Food plastic packing trays

Types of food plastic packing trays

Food plastic packing trays are designed to store, display, and transport food. Typically, they come with a cover and are used to hold fresh produce, meat, and ready-to-eat meals. Their design is intended to enhance the shelf life of food products while preserving their freshness and preventing contamination. Below are some of the common types of food plastic packing trays:

• Hinged Trays:

  Hinged trays, also known as clamshell trays, are food packaging made from plastic with a top and bottom that are joined by a hinge along one side. This type of packaging is commonly used for berries and other small fruits, as well as for baked goods like pies and cakes. The hinged design allows for easy opening and closing of the container, making it simple for consumers to access the food inside while ensuring a secure seal to help preserve freshness and prevent contamination.

• Thermoformed Trays:

  Thermoformed trays are created using a process called thermoforming, which involves heating plastic sheets until they become pliable and then shaping them over molds to create specific forms. These trays are lightweight, strong, and cost-effective, making them a popular choice for packaging a wide range of food products, including meats, fruits, vegetables, and prepared meals. There are several types of thermoformed trays, such as:

  • Vacuum Trays: These trays use a vacuum seal to remove air from the packaging, which helps to keep food fresh by extending its shelf life. Vacuum-sealed trays are often used for perishable items like meat and fish.
  • Skin Packaging Trays: Skin packaging trays involve stretching a plastic film tightly over the product and sealing it to the tray. This creates a "second-skin" effect around the item, providing a clear view of the food and helping to keep it secure and fresh.
  • Blister Packaging Trays: Blister packaging trays feature a series of sealed plastic "blisters" or bubbles that hold individual items. This type of packaging is commonly used for small food items like pills and tablets.

• Tray Packs:

  Tray packs refer to pre-formed plastic trays that manufacturers use to package their products. These trays are often produced in large quantities and come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different types of food items. Tray packs may use different types of plastics based on the needs of the food and the packaging.

• Composite Trays:

  Composite trays combine multiple materials to leverage the strengths of each material used. For instance, a composite tray may have a cardboard base for strength and insulation and a plastic top for moisture resistance and visibility. These trays are often used for ready-to-eat meals and snack foods.

Design of food plastic packing trays

Food plastic packing trays design is a complex process involving multiple considerations. Manufacturers strive to design trays that meet usability, aesthetic, and environmental sustainability needs.

• Usability Considerations:

  First, the usability of food packaging trays is considered. The trays should be easy to use for both manufacturers and consumers. They should be easy to fill, seal, and open. Usability also involves considering how the trays stack, store, and transport. Trays designed to stack easily and store compactly can save space and reduce transportation costs. Another critical usability aspect is the clarity of the material. Trays made from clear plastics allow consumers to see the product inside, enhancing appeal and trust.

• Aesthetic Considerations:

  Food packaging trays must also meet aesthetic needs. This usually involves considering the color, shape, and overall design of the tray. Manufacturers often choose colors that match their brand identity. The shape of the tray should not only fit the product but also attract the consumer's attention. Aesthetically pleasing trays can enhance the product's image and increase sales.

• Sustainability Considerations:

  In recent years, the demand for sustainable packaging has been increasing. Manufacturers are trying to design trays that use less plastic or can be recycled, reused, or composted. This trend is driven by both environmental protection needs and consumer preferences. Sustainable packaging can reduce environmental impact and improve brand image. As a result, manufacturers are exploring biodegradable materials, designing trays that can be easily separated from different materials, and using less plastic in their designs.

Scenarios of food plastic packing trays

Food plastic packaging trays are used in many industries and businesses. They are very useful for packaging, presenting, and distributing food. Restaurants, grocery stores, and food suppliers use them. Here are some scenarios where plastic food packaging trays are used:

• Ready-to-eat meals

  Plastic trays are used to package ready-to-eat meals sold in supermarkets and convenience stores. These trays keep the food fresh and allow customers to see the contents. They often have compartments for different foods like rice, meat, and vegetables.

• Catering and events

  Disposable plastic trays are convenient for catering at events, weddings, or parties. They make it easy to serve appetizers, finger foods, and party platters. The trays are convenient to clean up and dispose of after the event.

• Meal kits

  With the rise of meal kits, plastic trays are used to package ingredients for specific recipes. These trays organize raw and prepped foods, so customers can quickly make their meals at home.

• School and workplace lunches

  Plastic trays are often used for school lunches and cafeteria meals in workplaces. They are durable and can be reused or disposed of easily, making them practical for large-scale feeding.

• Fish and seafood packaging

  Plastic trays are used to present fish and seafood in grocery stores. They often have features like drain holes and tight seals to keep the product fresh and reduce ice melting.

• Dessert and bakery items

  Plastic trays package cakes, pastries, cookies, and other baked goods. They protect delicate items from damage and provide an attractive display for customers.

• Special diet and health foods

  Trays are often used to package foods for special diets, like organic products, gluten-free items, and foods. They provide clear labeling and presentation for health-conscious consumers.

• Frozen foods

  Plastic trays are used for frozen foods like TV dinners, frozen vegetables, and fruit trays. They are designed to withstand freezing temperatures and can often be microwaved for heating.

How to choose food plastic packing trays

Wholesale buyers need to consider multiple factors when selecting plastic food trays. They must ensure that the trays are suitable for the food they hold. Also, they should consider the production process, customization needs, and sustainability.

• Food safety

  Plastic food trays should be safe for food contact. They should not release harmful substances into the food. Trays that hold ready-to-eat or perishable food may need to be treated with a special antimicrobial process. This treatment can help prevent bacterial growth.

• Production process

  Wholesale buyers should know the production process for the trays they buy. Some processes involve adding color or other materials to the plastic resin before molding. Other methods involve coating or laminating the finished trays.

• Customization

  Wholesale buyers may want to customize their food plastic packing trays. Customization can include printing the brand logo or using special colors. It can also involve altering the tray shape to better fit the food.

• Sustainability

  Many customers want products to be environmentally friendly. This trend affects the packaging people choose. Consider trays made from recycled plastic or those that can be recycled themselves. Trays made from biodegradable materials are also gaining popularity.

• Performance and durability

  Wholesale buyers should consider the performance and durability of the trays. They should select trays that resist cracking and can easily stack. Also, consider how well the trays seal. A good seal can extend the product's shelf life and improve food safety.

• Cost

  Cost is always a crucial factor in the wholesale buying decision. Evaluate the total cost of the trays. Also, consider the costs associated with customization and the use of sustainable materials.

• Regulatory compliance

  Lastly, ensure that the plastic trays comply with local and national regulations. These rules may govern food safety and packaging standards. Check with the suppliers about compliance certification.

Q&A

Q1: Are food plastic packing trays recyclable?

A1: Many food plastic packing trays can be recycled, but it's essential to check local recycling guidelines. Look for recycling symbols on the trays. PETE (1) and PP (5) plastics are commonly accepted. However, foam trays may not be recyclable.

Q2: Can food plastic packing trays be used in microwaves or ovens?

A2: Some plastic trays are microwave-safe and oven-safe to a specific temperature. Check for microwave and oven-safe symbols. Avoid using non-microwave-safe trays in the microwave or exceeding the recommended temperature in the oven.

Q3: How can I ensure food safety with plastic packing trays?

A3: Choose trays labeled as food-grade plastic. These plastics are safe for food contact. Ensure trays are clean and undamaged before using them. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper use and storage.