Implementing takeaway requires investing in storage and presentation containers for customers, as well as packaging compatible with delivery and suitable storage. Voussert has been offering a wide range of environmentally friendly takeaway packaging that is suitable for transport for 45 years.
Takeaway Packaging Guide 2025
The world of takeaway catering is experiencing remarkable growth , transforming food consumption habits since the Covid crisis . Faced with this evolution, the choice of suitable containers is becoming a challenge for professionals in the out-of-home catering sector. This is combined with the implementation of selective sorting, the elimination of plastics and therefore an approach which must tend to reduce our waste: Indeed, as the saying goes: "The best waste is that which we do not produce". Takeaway sales therefore go against this by generating waste that "seated" catering does not produce . It is therefore essential to reduce the environmental impact at all costs, even if this mode of consumption is now anchored in our consumption.
Indeed, the rise of takeaway sales can be explained by several factors: speed of service, competitive prices (around 15 to 20% cheaper than eating in), and the possibility of enjoying a variety of dishes at home. This trend, amplified by new consumer habits, particularly affects younger generations and professionals who prefer to eat at the office rather than frequent traditional restaurants.
Why is packaging central to the takeaway concept?
Beyond its primary role of protecting food from external contamination, it facilitates the transport of preparations through all available delivery channels to the place of consumption. A quality container preserves the organoleptic characteristics of dishes (temperature, texture, flavor) while protecting them from shocks and dust during transport.
Furthermore, it constitutes a real communication tool for establishments. It conveys the brand image and values of your establishment to your customers. Neat and personalized packaging reinforces the reputation of the restaurant, bakery, caterer, etc. and builds customer loyalty. As we have seen, in a context of growing awareness of environmental issues, particularly with the implementation of selective sorting in restaurants, the choice of ecological materials also reflects the establishment's responsible commitment.
Selecting suitable packaging therefore represents a strategic investment for takeaway catering professionals, directly influencing customer satisfaction and the company's reputation.
Understanding Food Packaging Materials: Pros and Cons
Kraft paper is proving itself as an eco-friendly and durable solution for food packaging. Its strength allows for the transport of large orders without the risk of tearing. Its opaque nature effectively protects food from prying eyes. Its production requires fewer resources than other materials, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Cardboard , on the other hand, offers an excellent compromise between lightness and strength. Made from wood fibers (cellulose), it is recyclable and biodegradable. Ideal for deliveries of various dishes, it is however sensitive to humidity which can limit its use for certain preparations. Cardboard is often found in the manufacture of cups but combined with a film coating to ensure it is waterproof against liquids and grease.
Sugarcane pulp (bagasse)
Bagasse is an eco-friendly alternative that's particularly popular in the fast-food industry. Resistant to grease and heat, it allows dishes to be heated in the microwave or conventional oven without deterioration. Its airtight nature makes it a smart choice for home deliveries, maintaining the temperature of food while absorbing the resulting moisture.
Natural wood appeals for its aesthetic appeal and low environmental footprint. Compatible with a variety of meal types, it resists moisture well and effectively preserves raw or cooked foods. Its customizable design makes it a preferred communication medium for establishments concerned about their image.
Coffee grounds packaging , a recent innovation, combines PP/PE resin and recycled grounds. Able to withstand high temperatures (up to 100°C), they are ideal for heating dishes in the microwave, offering a practical and ecological solution.
Which packaging should you choose depending on the type of dish?
Sandwich bag or box?
When it comes to sandwiches, professionals have several options. Greaseproof food wrap is a sturdy solution that resists tearing and allows customers to enjoy their meal cleanly. Sandwich bags, available in plastic or kraft paper, have the advantage of being waterproof, protecting the contents from moisture.
Sandwich boxes, usually made of kraft cardboard, keep food fresh while making it easy to transport. Available in a variety of sizes, they fit all sandwich formats and can include a transparent window to showcase the food.
Wrap pot, the best protection?
If your restaurant or bakery offers Wraps, you will have several options. Some establishments settle for stretch film, which is certainly economical, but is not necessarily the best effect or the best grip for the customer. The most suitable product, specially developed for this dish, is the cylindrical wrap pot . It offers optimal protection while maintaining the shape of the product. It is made of cardboard and available in Kraft brown or white. Our products for Wrac are made in France.
What size and quality box for pizzas?
The pizza box is a must-have for takeout. Its specific design helps retain heat while preventing condensation from softening the dough. Kraft cardboard models, available in different sizes, adapt to all pizza formats, from individual to family-sized. Voussert offers a wide range of pizza boxes , the most common being 29x29 cm or 33x33 cm. These boxes are customizable from 9,000 units, which represents a low budget to convey your image in a simple way.
Which hamburger box? Size and material
For hamburgers, the hamburger case is the ideal solution. This container effectively protects the burger from handling and keeps all the ingredients in place during transport. Cardboard models with a secure closure system prevent sauce spillage while retaining heat. It also allows the customer to enjoy their hamburger. Voussert offers a wide range of hamburger boxes made in France. You'll find them made of cardboard and biodegradable sugarcane fiber.
What containers for salads?
The cardboard salad box, with its convenient format, helps keep raw vegetables fresh and prevents them from crushing during transport. Models with transparent lids provide visibility of the contents while ensuring an airtight seal.
For more elaborate cold dishes, compartmentalized trays allow you to separate the different elements of the preparation, thus avoiding unwanted mixing. Their airtightness guarantees no leaks, even when using sauces or vinaigrettes.
The pasta container, also called a pasta box or pot bucket, is a practical solution for takeaway pasta dishes. Its cylindrical shape and thermal capacity allow dishes to stay warm during transport. Models with a tight-fitting lid prevent sauce from spilling.
For stews and other hot dishes, takeaway boxes made of cardboard, round cardboard pots , or bagasse offer effective thermal insulation. Their heat resistance also allows customers to reheat their meals directly in the packaging if necessary.
Cardboard tray, the takeaway solution!
With the gradual disappearance of plastic packaging, kraft cardboard, a fully recyclable product, has become essential. The rectangular tray is available in 5 sizes, allowing you to serve all types of (non-liquid) food products for takeout or at the counter.
This tray is economical and ecological.
Made from quality 250 gram brown kraft cardboard, it takes up no storage space and feels good in the hand.
The charcuterie tray is still alive and well! Available in sizes from 40 grams to 3,000 grams and made of polystyrene, the charcuterie tray still has a wide range of uses, particularly in takeaway sales for caterers and charcutiers. It also still has its place for the classic portion of fries at an event. Be sure to recycle this container to promote a circular economy.
Food packaging standards and regulations
Packaging intended for food contact must meet strict standards to ensure consumer safety. In Europe, EC Regulation 1935/2004 establishes general requirements for all materials in contact with foodstuffs. These containers must not transfer any substances that could pose a danger to human health or alter the composition of the food.
In France, additional restrictions apply to the use of single-use plastics. Since January 1, 2023, certain plastic packaging has been banned for dine-in and takeaway restaurants, encouraging the adoption of more environmentally friendly solutions.
Professionals must therefore ensure that their packaging bears the "food contact" label or the pictogram representing a glass and a fork. This certification guarantees that the material has been tested and approved for safe food use.
Selection criteria for optimal takeaway packaging
Shape and size: The choice of packaging shape depends directly on the type of preparation to be packaged. For a classic sandwich, a rectangular container will be perfect, while a burger will require a more square box. The size must be adapted to the volume of the dish: a container that is too small risks crushing the preparation, while one that is too large will cause unwanted movement during transport.
Practicality and ease of use: Good takeout packaging should be easy to handle, both for staff and customers. Containers should be quick to assemble and easy to close to optimize order preparation time. Their size should also fit easily into delivery bags to prevent damage during transport.
Preservation of organoleptic qualities: The packaging must preserve the sensory characteristics of the dishes (taste, texture, smell) throughout the transport period. It must also maintain the correct temperature, whether the dishes are hot or cold. Good thermal insulation and effective sealing protect the food from external influences (heat, humidity, dust) that could affect its quality.
The environmental impact of food packaging: Faced with growing environmental concerns, takeaway food service professionals are turning to more environmentally friendly packaging solutions. Biodegradable and compostable materials, such as bagasse or kraft cardboard, significantly reduce the carbon footprint compared to traditional plastics.
Some establishments also offer deposit systems for reusable containers, thus limiting waste production. This approach, while more expensive to purchase, proves economically advantageous in the long run and enhances the brand image among a clientele increasingly sensitive to environmental issues.
Choosing eco-friendly packaging therefore represents a strategic investment for professionals, reconciling environmental responsibility and customer satisfaction.
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