Food trays carry everything from deli portions and meat to hot mains and grab-and-go meals, and the material you choose affects cost, presentation, food safety, and even whether you stay compliant with Canadian packaging rules. Here is how the main tray materials compare.
Foam (polystyrene) trays
Foam trays have long been popular for their low cost, light weight, and insulation. The catch: foam is made from expanded polystyrene, one of the problematic plastics targeted by Canada's single-use plastics rules. If you currently use foam foodservice ware, it is worth reviewing your options now. See our overview of Canada's single-use plastics rules.
Paper, molded fiber, and bagasse trays
Paper-based and molded fiber trays, including sugarcane (bagasse), have become the go-to replacement for foam. They are sturdy, compostable, often microwave-friendly, and present well for dine-in and takeout alike. Browse sugarcane containers and food trays.
Plastic (PP) trays
Rigid polypropylene trays are durable, often microwave- and freezer-safe, and well suited to prepared meals and delivery where the customer reheats at home. They cost more per unit than paper but stand up to heavier or wetter foods.
How to choose
- Food type and temperature: hot, oily, or saucy foods need sturdier, grease-resistant trays.
- Presentation: natural fiber and kraft looks suit cafés and artisanal brands; clean white suits classic deli and bakery.
- Reheating: if customers microwave at home, choose microwave-safe materials.
- Compliance: avoid foam and other problematic plastics to stay on the right side of the rules.
- Cost at volume: compare price per case, not per piece.
Order food trays wholesale in Atlantic Canada
Fulji Trading supplies food trays and compliant packaging in bulk to restaurants, cafés, and retailers across New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. To see wholesale pricing, request a wholesale account.