Alternatives to disposable takeaway and plastic to go containers

• Plastic to go containers, commonly used for takeaway and restaurant leftovers, are typically made from low-density polyethylene or polypropylene, both contributors to microplastic exposure.
• Plastic containers are especially dangerous when storing hot or acidic foods.
• If you are in the food industry, consider opting for paper-based containers to limit microplastic contamination. 

Plastic to go containers leach microplastics into your food.

You might have noticed the prevalence of plastic food containers when ordering takeout. These containers are typically made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or polypropylene (PP), both of which can be responsible for leaching microplastics into your food.

Microplastics exposure can negatively impact physical and cognitive health, disrupt hormones, reduce fertility, and even cause cancer.

{{what-are-microplastics-and-their-health-effects-on-humans}}

Making matters even worse, takeout leftovers (which are commonly kept in their single-use containers) are often microwaved, increasing microplastic contamination.

{{why-you-need-to-stop-microwaving-plastic}}

How to avoid plastic takeaway containers.

An unfortunate reality of ordering takeout is that, more likely than not, you will be served food in plastic containers. Ideally, reduce how often you eat from establishments that exclusively use plastic to limit your microplastic consumption, and remember that limiting microplastic exposure is about controlling what you can.

Next time you anticipate bringing home leftovers from a restaurant, you can try bringing and requesting the use of your own glass tupperware. If that is not an option, move your leftovers to a glass container as soon as you get home to prevent further microplastic contamination.

{{top-glass-tupperware-sets-to-reduce-microplastics-in-2024}}

If you are a business owner, try to swap out plastic for paper-based containers instead.

The general education on microplastics and their effects are growing, so if you run your own establishment, switching to paper-based containers will not only keep your customers safe but also be well appreciated by those who are conscious of microplastic effects.

The best non-plastic paper to go containers.

Fortunately, paper-based to go containers are widely available and cheap.

{{ecolipak-9x6in-clamshell-take-out-food-containers-500-pack}}

If you need more options for paper food containers outside of Amazon, I would recommend contacting your local wholesale food utility services for discounting prices. 

Are all paper-based containers truly plastic-free?

Not all paper containers (and cups) are made equal. For instance, most paper cups are lined with plastic to be waterproof and prevent leaking, which is both misleading and once again a contributor to microplastic exposure.

Check out our article on the truth behind ‘paper’ cups and plates.

{{not-all-paper-cups-and-plates-are-plastic-free}}