In the food industry, packaging is more than just a container, it keeps the products fresh and protected. Whether it’s sweet honey, ice cream or prepping ingredients in a restaurant kitchen, the right storage solution can make all the difference. So, plastic tubs have become an essential storage tool across various segments of the food industry due to their versatility, durability and practicality.

What Are Plastic Tubs?

They are sturdy containers that are typically made from a type of plastic called polypropylene which is a common plastic with low density and high heat resistance. They come in various sizes and shapes, and they are lightweight and durable, so they can withstand the rigours of a busy food environment, be it a production facility, restaurant kitchen or commercial storage area. A well-designed and reliable plastic tub can be of the essence in any food-related business, so make sure that you’re equipped with them.

Where Can You Use Them?

Plastic tubs are incredibly versatile, making them useful in a variety of settings across the food industry. One prominent application is in the honey business. Honey is a natural product that needs to be stored in a way that prevents exposure to moisture and air which can degrade its quality so plastic tubs are definitely an option.

Their airtight seals keep the honey thick and prevent crystallisation, maintaining its smooth, flowing consistency. The durable nature of plastic tubs means they can be stacked and stored without risk of breakage, making them ideal for both short-term and long-term storage in honey-production facilities or small honey-producing places.

Furthermore, they can also be used in the ice cream industry. Ice cream requires storage at very low temperatures, and plastic tubs are designed to remain flexible and intact even when frozen. Unlike glass, which can shatter, or metal which can warp under extreme cold, plastic tubs retain their shape and integrity, ensuring that the ice cream inside remains perfectly preserved.

Moreover, it’s much easier to scoop from a plastic tub, a convenience that benefits the producer and the customer. The smooth interior of the tubs allows for every last bit of ice cream to be accessed without it sticking to the sides, making sure that there are no leftovers thrown. This makes it practical for commercial ice cream makers and smaller, artisanal producers.

Restaurants also rely heavily on plastic tubs. In a busy kitchen, these tubs are used to store prepped ingredients, sauces and leftovers. The ability to stack these tubs neatly helps save valuable space in refrigerators and freezers, an important factor in often-cramped restaurant kitchens.

Benefits

As mentioned, these tubs are quite versatile and can be used in many food-related facilities, but they also come with plenty more benefits. So, let’s explore them. One of the most important benefits is their ability to maintain the freshness of the contents. Airtight seals prevent exposure to air, moisture and contaminants, which can all compromise the quality of the food, the freshness and the taste.

They also offer excellent durability. They can withstand drops, rough handling and the rigours of transport without cracking or breaking. This extends their lifespan making them a cost-effective option for food businesses. They can also be used in a wide range of environments, from room-temperature storage to refrigeration and freezing. This makes them an excellent choice for different industries.

Another benefit is their lightweight nature. Unlike glass or metal containers, plastic tubs are easy to carry and transport, making handling more convenient. This is quite important where bulk quantities are involved. And last, but not least, is their visibility.

They are transparent, meaning you can see what is inside them and you won’t have to open the tub each time you are looking for a certain product or ingredient in the restaurant. They can also be labelled so that you can easily write what’s inside and even put the dates and everything. This helps you be more organised and spend less time looking for a particular product or ingredient.

Maintenance

To keep them for a longer period you are going to need to maintain them properly. It’s quite easy to do that, which is one of the reasons they are so popular in the food industry. Their maintenance involves regular washing and proper storage when the tubs are not in use.

Because plastic doesn’t rust or corrode, they don’t require any special treatments or coatings to maintain its integrity. Simply washing them with warm, soapy water and ensuring they are thoroughly dried before storage is usually sufficient to keep them in good condition. You also need to keep them in a clean, dry environment when not in use to make sure they stay clean.

Plastic tubs are indispensable storage solutions in the food industry, offering a combination of durability, practicality and versatility that makes them ideal for a wide range of applications. Whether you’re storing honey, and ice cream or working in a restaurant and storing ingredients, these tubs are a reliable way to maintain the quality and safety of your products. Remember to clean them regularly and you’ll have a dependable solution for storing all kinds of food products.