It is a given that restaurants need to ensure that the packaging of their food is not substandard, otherwise, it will probably leave customers feeling disappointed with the lack of quality control. With an ideal restaurant food packaging, you food is sure to be kept intact, warm and ready-to-eat right from the restaurant kitchen all the way to the customer’s door. However, it is not only about practicality that the restaurants should be focusing on but also on the aspect of safety. In light of the global pandemic, many restaurants were forced to close shut their doors to dine – in services and instead, had to resort to takeout and delivery services. As such, people now, have become increasingly mindful about the standards and the quality of packaging. In the following article, we will be outlining the various factors to keep in mind when opting for restaurant food packing:-
- Protection against possible cross contamination
Cross – contamination typically happens if there is a transfer of bacteria or even other detrimental microorganisms from equipment, food or people which goes onto the food. This could happen during any stage of the production of food, which includes the packaging of the food for takeout and even delivery. Sturdy food packaging such as in the case of tamper – proof containers, helps to protect food from any cross – contamination which could occur during the time of transfer of food from the respective restaurant to the customer.
- Makes the food visually appealing
When food looks appetising, chances are that we feel more inclined towards eating it. Packaging that is very aptly carried out, it will appear as enticing as it would in the restaurant. Just imagine how much more eye –catching takeaway sushi would appear if all the rolls are placed right side up as opposed to when they are all smeared.
- Helps to control the temperature
Having cold food delivered to you is unacceptable so fresh, quality and temperature are all elements that go hand in hand when having the food delivered to the customer. As such, cold and hot food should be packaged separately. This is so that each of the dishes arrives at the exact temperature that it should be enjoyed at.
- Allows restaurants to charge a certain premium
Food that is well – packaged will allow restaurants to charge extra money because there is a sense of a greater perceived value associated with it.
- Helps to project your brand identity
Packaging serves as a marketing tactic that helps the customers to identity with the enterprise by undertaking the smart use of design, colour and copy. For example, if your restaurant is known to have a very quirky theme then you could design packaging that would best reflect this specific brand personality.
Factors that may determine the type of packaging at your restaurant
- Choosing the materials
Opting for the ideal materials is often the first step in the right direction when it comes to choosing the correct restaurant food packaging. One can choose from a plethora of different materials namely, cardboard, plastic, Styrofoam etc.
- Sustainable packaging
There is an increasing environmental awareness which has prompted customers to urge restaurants and companies to be transparent about the products that they sell. As such, certain restaurants have faced pressure from customers to adopt a more sustainable approach to their packaging methods.
- Minimalistic packaging
People have taken to this trend of minimalism because of which, restaurants are now using packaging that is devoid of any unnecessary materials as well as cluttered designs.
