Packing food for delivery is not a mindless task, especially for those who might depend on food delivery as an income source. Online food delivery has increased in recent years and will not be slowing down anytime soon. The presentation can heavily influence the consumer’s likelihood of ordering from a restaurant when dining out or ordering in. That is just one reason why packaging is no empty-minded step in food delivery. Whether food delivery is a part of your everyday life or you’re only packing some treats for a loved one across town, there are numerous steps you should take to ensure food arrives fresh and aesthetically pleasing.
Challenges When Packaging Food for Delivery
Anytime food is packaged for delivery, the recipient should rest assured the proper measures are taken to keep food fresh. Packaging makes a significant difference, especially for delivery personnel handling numerous orders. Methodical food delivery packaging can prevent cross-contamination, keep food items delicious-looking and tasting, and help increase potential profits. There are a few problems that can arise when food packaging isn’t taken seriously for deliveries. Luckily, many of these are preventable. These issues include items shifting around and food becoming unappealing within its container. Foods also might become cold or stale due to being exposed during transit. Add those factors to the less controllable speed of delivery, and we can understand how packaging food properly is imperative for food to arrive palatable and presentable.
Food Packaging & Delivery Tips
Despite packaging food for delivery having its unique challenges, food delivery has become an entrenched element of culture because we figured out what techniques work best. Choosing food-safe packing supplies made from the proper materials can keep food fresh and tasty. Explore some of the most effective methods for packaging delivery foods.
Separate Hot and Cold Food Items
Food delivery packaging is all about keeping foods at their desired temperatures for as long as possible. This is why you shouldn’t place cold items next to hot foods and vice versa. Temperature regulation becomes much more complicated when sitting next to a conflicting temperature. While separating those, it’s also a good idea to place all sauces together on the side to prevent any leaks from ruining food. Food items should be individually packaged, then grouped based on category and temperature needs. Another advantage to carefully grouping food items is that it gives the recipient more control over their dining experience.
Package Using Food-Appropriate Supplies
Nowadays, we have numerous options for take-out boxes and to-go containers for food delivery. When you package food for delivery, grocery-specific packaging supplies can keep items fresh and well-contained at the same time. Perfect for meals that contain numerous side items, these smaller food containers can help trap temperatures with a splash of cohesive design. This is when it’s important to consider packaging materials based on whatever food is packaged. Generally, plastic and paper packaging supplies will be your best bet.
Plastic offers protection for food but can trap moisture quickly, not ideal for food that should avoid sogginess. Food-safe paper and cardboard packaging are the most popular choice due to their sustainability, customizable printing capabilities, and durability for heavier food items. This is why you see pizza delivery services providing insulated pizza boxes. Many restaurants use takeout containers made of a combination of these materials to ensure food is packaged thoroughly.
Keep Foods Warm During Delivery
When completing packaging food deliveries, it’s common to use numerous packing materials outside of what is used to wrap up the food. Even after the food has been mindfully packaged and sorted, insulated food containers are suggested to keep food fresh during delivery. Especially for those living in hot or humid climates, having a separate insulating layer can help prevent any spoilage along the way. This could be a cooler or insulated container where orders can be organized and protected. Soft-loop plastic bags are a popular packaging choice because food maintains its temperature easier.