How to choose between paper lidded bowls and paper trays
Paper packaging has long been a common solution for food delivery. Sturdy paper plates, bowls, trays and boxes have long been used by delivery services and street food festival organisers. In some cases, trays and lidded boxes are interchangeable, in others they are not. You can order both types of containers online here https://univest-pack.com/shop/. Let’s look at the situations where one or the other is used:
Food delivery services can use both trays and bowls, depending on the type of food they are serving. Trays are ideal for foods that benefit from a more open presentation and those that are not overly saucy or liquid-heavy. Items such as sandwiches, wraps, burgers, chips or finger foods are better suited to paper trays as they are easier to arrange for delivery. If the food is dry or can be securely wrapped in paper or plastic, there may be no need for a lid. Paper trays often come with an open top, which may allow better airflow for foods that need to stay crisp, such as fried or roasted foods. Large salads, barbecued meats or multiple sides are more easily accommodated in a tray than in a bowl with a lid.
For hot foods that require some insulation, a paper bowl with a lid can help maintain the temperature and protect the food from contamination. Paper bowls with lids are also necessary for soups, curries, stews and other liquid-heavy foods that need to be sealed to prevent leakage or spillage during serving. If the food is served with sauces that may drip, such as pasta dishes or some types of casseroles, lidded bowls are more secure and prevent any mess during transport.
At street festivals, paper trays are mainly used for foods that are typically eaten on the go: tacos, hot dogs, burgers or kebabs. A multi-component meal (e.g. a portion of chips, a sandwich and a drink) is easier to serve on a tray than in a bowl. Trays also make it easier for vendors to serve food quickly, especially when large quantities are involved. They allow faster distribution in high-traffic environments such as street festivals.
When food vendors are serving hot soups, stews or cold salads and need to maintain the correct temperature, lidded bowls provide more insulation and prevent spillage, which is important for both temperature control and cleanliness in a busy festival environment. For foods that are messy or prone to spillage, such as salads or ice cream, paper bowls with lids are a safe way to prevent accidents. If a food vendor is offering a combo or multi-course meal (e.g. a bowl of chilli with sides), paper bowls with lids may be a more practical option to keep the different elements contained and separate.
Ultimately, choosing between lidded paper bowls and paper trays depends on the type of food being served and how it’s consumed.
