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Disposable Dinnerware Buying Guide

Last updated on Jul 9, 2024
Choosing the right type of disposable dinnerware is a big decision for your business. Simplify your selection process by learning about the various options available, including the benefits and limitations, so that you can choose the best fit for your business!

Pros and Cons to Disposable Dinnerware

Adding convenience, disposable dinnerware eliminates the fear of breakage that comes with glass, china, or porcelain dinnerware. Plus, it cuts down on cleanup time. Consider the below when looking to use it in your food service business:

BENEFITS
LIMITATIONS

Plastic

  • Leak-proof design
  • Cut-resistant and non-absorbent
  • Many color options available
  • Not as eco-friendly as other products
  • More expensive option

Foam

  • Takes less energy to create than paper alternatives
  • Lightweight and inexpensive
  • Strong insulating abilities
  • Does not break down
  • Non-microwaveable

Paper

  • Uses less storage space than other options
  • Most items available are microwave-safe
  • Environmentally-friendly design compared to other materials
  • Uncoated products may absorb grease and other food remnants
  • May bend or fold when used with heavy food
Restaurant Equipment

Looking for a more sustainable dinnerware choice to create or uphold a "green" image at your event? If that's the case then our vast selection of eco-friendly plates, platters, bowls, and trays is sure to capture your attention! Additionally, with many cities moving to ban Styrofoam and single-use plastics, making the switch to eco-friendly products is more popular than ever.

It's important to understand the characteristics and different features of these eco-friendly products. Eco-friendly materials include bamboo, wood, and palm leaves. To understand the full range of options and materials, check out this Green Disposable Dinnerware Guide.

 

Made from high-quality, renewable materials, our selection of eco-friendly dinnerware helps cut down on landfill buildup. In addition to all these "green" qualities, these products are still manufactured with the customers' needs in mind, meaning they don't sacrifice all the great benefits of traditional disposable dinnerware.

Looking to supply an upscale event or searching for a disposable material with a lot of options for decorating purposes? Then plastic dinnerware is the choice for you! From casual everyday settings to special occasions, there is a variety of styles to meet your application needs. Since it is leak-proof, cut-resistant, and non-absorbent, this dinnerware is a reliable option. It also comes in a diverse array of style options, from plastic plates with bands to scalloped or wavy edged.

Our plastic dinnerware has the convenience of plastic with the elegant look of china. Coming in vibrant colors, we offer bowls and plates that can be mixed and matched for a complete meal setting. For special occasions, consider even using these serving bowls or this perfectly portioned petite plastic dinnerware. This allows guests to self-serve anything from dips to large salads, or sample delicious appetizers and sweet samplers.

Restaurant Equipment

Serving & Display Ware

If you're supplying dinnerware for a casual setting, foam dinnerware is the perfect option. Great for barbecues or picnics, our foam dinnerware offers excellent insulation and temperature retention, while being lightweight and strong enough to hold full meals and entrees. Coming in basic colors like black, white, and beige, it will blend in perfectly with your other decorations and accessories. Plus, with our plates and bowls it's easy to create a complete table setting.

With brands like Dart Solo and Genpak, you can rest assured that this foam dinnerware will provide reliable use. Whether you need a basic and simple non-laminated piece to a superior non-absorbency, cut-resistance insulated item, we have something for you! This dinnerware will ensure your food is served at just the right temperature.

Paper Dinnerware

Are space-efficiency and eco-friendly products high priorities for your business? If so, then paper dinnerwarepaper dinnerware is a great choice for you! With its thinner and more flexible construction in comparison to other disposable dinnerware options, paper dinnerware stacks extremely well and can fit in cabinets, on shelves, and in other tight areas. Additionally, since many are microwave safe, it's easy to reheat products and serve them all on the same dish. Another great feature of our paper selection, is that most items are compostable!

Most important to note with paper disposable options is that you can purchase a variety of paper materials. Each type has its own set of benefits that you'll want to consider to find the best fit to match your application needs. Consider the following materials below:

MATERIAL
BENEFITS
Coated
  • Higher resistance to liquids and grease
  • Great for heavier, saucy foods like tender meat or pasta
Corrugated Paperboard
  • Cut- and leak-resistant surface great for saucy food product
  • 3-ply, multi-layer construction is sturdy and works well for events
Sugarcane / Bagasse
  • Breaks down without causing environmental harm
  • Premium and sturdy, natural feel
Wheat Fiber
  • Naturally breaks down into rich organic material in a compost facility
  • Attractive, natural-looking presentation adds an elegant touch
Uncoated
  • More eco-friendly than plastic
  • Cost effective, economical option for your business

Perfect for events, these plates are handy for side salads, appetizers, or entrees. Some styles even provide compartments, which is helpful with portion control and keeping products separate. Light and easy for guests to carry, paper dinnerware can also match your decor with ease. Coming in color options ranging from basic shades to bright and vibrant colors, paper disposables are a timeless solution!

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Please refer to our Content Policy for more details.

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