Which Food Storage Containers Are Best for Your Kitchen?

Food storage containers are essential to any commercial kitchen. There are different shapes, sizes, and materials, each with its own special function. Knowing which container to use for each of your food items is important for you to have a well-organized kitchen.

Common Food Storage Container Materials

Clear polycarbonate food storage container

Polycarbonate (Clear)

Crystal-clear clarity
Shatter-proof construction
Can withstand temperatures from -40 to 210 degrees Fahrenheit
Resists food acids and oils to maintain their clarity
Most expensive option

Translucent polypropylene food storage container

Polypropylene (Translucent)

Translucent appearance
100% Bisphenol-A (BPA) free food contact surface
Can withstand temperatures from -40 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit
High chemical resistance

White polyethylene food storage container

Polyethylene (White)

Solid white appearance
100% Bisphenol-A (BPA) free food contact surface
Can withstand temperatures from -40 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit
Impact, stain, and chemical resistant construction
Most economical option

Food Storage Container Shapes

Round Containers

Allows for faster cooling times
Minimizes food waste
Ideal for stirring sauces and soups

Square Containers

Maximizes storage space
Holds more product in a smaller area
Great for storing freshly-chopped fruits and vegetables

Food Storage Container Sizes

Small Containers

Available in capacities as small as 8 oz.
Great for storing low-volume ingredients

Medium Containers

Capacities range anywhere from 0.2 to 22 qt.
Great for storing individual ingredients or batches of finished recipes

Large Containers

Available in capacities as large as 12 gallons
Ideal for storing individual ingredients or prepped foods

Food Storage Container Features

Graduations/Measurements

Able to provide accurate measurements
Measurements are etched or printed on the exterior

Stackability

Stacking lugs allow for safe, stable stacking
Can stack with other containers of the same brand, or with similar brands

Other Types of Food Storage Containers

While there are food storage containers, there are also other unique containers that are used for specific purposes in the kitchen that are outside the realm of normal containers.

Food Storage Boxes

Keeps food fresh and organized
Can also be used to store tools or as warewashing tubs
Great for bulk applications or pre-prepared food

Pizza Dough Boxes

Great for proofing and storing pizza dough
Prevents crusting to increase storage life of dough
Can be paired with dollies for better transportation

Drain Boxes

Increase air circulation to keep food fresher longer
Keeps the contents and drained liquids separate
Drains or thaws products while reducing the risk of cross-contamination

Ingredient Bins

Great for bulk storage
Multiple compartment bins can be used for easier ingredient identification
Perfect height to slide under work tables

Spice Containers

Ideal for holding small, dry food items
Clear plastic construction for easy product identification
Lids easily twist on and off to keep ingredients fresh

Features of your Food Storage Container Lids

Use compatible lids for your food storage containers so your food can always be covered. This will keep it fresh and safe from harmful contaminants.

Cambro Seal Cover

Tight fitting and spill resistant
Inner and outer seal for superior protection
Compatible with select Cambro containers
Other available lids that enable you to tip the container upside-down without leaking

Snap-On Lids

Easy-on/easy-off for an airtight fit and spill-resistance
Less expensive
No leakage-free guarantee
Can be easily removed to keep food and ingredients uncomtaminated and organized

Color-Coded

Color-coded lids allow for fast lid identificaiton with one color per size
Are not liquid tight, but offer a snap-tight closure
The different colors can be used to separate foods and ingredients

Common Certifications for Food Storage Containers

NSF Listed - NSF International's primary function is to create sanitation safety standards for testing products. In most instances, restaurants will be required to have NSF Listed equipment and supplies to pass health inspections. NSF Certifications are noted on every product that meets these industry standards.

Dishwasher Safe - Most food storage containers are able to be cleaned by being put into a commercial dishwasher. While there are some types of items that can only be washed by hand, food storage containers are dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup quick and easy.

Freezer Safe - It can be important for food storage containers to be freezer safe. This means that they are able to withstand low temperature applications and are safe for freezer storage. This is especially helpful when you are storing foods that need to be kept at low temperatures.

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