Plastic Food Trays Key Terms

Understanding terminology used to describe various types of plastic trays

Plastic trays are widely used in the food industry. They can be found in cafeterias, restaurants, delis, bakeries, supermarkets, hotels and catering establishments. As you shop for plastic food trays, it is unlikely that you'll find many terms that confuse you. However, you'll find plastic trays are designed for specific purposes, and understanding the terms used to describe those purposes can help you find the right trays for your needs.

 

Display pans

Display pans are plastic trays used for displaying food items, usually within a glass fronted case. They are frequently seen in bakeries, delis and supermarkets.
Try: Molded Fiber Glass Tray Company describes the common uses of display pans.

Cafeteria trays

Cafeteria trays are plastic reusable trays used as large, compartmentalized plates. Sometimes non-compartmentalized plastic trays, designed to hold plastic or paper dishes, are also called cafeteria trays.
Try: Time.com discusses the hot topic of food waste related to the use of cafeteria trays.

Nonskid tray

Nonskid trays are used for serving food and beverages. They are made of plastic and have a nonskid surface preventing spills and accidents.
Try: The WEBstraunt Store describes the make up of a typical nonskid tray.

Cork trays

Cork trays are plastic, rimmed trays lined with cork. The cork helps prevent slipping and absorbs small amounts of fluid from food or drinks.
Try: Carlisle describes the general make up of a typical cork tray.

Serving trays

Serving trays are plastic, rimmed trays used by servers to carry drinks and plates of food. They are also used to serve plates of food on food carts, such as in a hotel setting.
Try: Architectural Plastics describes and shows common serving trays.

Proofing tray

To proof while baking is to allow bread or other items with yeast to sit and rise. Proofing trays are plastic trays where bakers place breads or other goods to allow them to rise.
Try: Losurdo Foods explains how to properly proof their pizza dough on proofing trays.

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