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Storage

Using old food containers to store coins is a practical and economical solution. This idea may not be new to you, as it is reminiscent of the old tradition of keeping loose change in an old can. Plastic deli containers serve just as well and are a great alternative to the traditional method.

Small toys can also be stored in food containers and you can easily stack them on a desk or shelf. Plus, you can label the outside of the containers using a sharpie marker for easier organization.

Food containers are not only useful for crafts, but also for storing craft supplies. You can use them to organize and store items such as crayons, beads, buttons, and pins. The same principle applies to nails and screws in the garage, making it a convenient and practical storage solution.

An innovative and practical use of portion cups and lids is for storing pacifiers. The cups are the perfect size for pacifiers and can be easily cleaned and disinfected before use. By storing pacifiers in the cups, you can easily take them on the go in a diaper bag or backpack. This method of storage also helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, as pacifiers are protected and kept clean in the closed cup.

2. Crafts

There are many creative crafts that can be made using to-go containers and the paper bags they come in. These bags can also be used as wrapping paper for presents, adding an attractive and unique touch to gift-giving. The possibilities are endless and limited only by your imagination.

Many schools encourage projects made from recycled materials and food containers can be a great resource for this. For example, plastic or foil containers can be used to build models of a plant cell, making it a fun and educational project. Utilizing recyclable materials not only helps the environment, but also teaches students the importance of reducing waste and repurposing items.

3. Garden and Outside Uses

Using a container with a lid to feed two extension cords through can help protect them from moisture and keep them dry outside. This is a practical solution for outdoor use, especially in situations where you need to plug in equipment in the yard, but are concerned about rain or sprinklers. To do this, simply cut two holes on opposite sides of the container and run the cords through. The plastic hinged containers or square bowl containers with lids are a good option for this purpose. By keeping the cords protected and dry, you can ensure that they function properly and avoid any potential safety hazards.

Old containers can be transformed into stylish flower pots with a little creativity. By adding a layer of soil, rocks and your favorite flowers, you can create a beautiful centerpiece for your home or office. You can also keep the container in its original form to display the roots and soil, giving you a unique and interactive view of the plant's growth. The choice is yours, so let your imagination run wild!

Not only does this help reduce waste, but it is also a cost-effective solution for storing and transporting food and other items. Remember that not all to go containers and utensils are created equal, so make sure to choose the right ones for your specific needs. And always check the specifications and guidelines for microwave and dishwasher safety before using them. By utilizing the many ways to reuse to go containers, we can all make a difference in promoting a greener and more sustainable future.