Sabert White 26 oz. Three-Compartment Medium Rectangle Tray (18-4-4 oz.)
About Plastic - CPET
CPET (Crystallized Polyethylene Terephthalate) is the go-to material for foodservice operations that need dual-oven containers—packaging that goes directly from freezer to oven to table. Restaurants, caterers, meal prep services, and grocery delis rely on CPET for hot entrées, cook-and-sell programs, and reheatable takeout meals that demand both cooking performance and presentation quality.
What it handles
CPET withstands temperatures from -40°F in the freezer to 400°F in conventional ovens, making it safe for microwave reheating, oven cooking, and frozen storage. It resists grease and moisture without softening or warping, and holds its structure under the weight of sauced entrées, casseroles, and multi-compartment meals. The rigid walls prevent collapse during transport and stacking.
How it compares
CPET costs more than standard black polypropylene (PP) containers but tolerates true oven heat, where PP will melt or deform above 220°F. For operations that only need microwave reheating, PP offers a lower-cost alternative. CPET is the necessary choice when customers will finish cooking in a conventional oven or when you need freezer-to-oven capability in a single container.
Choosing Plastic - CPET
Match container capacity and configuration to your menu and heating method.
- Portion and compartments: Single-compartment containers work for casseroles and pasta dishes; two- and three-compartment trays suit plated entrées with sides that need separation during cooking.
- Oven vs. microwave: If your customers will only reheat in a microwave, standard PP costs less; choose CPET when conventional oven heating is required or preferred.
- Freezer programs: CPET's freezer-to-oven capability makes it ideal for meal prep businesses, grocery deli heat-and-eat programs, and catering operations that batch-cook and store in advance.
- Lid compatibility: Verify that lids are rated for the same temperature range if you plan to cook with the lid on; most CPET lids are board or film and are removed before heating.
- Capacity sizing: Choose 16-27 oz sizes for individual entrées, 32-40 oz for larger portions or family-style servings, and 45 oz for bulk casseroles or multi-serving dishes.
Frequently asked questions
- Is Plastic - CPET microwave safe?
- Yes, CPET is microwave safe and will not warp or release harmful chemicals during microwave reheating. It is designed for repeated microwave use as well as conventional oven heating.
- Is Plastic - CPET compostable?
- No, CPET is not compostable. It is recyclable where PET recycling programs accept rigid containers, but it will not break down in compost facilities.
- Can CPET go directly from freezer to oven?
- Yes, CPET is engineered for freezer-to-oven use and handles the thermal shock of moving from -40°F frozen storage directly into a 400°F oven without cracking or warping. This makes it ideal for cook-chill and meal prep programs.
- What is CPET made from?
- CPET is made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic that has been crystallized through a heating process to increase its heat tolerance and structural rigidity. This crystallization is what allows it to withstand oven temperatures unlike standard PET.
- What temperature can CPET withstand in the oven?
- CPET is oven safe up to 400°F, making it suitable for baking, roasting, and reheating in conventional and toaster ovens. It should not be used under broilers or exposed to direct flame.
- Is CPET recyclable?
- Yes, CPET is recyclable as a #1 PET plastic in many municipal recycling programs that accept rigid containers. Check with your local recycling provider, as acceptance varies by region.