Consumers prefer eco-friendly options when shopping. One survey found that 82% of people are willing to spend more for sustainable packaging. Restaurant owners must take notice and be willing to invest in this new trend to:
- Attract new customers
- Help do something good for the environment
You can even pass the cost of eco friendly takeout containers on to your customers and use the fact that you're going sustainable in your marketing materials.
What to Consider When Choosing Eco Take Out Containers
Consumers, especially younger generations, actively pursue restaurants that offer biodegradable takeout containers, buy hybrid vehicles and make an effort to be sustainable.
Earth-friendly containers offer the same great characteristics that non-eco options offer.
You'll want to consider:
- Insulation: If you deliver food, consider the insulation quality of the container. Takeout containers can have less insulation, but if you deliver, you want the items to arrive at the right temperature for someone to dig in once the food arrives at their door. It's better to spend more for high insulation values and keep guests happy than it is to have unhappy customers and poor reviews.
- Materials: Eco take out containers can be made from quite a few materials, including biodegradable options, compostable materials, recyclable and reusable options. Compostable options will break down quickly, while biodegradable options have varying rates of decomposition.
- Costs: Plastic is often cheaper than an eco container, but prices are coming down for these earth-friendly options. You can pass the slight increase in costs to customers without losing business in the process.
Maintaining quality for your customers should be a top priority. You have a lot of testing to do between containers to find the perfect balance of quality and sustainability. We recommend that your restaurant:
- Split test containers to see how well-insulated they are with real-life examples. Manufacturers may be willing to send you samples, or you can purchase small quantities to test different products.
- Monitor the quality of your containers over time and if consumers begin to complain about them, reevaluate your options.
You have dozens - if not hundreds - of options to choose from to make your eatery earth-friendly. We sell boxes and containers from multiple manufacturers that are affordable and will help you meet your goal of being more environmentally friendly.
Eco Takeout Containers Reviews
Below are the most popular companies selling containers that are used across the country in fast food, casual and fine dining establishments.
World Centric Compostable Boxes
World Centric knows that the planet and humans exist together harmoniously. Every time you purchase from the company, they donate 25% of the profits to local non-profits that focus on the environment.
Every item World Centric manufactures is 100% disposable.
Compostable boxes from World Centric include:
- World Centric CT-SC-U3L-LF: Small, fiber containers that are 9" x 7" x 3" offer unbleached containers with a bio-based lining to prevent moisture and leaks.
- World Centric CT-SC-U2L-LF: Similar to the product above, this model composts in 2 - 4 months and has dimensions of 9" x 7" x 2".
Hot foods stay warm for longer, and these containers are rated to be freezer-safe, too.
World Centric NoTree Paper Take-Out Containers
World Centric also offers NoTree Paper eco takeout containers, which are made from unbleached bamboo paper.
The containers in this line have a bio-based lining and are 100% compostable at commercial facilities.
Great for takeout and leftovers, NoTree Paper containers come in many sizes, including:
The top closure keeps food items safe and secure inside.
Green Wave Bagasse Containers
Green Wave offers PFAS-free containers made from bagasse that are compostable and biodegradable.
Several container options and sizes are available in this line, including:
- 8x8x3-Inch 3-Compartment Container: Designed with a hinged lid, this container has three compartments to separate food items.
- 6x6x3-Inch Single-Compartment Container: Although smaller in size, this single-compartment container is perfect for holding orders of fries or single desserts.
Cold and hot dishes can be stored in these containers, which are leak-resistant and durable.
SafePro Bagasse Containers
SafePro's bagasse containers are biodegradable and compostable, making them a great choice for restaurant take-out dishes.
The natural sugarcane fiber construction is strong, durable and soak-resistant. These containers are even safe for use in the microwave.
A wide range of products are available in this line, including:
- 9x8x3-Inch Hinged Container: A large, single-compartment container ideal for sandwiches, wraps, entrees and more.
- 9x6x3-Inch Hinged Container: One large compartment with a narrower profile that's ideal for sandwiches, wraps, burgers and more.
Bagasse containers are naturally leak-resistant and durable, making them ideal for hot entrees.
Dart PFAS-Free Compostable Containers
Dart's PFAS-free compostable containers are an exceptional choice for burgers, sandwiches and serving small portions of food. Because they're made from bagasse, these containers can handle hot and hefty dishes.
They offer a few options for their eco friendly take out containers, including:
- 8x8x3 Single-Compartment Hinged Container: Offers a spacious compartment for food and secure storage.
- 9x6x3 Hinged Container: Offers a narrower single compartment that's ideal for sandwiches, burgers and appetizers.
The containers in this line of products from Dart are made from 96% renewable resources and can handle hot, steamy dishes (up to 250 degrees F) without losing integrity.
All of these containers are stackable to save on space, and the microwave-safe design makes it easy for customers to reheat their food.
PacknWood Round Containers
PacknWood offers several different types of eco-friendly containers, but their round "Buckaty" boxes are perfect for salads or appetizers.
The 34 oz. compostable Buckaty is a generous size and made from paper. It's biodegradable, compostable and ideal for cold food (not designed for hot food). These containers have optional lids and are even freezer-safe.
PacknWood also offers a 20-ounce deli kraft container made from 100% recyclable paper. It's grease- and leak-resistant, making it ideal for dishes with dry to medium wet ingredients. Strong and sturdy, this container is microwave-safe and biodegradable. Use it for desserts, appetizers and other dishes that aren't too heavy.
The Takeaway
Eco-friendly take out supplies allow you to meet customer demand while reducing your restaurant's environmental impact. Consider your menu and your most popular takeaway dishes when choosing your containers to ensure you deliver a positive customer experience.
To help you meet the needs of your diners, we offer a wide range of biodegradable and compostable take-out containers for restaurants of all sizes and needs, including heavy-duty options for hot dishes.
Browse our full selection of biodegradable containers today.