Differences Between the Plastics Used for Food Storage

Jul 26th 2012

Polycarbonate – Clear or Black

Cambro PolycarbonateExample: 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

Cambro 4FSPP

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

Cambro white

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

Cambro Polysulfone

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

Carlisle Plastic

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.