Are Takeaway Boxes Really Safe? Do You Know the Size and How to Use Them?
author: Iris
2024-12-11
What to Do with Takeout Containers？
Reuse
Some takeaway boxes, such as plastic boxes, can be reused after cleaning. They can be used to store leftovers or as temporary storage boxes for small items.
Recycling
For disposable takeaway boxes, try to sort and recycle them. Plastic containers, paper boxes, aluminum boxes, etc., can all be reused through the recycling system. Cleaning the recyclable takeout containers and reducing stains and oil stains will help improve recycling efficiency.
DIY Handmade
Creative use of takeaway boxes can be made into small flower pots, storage boxes, or children's handicrafts, which are both environmentally friendly and interesting.
What Size Are Chinese Takeout Containers？
The size of Chinese takeaway boxes usually depends on the different dishes and needs. Here are several common size classifications:
| Purpose | Common size (length, width, and height) | Capacity |
| Small lunch box | 120mm * 100mm * 50mm | 500ml |
| Standard lunch box | 150mm * 130mm * 60mm | 750ml |
| Large lunch box | 180mm * 150mm * 70mm | 1000ml |
| Multi-grid lunch box | 220mm * 180mm * 50mm | 1000ml and above |
These sizes are suitable for different types of takeaways, such as fast food, rice bowls, noodles, etc. Knowing the takeout container size can help you choose the takeaway lunch box that best suits your needs.
Is It Safe to Eat Out of Takeout Containers？
With the improvement of environmental protection and health awareness, people are more and more concerned about the safety of takeaway boxes. So, can food takeout container be used safely? Let's take a deeper look.
Safety of Boxes Made of Different Materials
Plastic Lunch Boxes
Common plastic lunch boxes include PP (polypropylene) and PET (polyethylene terephthalate). PP materials are usually resistant to high temperatures and suitable for microwave heating, but PET materials should not be heated, otherwise harmful substances will be released. Therefore, before eating food, you need to confirm whether the lunch box is marked with the "microwave safe" symbol.
Paper Lunch Boxes
Paper lunch boxes usually have a waterproof coating, generally PE (polyethylene) or PLA (polylactic acid) coating. PLA is an environmentally friendly material that can be degraded under composting conditions, while PE coating may release chemicals at high temperatures. Therefore, it is recommended not to use paper lunch boxes to heat greasy foods.
Aluminum Foil Lunch Boxes
Aluminum foil lunch boxes have good thermal conductivity and are suitable for baking and heating, but cannot be used in microwave ovens because the metal material will cause sparks.
Tips for Safe Use
- Avoid long-term storage: No matter what material the takeaway box is made of, it is not suitable for long-term storage of food, especially high-temperature and high-fat food.
- Confirm the box label: Check the safety label on the bottom of the box before use to understand its heat resistance and recycling characteristics.
- Avoid repeated heating: Disposable boxes are not suitable for repeated heating; otherwise, harmful substances may be released.
Environmental Alternatives
If you are worried about the safety of takeaway boxes, you can choose a more environmentally friendly alternative:
- Degradable boxes: Use PLA or pulp molded boxes, which can be decomposed in the natural environment.
- Bring your own box: Bring your own reusable stainless steel, glass, or silicone box, which is safe and environmentally friendly.
- Reduce the frequency of takeout: Try to reduce the frequency of takeout orders to support environmental protection actions.
Where to Buy Plastic Takeout Containers?
Huizhou Yangrui Printing & Packaging Co., Ltd. provides a wide range of plastic takeout containers designed to meet your unique needs. Whether you need a customized solution or professional guidance, our dedicated team is here to help. We focus on delivering innovative and high-quality takeout container options tailored to your specific requirements. Contact us at sales@yrpak.com or call +86-159 8949 1653 to learn more about our products and robust manufacturing capabilities.
References
- Bhatia, A. (2020). Sustainable Food Packaging: Trends and Innovations. CRC Press.
- Chaudhary, M., & Sharma, R. (2021). Advances in Plastic Food Containers and Their Applications. Springer.
- Gonzalez, L. (2018). Plastic Meal Prep Containers: Design, Safety, and Usability. McGraw-Hill Education.
- Lee, J. W. (2019). Practical Guide to Food Container Materials. Elsevier.
- Patel, N., & Wang, T. (2020). Plastic Containers for Food Storage: From Design to Sustainability. Wiley.
- Zhang, X. (2017). Innovative Packaging Solutions for Meal Prep Containers. Pearson Education.
Which Containers Are Safe and Unsafe for Food Storage?
What Are the Best Meal Prep Containers for Your Needs?
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