Enjoying a high popularity across the globe, Chinese food has an unending demand. With its unique flavors and light taste, it is a preferred choice of many.
The recipes are available across the internet and thus, people sitting in any corner of the world can enjoy the tantalizing aroma and taste of these delicious food items. However, when it comes to their fine presentation, nothing can beat the highly functional and interactive Chinese takeout boxes.
These boxes are an American invention and are primarily used for storing Chinese and fast-food items. Including several sections for proper segregation of food, these boxes present a perfect tale of the brand’s culture and vision. Embedding tech and interactive features to the packaging make it serve as the brand’s robust marketing tool.
Here, let’s discuss the famous types of custom printed Chinese takeout boxes, their brief history, material choice, and contribution to society.
COMMON TYPES
1. The Timeless Oyster-Pail Boxes
One of the most popular types of Chinese food boxes, these are the iconic and all-time brand favorite boxes and the most recognizable ones. Consisting of white folded cardboard and a handle to assist while carrying, these boxes were invented by Wilcox in 1894.
These were primarily made to hold oysters, with a leak-proof nature and a perfect design that makes them ideal for carrying food items. With a highly functional design, these boxes have paved the way for revolution in the food industry, eliminating the need for using any extra plates for consuming food, as they can be consumed directly from the box, sitting anywhere.
These boxes are microwave-friendly and can be used to heat the food items without the need to transfer them to a separate plate first.
Key Features
- Folding Origami Style
- Interlocking Flaps for Stability
- Wire Handle
- Single Piece Plastic in Composition
- Might Come with Chinese-inspired designs and Fonts
2. The Modern Plastic Containers
With the rising concerns of the customers for the safety of their surroundings, brands also started becoming aware of their choices. With the advent of eco-friendly and sustainable materials, these boxes have come a long way, transitioning into plastic containers.
One argument that comes here is their comparison with the timeless charm of the oyster-pail boxes, and this becomes a long debate with numerous perspectives.
Common types of plastic containers include Polypropylene (PP) containers- which are heat-resistant and recyclable, Polystyrene (PS) containers- which are lightweight but less eco-friendly, and PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) containers= that are commonly used for cold dishes and salads.
Key Features
- A transparent clear window for food overview
- Microwave-friendly
- Safe for reuse
- Durability and leak-proof
3. Eco-Friendly Boxes
Taking the eco-friendly initiatives, following a green approach, and using sustainable materials that don’t cause any harm to the surroundings, Chinese takeout boxes come in a large number of options such as biodegradable boxes made from sugarcane bagasse, or bamboo, Compostable boxes for a nostalgic touch and reduced carbon emission, Recycled paper boxes that are made from post-consumer recycled paper, and Reusable Containers.
- Showcases the brand’s commitment to society
- Specially-designed insulated boxes
- Help to reduce the carbon footprint
- Made from recyclable and bio-degradable material
4. Region-Based Differences
These boxes have their usage across different parts of the world. In the US, oyster pail is dominant, in the UK, tall and rectangular Noodle boxes made of cardboard are seen, that are ideal for stir-fried food items and noodles and might feature a handle as well, for added support.
In Australia, foil containers are used that come with a cardboard lid and are excellent for maintaining the temperature during food transit. In China, plastic bowls are used for soups and rice dishes, and several other variations of these boxes are used, such as Styrofoam boxes.
5. Innovation in Chinese Takeout Packaging
As we look at the recent innovation in Chinese boxes as well as the upcoming trends, we can see the inclusion of smart and digital tech, that is further shaping the bright future of these boxes. Brands are working on more refined looks and interactive boxes.
QR codes are added by many of them to provide brand and product-related information and reorder from the same brand. Similarly, temperature-related controls can also be added to them to ensure maximum safety of food items. To enable contactless payment, NFC tags can also be added to these boxes.
Zero-Waste Movement
Many of the restaurants use them as a branding tool that depicts the restaurant’s story. To further add a fin touch, they can also collaborate with local artists. Not to forget, many brands have adopted the “Zero-Waste” Movement that encourages the use of edible Chinese takeout packaging boxes that can easily be dissolved in water and are made from ingredients such as seaweed.
Using smart devices, consumers can simply scan the QR code and enjoy instant access to the brand’s official profile where they can learn and explore the brand’s core offerings and additional insights.
Summing up, from oyster pails to plastic and sustainable packaging, these boxes have come a long way, reflecting the brand’s commitment to eco-safety and quality standards. These are the core reflection of the ever-changing food and packaging trends and have become a top symbol of excellent food packaging. Whether it’s Kung Pao or Red Dragon Chicken, the next time we savor our favorite food, don’t forget to toast out to these functional and versatile Chinese takeout boxes. In every flap of the box, these contain a complete story of cultural innovation and human creativity.