Takeaway containers are an essential part of the fast food business. The UK public regularly choose takeaway meals, whether that is pizza, curry or fish and chips, and they often want to carry them home in a safe and secure container which will protect the food and make sure that it does not lose heat as it is carried. In the past, one of the most popular forms of container was the Styrofoam carton, which kept the meal hot but protected the carrier from the heat. These were popular for nearly 5 decades, but recently councils have tried to prevent them being used. Styrofoam is not biodegradable, and many public areas were being littered with these containers.
As a result of these new laws, fast food businesses have to choose other forms of container, particularly those which are biodegradable and yet still protect the food inside. Without these essential items, many fast food companies would not be able to supply the public with their wares, and could even go out of business. Fortunately, there are now a range of containers made from materials which are naturally biodegradable, including paper and products made from sugar-cane stalks, which are both acceptable to the public, and to local councils.
Companies need a container which is simple and easy to use, and which will keep the customer happy at the other end. Containers such as those made from Bagasse are now widely available, and can keep food warm and dry while it is being carried away. These containers can even be opened in the street and the food consumed there, much like the traditional Styrofoam containers. It is also possible to find heavy duty paper containers which are able to support food even when it has sauce or oils on it.