
In today’s day and age, convenience is key. And that carries over into food service.
There’s no doubt about it. Leftover food that can be reheated right in the leftover container is just plain convenient for your customer! That’s one less dirty dish for them to clean.
Microwave safe leftover containers are a premium feature for your restaurant. But what exactly makes a container microwave safe? We answer that question in addition to other benefits of microwave safe containers below!
What Makes a Container Microwave Safe?
Not all plastic containers are created equal. There are many different types of plastics used for food containers, and just because a container looks microwave safe doesn’t necessarily mean it is.
The truth is, there is no federal regulation that determines which plastics are considered microwave safe vs unsafe. That designation is up to the manufacturer to decide and label.
However, there are some characteristics that set microwave safe plastic containers apart from the rest. Generally speaking, plastic containers that are safe in the microwave are sturdy, resistant to high temperatures, and after microwaving still feels cool to the touch. Containers made from polypropylene, or plastic #5–like our Clover and ProView containers–are generally considered microwave safe. Containers made from polystyrene, or plastic #7–like styrofoam–are not.
Unsure if your Genpak container is microwave safe? Check out our past blog on ‘How To Tell If a Container Is Safe to Microwave.’
Additional Benefits of Microwave Safe Containers
Besides convenience, there’s a few other pluses to microwave safe leftover containers you may not have thought about…
Customers Can Re-Use for Leftovers at Home
For eco conscious customers looking to reduce their waste, microwavable containers are sturdy enough to be washed, re-used, and reheated again!
It’s Dishwasher Safe Too
If a plastic container is microwave safe, it is most likely top-rack dishwasher safe, too. That means you don’t have to hand wash it. It can go right in the dishwasher with your dinner dishes!
It’s The Green Choice
Microwavable containers are ultimately a greener choice for your customers because they can be reused again and again, which reduces disposable container waste, and saves valuable resources.
Shop Our Microwave Safe Takeout & Leftover Containers
Want a container that looks great and can stand up to the heat of the microwave? Genpak has a microwave safe container for every food application. Shop our microwave safe containers including our Clover and ProView lines!