Frequently Asked Questions

Ecopax manufactures a comprehensive range of disposable food containers designed for the foodservice industry. Our product catalog includes six main categories:

• Hinged Containers: Single-piece clamshell containers with an attached lid, available in 1-compartment, 2-compartment, and 3-compartment configurations. Available in MFPP (Pebble collection) PVS, PPT and foam options.

• Cups & Lids: Including our PLA paper to-go cups for hot and cold beverages - these are BPI certified compostable (at select facilities). PET cups are also available.

• 2-Piece Containers: Separate base and lid systems, featuring our Pebble collection with MFPP black trays and clear PP lids for a premium presentation.

• Bowls & Lids: From 4 oz. portions to larger serving sizes, ideal for soups, salads, rice bowls, and more.

• Plates & School Trays: Institutional-grade plates and compartment trays for schools, hospitals, and high-volume dining operations.

• Bags & Liners: Parchment paper for commercial kitchen use. Wax paper deli liners and related products for wrapping and food prep.

A hinged container, also commonly called a clamshell container, is a single-piece food container with a base and lid connected by a hinge. The lid folds over and snaps shut to secure food inside. Hinged containers are the most popular takeout container style for restaurants, delis, and catering operations because they are easy to fill, close, and stack. Ecopax offers hinged containers in a wide range of sizes, from compact 5-inch sandwich boxes to large 13-inch hoagie containers, in both foam and MFPP materials. Our PVS and PPT containers with clear lids offer premium food presentation.

Yes, all ecopax MFPP (Mineral-Filled Polypropylene) containers are microwave safe for reheating. This includes our Pebble collection hinged containers and 2-piece containers. We recommend limiting microwave use to under 2 minutes per session for reheating purposes to maintain container integrity. Our foam (PS) containers are not microwave safe. If microwave safety is important for your operation, look for our PP-prefix SKUs (such as PP225, PP206, PP883) which indicate MFPP material.

Not all plastic takeout containers are safe for the microwave. It depends entirely on the material. ecopax MFPP containers are specifically designed and tested for microwave reheating. Polypropylene (PP, resin code #5) is generally considered microwave safe, while polystyrene (PS) foam is not. Always check the container or packaging for a microwave-safe symbol before reheating. Ecopax MFPP products carry clear microwave-safe labeling so your customers can reheat with confidence.

Ecopax offers takeout containers across a wide range of sizes to fit virtually any menu item. Our most popular sizes include:

• Small (5”-6”): Perfect for sliders, sides, dipping sauces, and single desserts.

• Medium (7”-8”): Ideal for sandwiches, burgers, salads, and single entrees.

• Large (9”-10”): Designed for full dinner portions, combo meals, and larger entrees with sides.

• Hoagie/Sub (13”): Elongated containers for hoagies, subs, burritos, and footlong sandwiches.

• Compartment options: Most sizes are available in 1-compartment, 2-compartment, and 3-compartment configurations to keep menu items separated.

Ecopax offers both foam (expanded polystyrene/EPS) and MFPP (Mineral-Filled Polypropylene) containers. Here is how they compare:

• Material: Foam is made from polystyrene (PS). MFPP blends polypropylene with up to 40% Earth minerals.

• Microwave safe: MFPP is microwave safe for reheating. Foam is not.*

• Sustainability: MFPP reduces plastic content by up to 40%. Foam is being banned in many municipalities.

• Durability: Both are sturdy and grease resistant. MFPP has a slightly higher rigidity and premium feel.

• Recyclability: MFPP (PP #5) is recyclable in many programs. Foam recycling is far more limited.

• Heat Insulation

Yes. Both our foam and MFPP containers are designed to handle hot foods. Our MFPP containers in particular are engineered for hot food delivery and takeout, offering excellent heat resistance and insulation. They will not warp, leak, or lose structural integrity when filled with hot entrees, soups, or fried foods. The hinged lid provides a secure seal that keeps food warm during transport while preventing spills.

The best restaurant takeout containers balance performance, cost, and sustainability. For most operations, we recommend ecopax MFPP hinged containers as a versatile starting point. They are microwave safe (a significant plus for customers reheating at home), grease resistant, stackable for efficient storage, and available in every size from small sides to large combo meals. If you are in a jurisdiction with a foam ban, MFPP is a seamless transition. For high-volume operations prioritizing cost, our foam line remains a reliable and affordable option where regulations allow. If you have concerns about EPR laws, please contact us for solutions.

Most of our products are customizable, please contact us for more details.

Ecopax SKUs are designed to make reordering simple. Here is a quick guide:

• PP prefix (e.g., PP225, PP883): Indicates MFPP material, part of the Pebble collection. Microwave safe.

• Numeric-only SKUs (e.g., 225, 205, 1010): Indicate foam (PS) material.

• BK suffix (e.g., PP201-BK): Indicates black color.

• PCO prefix (e.g., PCO225-BK-320): Indicates a combo pack with tray and lid included together.

Yes. Ecopax is a manufacturer that sells through foodservice distributors across North America. Our products are available in truckload quantities. We work with established distribution partners to serve restaurants, schools, hospitals, catering companies, and other foodservice operations. Contact us at (484) 546-0700 or through our website to connect with a distributor in your area or to discuss volume pricing.

Yes, we encourage potential customers to request samples before committing to a full order. We want you to see and feel the quality of our containers firsthand. Contact our sales team at (484) 546-0700 or reach out through the Contact page on our website to request samples of any product in our catalog. Our team can also help you identify the best container options for your specific menu items and volume requirements.

Ecopax serves a broad range of customers across the United States, including:

• Restaurants and fast-casual dining operations

• School nutrition and K-12 dining programs

• Catering companies and event services

• Hospitals and healthcare dining facilities

• Ghost kitchens and delivery-only restaurants

• Convenience stores and delis

• Coffee roasters and cafés

• Offices, museums, and other outlets

• Foodservice distributors looking for a reliable packaging supplier

We are proud to count Darden Restaurants, one of the largest full-service restaurant companies in the world, among our customers. Ecopax was named Darden’s Supplier of the Year, a recognition of our product quality and commitment to service.

Ecopax is headquartered and manufactures in the Lehigh Valley region of Pennsylvania, with our main facility located at 1355 Easton Road, Bethlehem, PA 18015. We also operate a manufacturing facility in Easton, PA. Being centrally located on the East Coast gives us efficient distribution access to markets across the United States.