Differences Between the Plastics Used for Food Storage

Polycarbonate – Clear or Black

Example: Cambro 4SFSCW 4 Quart Square Food Storage Container

• Used for cold or room temperature product storage and cold food counter displays
• Has a temperature rating of -40º to 210º F but may become brittle when frozen
• A hard rigid plastic also referred to as Lexan
• Stronger than polypropylene
• Cannot tolerate harsh chemicals for cleaning
• Not intended for heating food
• Contains BPA which is currently under fire by the Government as having adverse health effects due to the chemical leeching into the food products regardless of subjected temperature
• Dishwasher safe
• Not biodegradable
• NSF Certified

Polypropylene – Translucent/Opaque

Example: Cambro 4SFSPP 4 Quart Square Translucent Food Storage Container

• Used for cold and frozen product storage only
• Rugged and unusually resistant to many chemical solvents, bases, acids, fatigue and cold temperatures
• Not intended for heating food
• Also referred to as PP which has been classified as having a low to moderate risk for possible health concerns when exposed to higher temperatures
• Dishwasher safe however over time this will warp and oxidize
• Biodegradable
• NSF Certified

Polyethylene – White

Example: Cambro 4SFSP 4 Quart Square Poly Food Storage Container

• Used for cold, frozen and dry product storage
• The most commonly used plastic in food storage with an excellent resistance to chemicals and stains
• Will not withstand high product temperature
• Dishwasher and freezer safe
• Not biodegradable
• NSF Certified

Polysulfone – Varies in Color

Example: Cambro 42HP 1/4 Size High Heat Plastic Food Pans – 2" Deep

• Primarily used for hot food storage and warming, though is excellent for cold and frozen product as well
• Superior toughness and stability at low -40 º and high 375 ºF temperatures
• Cambro AmberWill not bend or dent
• Harsh chemicals such as bleach will not compromise the material
• Costly due to expense of raw materials but does not pose any known health risks
• Dishwasher safe
• Not biodegradable
• Currently offered for food storage only by Cambro Manufacturing
• NSF certified and FDA approved

ABS Plastic – Varies in Color

Example: Carlisle CM110003 Coldmaster Food Pan – Full Size x 6" Deep

• Most often used for insulated food crocks to keep ice cream and other cold food products to temperature longer for food displays
• Shiny, impervious surface which is impact resistant though not scratch resistant
• An excellent insulator and may be died any color
• Breaks down in sunlight
• ABS Plastic can be dishwasher safe and will vary by product
• NSF Certified

If you need help determining what plastics and food storage container options fit your needs,  contact us or call us at 800-972-4972. We'd be happy to help.