What Are Carryout Food Containers?

Carryout food containers refer to disposable and reusable containers for food and grocery items. These containers are made out of a variety of different materials, such as plastic, styrofoam, cardboard, and more. Many to go containers have lids to secure snacks and food to ensure that they will not leak or spill.

Carryout boxes are given to customers in restaurants to store leftovers after a meal. In addition to disposable cutlery and paper cups, many companies also provide to go food boxes for their employees in break rooms and cafeterias. Carryout boxes create less food waste by allowing patrons and employees to keep their food fresh for later.

What Types of Carryout Food Containers Are There?

The two main types of carryout food containers are disposable and reusable to go boxes.

Disposable Takeout Containers

Disposable to go containers are made out of materials that can’t be washed or reused, such as styrofoam, paper, and cardboard. Disposable takeout containers are often used at restaurants and corporate events because they are cost-effective and available in bulk.

Although these to go boxes can’t be washed and used later, they allow customers and guests to take home food they would otherwise throw away in waste and recycling holders. In some cases, paper and cardboard containers can be recycled after use.

Reusable Takeout Containers

Reusable carryout food containers are durable plastic containers that can be used multiple times. Workers rely on reusable takeout containers to store their snacks and lunches for work. Reusable carryout food containers make it possible for employees to cook at home and bring their food to work, so they can save money on eating out every day.

Unlike disposable containers, reusable containers can be washed with dish soap or other detergents, and reused multiple times. These containers are also usually microwave and dishwasher-safe.

Are Plastic Takeout Containers Safe?

Many people wrongly believe that reusable plastic takeout containers are not safe to microwave. Reusable carryout food containers made by companies like Glad and Tupperware are made out of a durable plastic called polypropylene that is safe to reuse and reheat multiple times.

As long as the box is labeled “microwave-safe,” you can rest assured that reheating your food in that container will not contaminate your meal or pose a threat to your health.