To-go containers are essential for restaurants as they enable takeout orders, which represent a significant business opportunity. A study by the National Restaurant Association found that even after the pandemic, 68% of adults expect to continue ordering takeout. As a result, a large percentage (63-86%) of foodservice operators are improving their takeout and delivery packaging. In fact, 68% of all adults expect to continue ordering take out even during life after the pandemic, according to a study by the National Restaurant Association. This may be the reason why a staggering 63-86% of foodservice operators are upgrading their takeout and delivery packaging.
Due to their harmful impact on the environment, and potential health hazards, many businesses are avoiding the use of polystyrene containers, commonly referred to as Styrofoam. These containers are not biodegradable or compostable, and they are unsafe to use in microwaves. According to Healthline, heating food up in polystyrene foam and certain plastic containers cause these substances to transfer onto the food, potentially leading to future health problems, including cancer. As a result, paper containers are a preferred choice for take-out and delivery.
Paper fold-to-go boxes can evoke a sense of nostalgia, often associated with Chinese takeout in large cities such as New York. However, there are several types of paper food containers available, beyond the traditional foldable boxes, that are worth considering for your successful business.
Some of these categories include:
• Buckets, e.g. chicken buckets
• Dessert cups, e.g. frozen yogurt cups
• Food tray, or “hot dog boats”
• Hot cups for drinks
• Eco-friendly Biodegradable & compostable bagasse
‧ Buckets
Paper food containers are highly versatile and serve as a fundamental restaurant supply for businesses. They come in the form of short, wide cups and can hold various foods such as cold frozen yogurt, hot soup, snacks, salads, and dips. These containers also have the added benefit of having compatible lids available, making them an excellent option for on-the-go meals.
Karat Food Containers come in various sizes and colors, including green, white, and pink. They are suitable for holding both hot and cold food items, although they are not recommended for boiling hot soup or beverages as they can only handle a maximum temperature of 190 °F (88 °C). In addition to different sizes and colors, you can also choose from flat or dome lids to accommodate any type of food your business offers.
Karat food buckets come with a lid, making it the perfect option for takeout. Available in white and multiple sizes.
‧ Paper Food Containers
Paper food containers are highly versatile and serve as a fundamental restaurant supply for businesses. They come in the form of short, wide cups and can hold various foods such as cold frozen yogurt, hot soup, snacks, salads, and dips. These containers also have the added benefit of having compatible lids available, making them an excellent option for on-the-go meals.
Karat Food Containers are available in various sizes and colors, including green, white, and pink. These paper food containers are suitable for holding both hot and cold food items, but they are not recommended for boiling hot soup or beverages, as they can only handle a maximum temperature of 190 °F (88 °C). Additionally, they come with the option of flat or dome lids, making them a versatile choice for accommodating any type of food that your business offers.
‧ Food Trays
It's amazing how a simple food container can evoke so many memories and emotions. Whether it's the hustle and bustle of the streets of New York or the energy and excitement of ordering hot dogs and nachos at a ball game, food containers have become an integral part of our food experience. They help us enjoy our food on-the-go, and in doing so, they also become a part of our memories and experiences.
Karat offers traditional red and white shepherd's plaid food trays that are perfect for any event, and come in multiple sizes ranging from 0.5lb to 5lb. These food trays have a classic, timeless look that can enhance the presentation of your food items. In addition to the traditional red and white, Karat also offers these food trays in kraft material, which gives a sleek and professional appearance. Whatever the occasion, these food trays are a great choice for serving and presenting food items.
‧ Hot Cups
During the cold weather season, hot cups are a must-have for everyone. They are not just for coffee lovers, but also for those who enjoy hot cocoa, tea, and apple cider. In addition, many people are not aware that they can get boba milk tea hot, making paper cups the perfect choice for this popular beverage. Whether you're at home, at work, or on-the-go, hot cups are a versatile and convenient way to enjoy your favorite hot drinks.
Karat cups, made in the USA, can be customized with your branding and logo in a variety of sizes. The range of paper hot cups available is vast, including classic coffee cups and ripple-insulated hot cups. With numerous sizes, colors, and patterns to choose from, a complete guide to paper hot cups is available to help you make your selection. Hot cups can be further enhanced with accessories such as jackets and holders, made out of biodegradable paper material.
‧ Compostable and Biodegradable To Go Containers
While most compostable and biodegradable products aren’t paper, they serve the same purpose. Not to mention they are often seen to be better for the earth. We know what you’re thinking, “isn’t compostable and biodegradable the same thing?” The answer is, no, not exactly. Biodegradable products are able to break down naturally and return to the environment, but they may not necessarily break down completely and can leave behind small pieces of plastic or metal. Compostable products, on the other hand, break down completely and turn into nutrient-rich compost that can be used to enrich soil. Composting requires specific conditions, such as a certain temperature and moisture level, to properly break down the materials.
As environmental concerns are growing, many businesses including boba shops and other food establishments are shifting towards using compostable and biodegradable products. This is particularly important for younger generations who are more environmentally conscious, as well as in areas where regulations mandate the use of such sustainable materials. For instance, Honolulu has implemented a strict ban on single-use plastics, making it essential for food businesses to switch to compostable and biodegradable options.
Karat Earth offers a range of eco-friendly products made from bagasse materials, including containers, plates, straws, and cutlery. Bagasse is a natural byproduct of sugarcane, making these products sustainable and biodegradable. For more information about bagasse, check out the "What Is Bagasse?" article or browse the Karat Earth collection. Additionally, Karat Earth offers a selection of paper straws as an alternative to traditional plastic straws.
To sum up, when it comes to to-go containers for your home or business, paper is the best choice. While they are not reusable, paper containers are more environmentally friendly during production and after use. Bulk paper to-go containers are readily available for purchase.
