Introduction

In the fast-paced foodservice industry, food trays are indispensable. From takeaway meals to supermarket cold-chain packaging and catering services, the right tray can directly impact food safety, presentation, and customer satisfaction.

Among available materials, polypropylene (PP) food trays stand out for their durability, safety, and eco-friendly qualities. PP trays remain the top choice for restaurants, catering providers, and supermarkets worldwide.

This guide provides an in-depth look at PP food trays—their benefits, applications, sustainability role, and why DASHAN is a trusted global manufacturer.

I. What Are PP Food Trays?

Polypropylene (PP) is a thermoplastic polymer widely used in food packaging because it is lightweight, durable, and food-safe. PP trays come in several common structural designs:

  • Disposable PP Trays → Used in fast-food restaurants and catering services.

  • Compartmentalized PP Trays → Divided sections for balanced meals.

  • Lidded PP Trays → Leak-proof designs ideal for takeaway and delivery.

Material Characteristics of PP Trays:

  • Microwave-safe up to 120°C.

  • Freezer-safe for chilled or frozen storage.

  • Available in various colors, including transparent for food visibility.

👉 These features make PP trays versatile enough for everyday use in foodservice and retail.

II. Advantages of PP Food Trays

1. Food Safety

  • Certified as food-grade (FDA, SGS, LFGB).

  • Resistant to oil, moisture, and contaminants.

  • BPA-free and non-toxic for direct food contact.

2. Durability & Performance

  • Withstands reheating in microwaves.

  • Performs well in refrigeration and freezing.

  • Leak-proof when paired with lids.

3. Eco-Friendly Benefits

  • Recyclable (#5) → accepted in many municipal systems.

  • Lighter than many alternatives, lowering shipping emissions.

  • Can be reused before recycling, supporting circular economy practices.

4. Branding & Customization

  • Available in different shapes, colors, and sizes.

  • Can be customized with logos, embossing, or labeling.

III. Use Cases for PP Food Trays

  1. Restaurants & Catering

    • Multi-compartment trays for portion-controlled meals.

    • Sturdy designs enhance professional food presentation.

  2. Takeaway & Delivery

    • Microwave-safe trays enable reheating.

    • Leak-proof designs reduce delivery risks.

  3. Supermarkets

    • Clear-lid PP trays for fresh produce and ready meals.

    • Tamper-evident packaging builds consumer trust.

  4. Buffets & Events

    • Disposable trays for large gatherings.

    • Cost-effective, hygienic, and easy to manage.

IV. Expert Insights

“Polypropylene trays are one of the few packaging options that satisfy both food safety and business efficiency. Their durability and recyclability make them a smart choice for 2025 and beyond.”
— Dr. Helena Ruiz, Materials Scientist (Springer Journals)

“Consumers demand packaging that reassures them about hygiene while being eco-friendly. PP trays meet this balance better than most alternatives.”
— James Lee, Packaging Analyst (Packaging Insights)

V. Case Studies

Case Study 1: Supermarket Cold Chain

A leading Asian supermarket chain adopted compartmentalized PP trays with clear lids for cold-chain ready meals. The results included:

  • Extended shelf life with tamper-evident packaging.

  • 15% sales growth in ready meals, attributed to higher consumer trust.

Case Study 2: Takeout Restaurants

A North American fast-casual chain switched to lidded PP trays for hot dishes. Customer feedback revealed:

  • 30% fewer complaints about leaks.

  • Increased repeat orders due to better presentation.

Case Study 3: Catering Services

A European catering company adopted black PP trays with transparent lids for corporate events. The impact:

  • Improved food aesthetics for buffets.

  • Repeat contracts with high-profile clients thanks to professional presentation.

VI. PP Trays vs. Other Food Tray Materials

Feature PP Trays PET Trays Bagasse Trays Aluminum Trays
Microwave Safe ✔ Yes ✘ No ✔ Yes ✔ Yes
Recyclable ✔ Yes (#5) ✔ Yes (#1) Compostable Only ✔ Yes
Compostable ✘ No ✘ No ✔ Yes ✘ No
Cost-Effectiveness ✔ High Medium Medium/High Medium
Durability ✔ High Medium (brittle) Medium High (heavier)
Customization ✔ Excellent Good Limited Limited

👉 Compared to alternatives, PP trays provide the best overall balance of safety, cost-efficiency, and customization.

VII. Sustainability Factors

  • Light weighting → Less material usage per tray.

  • Recyclable mono-material designs → Simplifies waste processing.

  • Recycled PP  integration → Supports circular economy.

  • Reusable models → PP trays can be washed and reused before recycling.

VIII. DASHAN — Professional PP Tray Manufacturer

XIAMEN DASHAN NEW MATERIALS CO., LTD is a professional food packaging manufacturer with more than 10 years of experience producing PP trays and other eco-friendly products.

Why businesses choose DASHAN:

  • Certified by FDA, SGS, LFGB, ISO 9001 & 14001.

  • Global reach → Exporting to 60+ countries.

  • OEM/ODM customization → Logos, embossing, colors, and custom designs.

  • Full product line → PP trays, cups, plates, clamshells, and lids.

👉 Learn more: Company Profile

FAQ

1. Are PP trays microwave safe?
Yes, PP trays withstand heating up to 120°C.

2. Can PP trays be recycled?
Yes, PP trays are recyclable (#5).

3. Do PP trays keep food fresh?
Yes, PP trays with clear lids help maintain freshness while showcasing food.

4. Can PP trays be branded with logos?
Yes, DASHAN provides OEM/ODM customization.

5. Why choose PP trays over bagasse or PET?
Because PP trays deliver better durability, lower costs, and reliable food safety.

Conclusion

In 2025, PP food trays remain one of the safest, most versatile, and eco-friendly packaging solutions. They combine durability, food safety, and recyclability to meet the demands of supermarkets, restaurants, caterers, and events.

With certified quality and global customization services, DASHAN is a trusted manufacturer delivering PP food tray solutions for businesses worldwide.

👉 Contact DASHAN today to explore your tailored PP tray options.

References

  1. FDA — Food Contact Substances & Safety https://www.fda.gov

  2. SGS — Food Packaging Testing Services https://www.sgs.com

  3. EPA — Containers and Packaging Data https://www.epa.gov

  4. Springer — Polypropylene in Food Packaging https://link.springer.com

  5. Packaging Insights — Future of Food Packaging https://www.packaginginsights.com

  6. McKinsey — Packaging and Sustainability Trends https://www.mckinsey.com

  7. Food Packaging Forum — Consumer Perceptions of Packaging Safety https://www.foodpackagingforum.org

  8. Ellen MacArthur Foundation — Plastics and the Circular Economy https://ellenmacarthurfoundation.org

  9. NielsenIQ — Packaging Design and Consumer Impact https://nielseniq.com

  10. DASHAN — Company Profile https://www.dashanpacking.com/company-profile/