Introduction
In a foodservice world increasingly shaped by sustainability, safety, and functionality, PP (Polypropylene) compartment food containers are fast emerging as the go-to solution. Designed to hold multiple food items separately within one package, these divided containers are not only microwave-safe and leak-resistant but also compliant with global food safety standards. From restaurants and cloud kitchens to school lunch programmes and export-ready meal kits, PP containers offer a smart, scalable solution.
What Makes PP Ideal for Compartment Trays?
Key Material Features
- Temperature Resistant: PP can withstand up to 120°C, making it microwaveable and suitable for hot foods.
- Tough Yet Light: Strong enough to hold solid meals, light enough for cost-effective shipping.
- Odourless and Safe: Certified food-grade PP doesn’t react with acidic or oily foods.
- Recyclable: Widely accepted in global recycling streams (Plastic code #5).
Ideal Use Cases
- Airline and train meal trays
- Takeaway lunch boxes
- Frozen ready-meal kits
- Hospital and school lunch programmes
Comparison with Other Materials
| Feature | PP Compartment Tray | PET Tray | Foam Tray | Paper Pulp Tray |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Microwave-Safe | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ⚠️ Partially | ⚠️ Depends on lining |
| Temperature Tolerance | High (up to 120°C) | Low | Low | Moderate |
| Leak-Proof | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ⚠️ Limited |
| Recyclable | ✅ Yes (Code 5) | ✅ Yes (Code 1) | ❌ No | ⚠️ Industrial only |
| Compartment Ready | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Rare | ❌ No | ⚠️ Custom needed |
Xiamen Dashan’s PP Compartment Containers
Xiamen Dashan New Materials Co., Ltd. offers a wide range of PP-based food containers that combine functionality with safety:
- Multi-compartment designs: 2, 3, 4, and 5-cell trays available
- High clarity or matte finish lids for secure sealing
- Custom branding and tray sizing available
- Certified food-safe (compliant with EU/FDA/China GB standards)
- Strong supply chain capacity for bulk orders and global export.
For more information, please click here pp-lunch-box.
Case Study – Food Delivery Brand Switches to PP Trays
Client: Mid-sized cloud kitchen in Southeast Asia
Previous Packaging: Paper-based bento boxes (leaked under steam)
Solution: Switched to 3-compartment PP trays from Dashan
Result: 30% drop in packaging complaints, 22% increase in reorder rate from B2B partners
Feedback: “We were able to send out hot meals faster and with fewer customer issues.”
Regulatory Fit
- Meets FDA/EFSA standards for food contact
- Complies with China’s GB 4806.7-2016 standard
- Accepted in most plastic recycling systems
Export-Ready Packaging
Dashan offers export documentation, certifications, and barcode-ready packaging that suits distributors and international wholesalers.
FAQs
1. Are PP containers safe in the microwave?
Yes, they are designed to tolerate high temperatures without warping or releasing toxins.
2. Can I use PP trays for cold storage?
Absolutely. PP remains stable in freezers as well.
3. Are PP containers dishwasher-safe?
Yes, they can be washed and reused multiple times.
4. Are they suitable for automated sealing machines?
Yes, especially with PP-compatible sealing films.
5. Do PP containers support branding?
Yes. Dashan offers custom moulds and embossing options.
Conclusion
With global food regulations tightening and customer expectations rising, PP compartment food containers present a powerful solution. Whether you’re a foodservice operator, exporter, or packaging buyer, PP trays provide the safety, durability, and compliance needed to scale confidently. Partner with manufacturers like Xiamen Dashan to ensure high-quality, customised solutions tailored to your needs.
References
- OECD (2022). “Global Plastic Waste Outlook.” https://www.oecd.org/environment/global-plastics-outlook/
- FDA Code of Federal Regulations Title 21. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21
- China GB 4806.7-2016 Standard for Food Contact Plastic. http://www.nifdc.org.cn/
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). https://www.efsa.europa.eu/
- Plastics Europe (2023). “PP Material Profile.” https://plasticseurope.org/
- McKinsey & Company. “Packaging Sustainability Report.” https://www.mckinsey.com/
- Xiamen Dashan Official Site. https://www.dasanplastic.com/
- Packaging Digest. “Food Tray Innovations.” https://www.packagingdigest.com/
- Springer Materials. “Thermal Resistance of Polypropylene.” https://materials.springer.com/
- FoodNavigator Asia. “Food Packaging Trends in Asia.” https://www.foodnavigator-asia.com/
