Disposable catering trays

Disposable catering trays are containers or trays used in the catering industry that are intended for disposable use and are then removed.  They are made of different materials such as plastic, paper or polystyrene foam.

Disposable catering trays are popular for their convenience and practicality. They are easy to use, do not need to be washed and can be quickly removed after use, which is convenient for events, banquets or conferences where quick service is needed.

rPET catering trays

rPET catering trays (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) are trays made from recycled PET material. PET is a plastic often used in packaging such as bottles.

rPET catering trays are manufactured from secondary raw materials, i.e. recovered PET bottles. The PET recycling process involves collecting used bottles, which are then cleaned, shredded and processed into PET pellets. This granulate is used to produce rPET catering trays.

The use of recycled PET has several benefits. Firstly, it allows plastic to be reused and reduces the amount of waste going to landfill. Secondly, recycling PET helps to reduce the consumption of natural resources and the energy required to produce new plastic.

rPET catering trays are typically robust, lightweight and transparent, making them visually attractive and practical to use. They are commonly used in the catering industry to serve different types of food at parties, banquets and other events.

It is also important to highlight that PET recycling has its limitations, so it is also important to promote other forms of waste reduction, such as reducing the use of single-use packaging and looking for alternative biodegradable or compostable materials.

Ecological compostable and biodegradable catering trays

Eco-compostable and biodegradable catering trays are trays that have been specially designed to decompose under natural conditions, helping to minimise the negative impact on the environment. Here is some information on the subject:

1. Compostable catering trays: compostable trays are made of materials that can biodegrade in a composting plant. In the presence of the right conditions, such as the right temperature, humidity and presence of micro-organisms, these trays decompose and turn into compost. Compost is an organic fertiliser that can be used to improve soil quality.

2. Biodegradable catering trays: biodegradable trays decompose biologically under natural conditions such as soil or aquatic environments. Under the influence of microorganisms and environmental factors, these trays break down into smaller components until they are completely mineralised. As a result, they leave no permanent residue and do not create waste that would pollute the environment.

However, it is worth bearing in mind that the terms 'compostable' and 'biodegradable' can vary depending on specific standards and certifications. Before purchasing catering trays labelled as compostable or biodegradable, it is a good idea to check that they meet the relevant standards and are certified for their properties.

Compostable and biodegradable catering trays are more environmentally friendly than traditional trays made of plastic, as they help to reduce waste and have less impact on pollution.