Table of Contents
1. Are Disposable Plastic Containers Safe?
2. Types of Disposable Plastic Containers
3. Bulk Buying: What Matters for Your Businesses
4. Where to Buy Quality Disposable Plastic Containers in Bulk?
For food service operators and supermarkets, packaging isn't just a practical necessity—it's part of the brand experience and product protection. These containers are designed to be stackable, easy to store, and transport, which helps keep food fresh and protected.
However, some of you might not know how to find the best disposable plastic containers for your business. You might be concerned about safety, price, or how much to buy. This guide's got everything you could ever want to know. We'll walk you through the safety and types of plastic food containers, tips for bulk buying for your business, and factory-direct supply.
Disposable plastic containers are single-use food packaging solutions made from various types of plastic materials, commonly including PP (polypropylene), PET (polyethylene terephthalate), and PS (polystyrene). They're designed to protect and preserve food for takeaway, delivery, or display purposes. These containers are used a lot in takeout and delivery services, supermarkets, pre-packaged salads, ready-to-eat meals, catering businesses, and food prep businesses.
Disposable plastic containers can be safe for storing food and using in the microwave, but it depends on the type of plastic they're made from. If you're using the disposable plastic containers for hot food and microwave use, it's a good idea to check which plastics are microwave safe before you buy a lot of them.
Plastic Type | Recycling Code | Safety for Food Use |
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) | 1 | Safe for single use only, not recommended for reuse |
PP (Polypropylene) | 5 | Considered safe, best for hot food and microwaving |
LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) | 4 | Generally safe for cold storage and food use |
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) | 2 | Safe for repeated food use |
PS (Polystyrene - Styrofoam) | 6 | Marginally safe for food use; not safe for hot foods |
HDPE and polypropylene are usually considered safe and good for storing food because they're less likely to leach harmful chemicals. Some plastics, like the ones labeled PET, are only safe for one-time use. They shouldn't be reused or exposed to heat or sunlight, as they can break down and release chemicals. Plastics like polystyrene (PS, 6) are usually not recommended for storing food because they often contain chemicals like phthalates or BPA that can leach into food and pose health risks.
When it comes to disposable plastic food containers, there are a lot of options to choose from. Below are some common types of plastic food containers for food service, takeout and supermarkets.
These disposable plastic containers are also named as bento boxes and meal prep containers. They're made with single and divided compartments to keep different food items separated.
Round plastic takeaway containers are commonly used for packaging soup, noodles, rice, salad, etc.
Clamshell containers are a type of hinged lid container made from MFPP: the base and lid are connected and open like a clamshell. They're perfect for dry foods like French fries, fried chicken, burgers, and sandwiches.
Deli containers are available in a variety of sizes, from 8 oz to 32 oz, to suit diverse needs. The 16 oz and 32 oz options are particularly popular. These containers are perfectly suited for packaging soup and stew.
Plastic containers with anti-fog lids are food packaging containers designed so that the lids stay clear — even when being filled with hot, moist, or refrigerated foods. You'll find these containers are great for packaging salads, sushi, fruit, and more.
A plastic food tray (or meat tray) without lids is a shallow, open-top container typically used for packaging and displaying fresh foods — especially meats, poultry, seafood, or produce — in supermarkets, butcher shops, etc.
If you buy disposable plastic containers in bulk from a reliable supplier, you can save money on packaging and make sure that the quality and supply are consistent.
Materials: Make sure containers are made from food-grade plastics, depending on your use case.
Meal type & Use Cases: Find the types of plastic containers that match well with your meal type, such as hot, cold, dry, liquid food.
Must-Have Features: Verify they are leak-proof, sturdy, and heat resistant (microwave/freezer safe if needed).
Custom Printed Logo: Consider adding your logo or design to make your brand stand out. Custom packaging can make your products more attractive to customers.
Supply Stability: Choose the supplier that can supply goods on time and maintain the product quality.
Looking for high-quality disposable plastic containers for your business? At Taishan Changjiang Plastic Products Co., Ltd., we produces a wide range of disposable plastic food containers, including: PP food containers, clamshell containers, deli containers. Here's everything you want to know.
Explore our disposable plastic food containers or get a quote today! Contact us at lr@lrpacking.com or call us at +86-13326828480 for samples and pricing.