5 Things To Consider When Choosing To-Go Packaging

To-go meals are still a significant aspect of the food service industry. Today, 60 percent of people order delivery or take out at least once a week. Consumers expect their food packing to keep their meals hot, fresh, safe, and intact. Is your restaurant giving customers what they want to stay ahead of the competition? Read on for all the details.

Why Food Takeout Packaging Matters

Diners are almost as particular about their to-go containers as they are about their meals. According to recent reports from the National Restaurant Association, 88 percent of adult diners would consider ordering more food to go if the packaging helped preserve the quality and integrity of dine-in dishes.

Delivery and takeaway sales are forecasted to reach $32 billion in 2024, and the global online food delivery market is predicted to hit $1.79tn by 2028. Restaurant owners can capitalize on this growing market by producing exceptional food and choosing the best packaging takeout containers for their food.

5 Ways to Level Up Food Packaging For Your Restaurant

Are you looking for top, to-go packing tips for your restaurant? Here are five strategies to elevate your to-go packaging, enhance the customer experience, and set your restaurant apart from the competition.

1. Pay Attention to Consumer Trends

One of the first considerations restaurant owners should think about is what customers want from their takeout experience. Here are some of the emerging trends diners seek when they order delivery or takeaway.

• Sustainable Options: 78 percent of American consumers feel an eco-friendly lifestyle is essential. Offering to-go containers that are easily recycled or used repeatedly can fit into a sustainable lifestyle. 
• Leak-Proof Containers: The National Restaurant Association data shows that 64 percent of consumers want to-go spill and leak-proof packaging. 60 percent want to avoid grease stains.
• Tamper-Proof Security: Customers value food safety and security. This is why they look for tamper–proof packaging to guarantee safe food from the kitchen to their hands.

2. Check Packaging Regulations

Before you stock up on takeout containers, it’s important to research legislation regarding acceptable materials. For example, states around the U.S. are working on bills to eliminate the use of polystyrene foam, a common material for food packaging. Washington has introduced a foam ban, which goes into effect in 2024. Oregon is planning on going plastic foam-free by 2025. The proposed Farewell to Foam Act seeks a nationwide polystyrene foam ban by 2026. 

Always check with local and national regulations and guidelines to ensure you buy the correct containers and avoid penalties.

3. Consider Size and Design

Choose containers that are optimized for your menu! To-go packaging isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. You will likely need various sizes and designs based on your menu when choosing containers.

Consider containers with compartments to keep mains and sides separate. Utilize packing with tight seals. Some items may do better in a plastic bag, especially for pasta, stews, or other saucy items if there is a threat of spillage - but also might not be permitted based on local regulations. When creating seasonal menus, think about changing up your containers. You might require containers designed for cold, light meals in the spring and summer months. Sturdy containers that are wrapped and can hold braised goods might be the way to go in the fall and winter.

4. Ensure Temperature Control

Temperature control is critical for packaging, whether keeping food hot or cold. Proper packaging delivers a dine-in quality experience and keeps food safe by maintaining the right temperature during transit. 

• Foil and aluminum containers retain heat well and can easily go in the oven for reheating leftovers.
• Polypropylene containers keep both hot and cold food fresh. Plus, they are leak and spill-proof.

5. Branding Opportunities

Packing provides excellent opportunities for restaurant branding. Stickers with company logos are cost-effective and can double as tamper-resistant labels. Business cards with QR codes that link to upcoming specials or review sites are another way to reach takeaway customers.

The bottom line is always to research your options, consider your customer demographic, and examine your menu to get the best packaging for your budget.

Pick Up Exceptional Food Packaging and Utensils for Less at CHEF’STORE

US Foods CHEF’STORE provides restaurant packaging essentials such as sustainable foil and plastic to-go materials at competitive prices. 

What’s more? CHEF’STORE also stocks high-quality products, from fresh produce to meat, seafood, beverages, and more.

Visit one of our many locations to see what we have in store!