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How to optimize the storage and transport of food products

​​How to improve the efficiency of storage and transport of perishable and frozen food products using plastic equipment

Thursday 18 January 2024

The optimization of the storage and transport of food products is a fundamental aspect for companies in the sector, not only to ensure the quality of products and the efficiency of the production process, but also the safety of consumers. Plastic equipment designed for food contact can make a difference in terms of hygiene, durability and ease of cleaning, and help to speed up and greatly improve storage, handling and transportation processes.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of using plastic equipment in the processes of storing and transporting perishable and frozen food products, as well as their role in food safety and regulatory compliance.

Food storage: why choose plastic equipment?

The storage and transport of food products require special attention to ensure the quality and safety of food, and the use of specific plastic equipment for the food industry offers numerous advantages over other solutions. Certified plastic food equipment is designed to meet the standards of hygiene and food safety, ensuring maximum product protection and contributing to the efficiency and safety of the entire supply chain


The main advantages of plastic equipment for food storage and handling are mainly related to their lightness, versatility and high strength. The lightness of plastics (such as polyethylene and polypropylene) facilitates the movement of equipment and reduces the physical workload for operators, as well as contributing to a decrease in transport costs. This feature, combined with the resistance of the plastic to impact and its durability, ensures that the equipment can withstand frequent use and changing environmental conditions, thereby increasing their service life and reducing the need for frequent replacement. In addition, the plastic equipment is resistant to temperature changes, making it ideal for storing frozen products or transporting perishable food


Another key aspect is the ease of cleaning and maintenance of plastic equipment, which is crucial for maintaining high hygiene standards. The smooth, non-porous surface of the plastic prevents the accumulation of bacteria and facilitates cleaning and disinfection, especially important to prevent cross-contamination during transport of different types of food. In addition, plastic food equipment can be easily customized and adapted according to the characteristics of the products and the needs of each production cycle. For example, they can be designed with specific dimensions to fit perfectly into storage spaces or transport vehicles, thus maximizing space efficiency and improving logistics organization.

Food safety and regulations

Plastic food storage containers play a key role in food safety and regulatory compliance. It is therefore important to ensure that the plastic equipment used is made of high quality materials and certified for contact with food.

The plastics used for food contact applications belong to the so-called MOCA (Materials and Objects in Contact with Food) and must be free of potentially harmful substances that could migrate into food during contact. National and international regulations, such as European Union Regulation (EC) n. 1935/2004, lay down detailed requirements for materials and articles intended to come into contact with food.

These regulations provide that plastics are composed in such a way that they do not release components in such quantities as to endanger the health of consumers, change the composition of food or deteriorate its organoleptic properties. In addition, plastic equipment must pass specific migration tests, which measure the amount of substances that can transfer from objects to food.

The choice of plastic equipment for contact with food must therefore be based not only on their physical and chemical properties, but also on compliance with current regulations and internationally recognized certifications. This will ensure that the plastics used are safe, reliable and suitable for use in the food industry.


All plastic materials used for the realization of IFT food equipment are safe and manufactured in compliance with the national ministerial decree of 21/03/1973 and s.m. and EC food contact regulations (EC Regulation 10/2011, EC Regulation 1935/2004 and 2023/2006). 

IFT solutions for food products storage and transport

IFT offers solutions designed specifically for the storage and handling of food products, ideal for the use in different areas of the food industry: from the dairy sector to the processing of meat and sausages, from the bakery and confectionery sector to the fruit and vegetable sector and the fish sector. All IFT plastic equipment is safe, innovative and functional, each with specific features and benefits that improve process efficiency and safety. Among the different products proposed by the company you can find: 

  • stackable plastic crates, designed to be sturdy and durable. Their lightness makes them easy to handle, while their stacking ability optimizes space. They are ideal for storing a wide range of food products, offering protection and reducing the risk of damage during transport; 
  • plastic grilled boards, which are distinguished by their ability to ensure good ventilation. This feature is essential to prevent mold formation and moisture accumulation, especially important for products such as cheese, fruits and vegetables. They are also easy to clean, thus ensuring maximum hygiene during the process of production or transport
  • stackable grids, designed for the storage of different types of food, including meat, meats, fish and cheese. Resistant and durable, they are easy to handle and palletize, ideal also for use in humid environments or for the transport of products that require high hygienic standards; 
  • plastic grids, particularly suitable for the storage or transport of products in the dairy sector, but also in butchers. Their lightness and resistance make them practical for daily use, facilitating and speeding up different stages of processing, such as salting, drying and seasoning within food industries of any size; 
  • plastic food trays, versatile products for storing and handling of food products. Their lightness makes them easy to transport and they are available in various sizes to adapt to different needs and processes, from drying to dehydration, up to the drying of pasta, fruit or vegetables. 

All the solutions proposed by IFT are ideal for food companies looking to optimize their operations while maintaining high standards of safety and hygiene. For more information about our plastic equipment, contact us