The Advantages of Plastic Food Storage Containers for Restaurants

In today's dynamic culinary world, plastic storage containers are not just ubiquitous—they're indispensable. While the mention of "plastic" may raise concerns for some, it's essential to recognize the positive role these containers play in the restaurant industry.

Both practical and innovative, plastic storage containers can be leveraged for their strengths while restaurants remain mindful of their environmental impact. That’s because these containers enable chefs to create culinary masterpieces and ensure food safety. Let's take a closer look at how these containers benefit commercial kitchens:

Cost-Effective Solution

Cost-effectiveness is a key factor that makes plastic food storage containers a preferred choice for restaurants. When it comes to storing food in a commercial kitchen, restaurants often require a multitude of containers in various sizes to accommodate different ingredients, dishes, and portion sizes.

Compared to alternatives like metal or glass containers, plastic containers are considerably more budget-friendly, allowing establishments to allocate their resources more efficiently elsewhere.

Plastic food containers not only fit the budget but also provide the practicality and versatility that restaurants rely on to manage their kitchen operations efficiently. In the competitive restaurant industry, where every penny counts, the cost-effectiveness of plastic containers is an invaluable advantage.

Durability

Food storage containers are in constant rotation, from holding prepped ingredients to storing leftovers and everything in between. Plastic containers are up to the task, as they are designed to endure repeated use without succumbing to wear and tear. Their sturdy construction and resistance to cracking, chipping, or denting ensure they can handle the demands of a high-paced culinary environment. In comparison: 

• Metal containers can be expensive and can potentially corrode over time when exposed to certain acidic foods or cleaning agents.
• Glass containers are costly and run the risk of breaking, creating safety hazards and additional expenses.

The Importance of Long-lasting Food Storage Containers

Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of the durability of plastic containers is their longevity. Unlike some alternatives that may need frequent replacement due to damage or wear, plastic containers tend to have a longer lifespan, contributing to cost savings in the long run. This longevity is crucial for the smooth operation of a restaurant, as it minimizes the need for frequent replacements and reduces the risk of disruptions in the kitchen workflow.

Variety of Sizes and Shapes

One of the standout features of plastic food storage containers is their general versatility in terms of sizes and shapes. Restaurants rely on a wide variety of ingredients and food items, each requiring specific storage needs. Plastic containers come to the rescue with round, rectangular, and square options that can accommodate virtually any type of food.

• Round Containers: Ideal for liquids and semi-liquids such as soups, sauces, and stews. They facilitate easy stirring and pouring.
• Rectangular and Square Containers: These are perfect for storing solid foods like vegetables, meats, or baked goods. 

Additionally, many plastic food containers feature quantity labels on the side. These labels are a game-changer for precise measurements and inventory management. Restaurants can easily see at a glance how much of a particular ingredient is left, reducing the risk of running out of essential items during a busy service. 

Stackability and Space Efficiency

Stackability is another significant advantage of plastic food storage containers in restaurant kitchens. Their uniform shapes and sizes ensure that they can neatly nest within each other when empty or stack securely when filled. This stackable nature optimizes storage space, allowing restaurants to make the most of their available room.

Airtight Seal and Food Freshness

Where freshness and food quality are non-negotiable in commercial kitchens, and the importance of airtight seals in kitchen containers cannot be overstated. These seals play a critical role in preserving the integrity of ingredients and dishes, ultimately minimizing waste and enhancing the overall dining experience.

• Airtight seals create a barrier that prevents the ingress of air and moisture, two factors that can rapidly deteriorate the freshness and quality of food items. 
• By keeping air out, airtight containers prevent the oxidation of ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and meats. 
• This oxidation process, which occurs when food comes into contact with air, can lead to browning, flavour degradation, and loss of nutrients. 

Furthermore, airtight seals effectively prevent moisture from escaping or entering the container. This is particularly crucial for items like bread, pastries, and baked goods, where moisture loss can result in dry and unappetizing products. On the flip side, keeping moisture out is essential for preventing the growth of mould and bacteria that can spoil food and compromise safety.

Easy Maintenance and Cleaning

Restaurant staff are constantly juggling multiple tasks, and having containers that can be quickly and effectively cleaned saves valuable time and ensures the highest standards of hygiene.

Plastic food storage containers are known for their effortless cleaning process. Their smooth surfaces are easy to wipe clean, and most are dishwasher safe, which is a tremendous time-saver in a bustling kitchen. The ease of cleaning these items allows kitchen staff to focus on what matters most—preparing and serving delicious meals to satisfied customers. Moreover, maintaining a clean and organized kitchen is not just a matter of convenience; it's a critical aspect of meeting health and safety standards and ensuring the reputation and success of the restaurant.

Shop Zanduco For Your Plastic Food Storage Container Needs

In order for your restaurant to perform at its best, it needs the right tools and equipment to get the job done. Plastic food containers help your establishment achieve efficiency while maintaining a high level of culinary excellence. These versatile smallwares ensure food is not only fresh but also safe and readily available for any order that comes through your kitchen.

At Zanduco, we carry various sizes and options of plastic food containers to accommodate your restaurant needs. If you are considering a bulk order or need a hand with determining the right ratio of containers to purchase, reach out to us! Our customer service team is happy to assist you in determining the best options based on the size and cuisine of your commercial kitchen.