About this article
Demand for alternatives to plastic to-go trays is growing. Cellulose is emerging as a renewable, versatile option. But what is it, how are trays made, and why are businesses choosing them?
What is cellulose?
Cellulose is the world’s most abundant natural polymer, forming the cell walls of plants. Strong, flexible, and lightweight, cellulose has long been used in paper and textiles. Today, it’s at the centre of fibre-based food packaging innovation. Plant-based, renewable and compostable, it’s increasingly recognised as a more sustainable material choice. Looking for a quick overview?
How are our cellulose trays made?
After extracting cellulose fibres, production involves mixing them with water, moulding into shape, and hot-pressing for strength. Water and production scraps are recycled to minimise waste. Finally, a thin compostable liner adds sealing and water/grease protection.
With over 90% of the material being renewable, the trays offer a practical packaging solution that aligns with upcoming EU regulations. By significantly reducing plastic content in to-go trays, they can help businesses lower their exposure to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fees, which are rising under the EU’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
“With rising plastic packaging fees in Germany, our cellulose trays help businesses cut those costs” – Roozbeh Motekallemi, Purchasing Director at Bunzl Grosshandel
How is cellulose different from other fibre-based materials like paper or bagasse?
Cardboard, bagasse, and cellulose are all fibre-based materials, but each serves different purposes in food packaging.
- Cardboard is best for dry goods and structural packaging, suitable for items like trays, salad bowls and soup containers.
- Bagasse, a byproduct of sugarcane, is highly renewable and resistant to oil and water, making it ideal for meals eaten soon after serving. However, it’s less suited for sealing or long-term storage. Check out our bagasse bowls, plates and clamshells.
- Cellulose from wood fibres offers excellent sealing capability, heat resistance, and strong barrier properties when laminated. It stays cool to the touch after heating and is ideal for applications where food needs to remain in the packaging for extended periods (up to 48 hours) while maintaining freshness and food safety.
Ultimately, the best material depends on your packaging needs. Check out our product range or get in touch with us – we’re happy to help you find the best fit for your operation.
Why choose Verive’s cellulose trays?
Across Europe, businesses are switching from PP, CPET, and aluminium to cellulose packaging. Verive’s cellulose trays deliver professional performance while supporting sustainability goals, offering a practical alternative to fossil-based materials.
Key features:
- Heat versatile: Oven-safe up to 120°C, microwave-safe up to 1,000 watts, and compatible with regeneration cabinets (90–110°C).
- Safe to handle: Stays cool to the touch after heating, unlike PP-based trays that retain heat and can cause burns.
- Cold-resistant: Freezable and chill-safe without losing its shape or strength.
- Grease, water, and sauce proof: Keeps food fresh and prevents leaks.
- Versatile formats: Available in 1, 2, and 3 compartment trays, with five different sizes.
- Sealable: Designed for secure, leak-proof packaging.
- Made from renewable resources: Over 90% renewable cellulose fibres.
- No PFAS added: Made without intentionally adding PFAS chemicals.
Pair with our Nature Guard cellulose sealing film for a fully compostable solution that keeps meals fresh, reduces fossil-based plastic use, and aligns with EU regulations.
Want to know where to buy Verive products near you? Explore our European partners and find your local supplier.
From kitchens to counters: How businesses use Verive’s cellulose trays
Verive’s cellulose trays are designed for the fast-paced world of fresh meal production, ideal for meals prepared, sealed, transported, and enjoyed on the same day or within 48 hours.
At Magnushof in The Netherlands, switching to our trays reduced plastic use by 98% while serving 950 people daily.
What is the best end-of-life scenario for our cellulose trays?
The best end-of-life option for Verive’s cellulose trays is industrial composting, where available.
In The Netherlands and France, the trays can also be recycled with paper if they are dry, clean, and mostly free of food residues. Minimal grease or sauce is acceptable, but larger food leftovers should be removed and placed in general waste. In Germany, the trays should currently be disposed of in general waste due to its bio liner and local recycling limitations. Always check local guidelines for specific disposal requirements.
See how cellulose trays can work for your business
Cellulose food trays are a practical, future-proof choice for to-go and prepacked meals. They combine versatility, sealability, and reheating performance with the added advantage of being renewable and compostable.
At Verive, we help companies find packaging that not only meets today’s demands but also positions them for the future. Want to know more about our cellulose trays, or see how they could work in your business? Get in touch with us or download our free cellulose factsheet to explore the options.
Nerea Tarrero
"We’re here to make packaging simple. With transparent, up‑to‑date insights, we help you build a packaging strategy you can trust."
