Aluminium packaging for baking, cooked meals and catering

Why aluminium

Aluminium trays handle high oven temperatures, conduct heat quickly and are also suitable for freezing. That is why caterers, ready-meal kitchens and bakers making pies and baklava love them.

Food can be prepared, baked, delivered and reheated in the same tray - no transferring and less washing up.

• Oven and freezer - yes
• Microwave - no, unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it
• The paper lid does not go in the oven - add it after baking

How to choose the size

Choose the size by portion, not by how much the tray holds when overfilled. Leave a little space below the rim so the lid sits flat and sauce does not leak.

ALU 1, ALU 3, ALU 4 and ALU 6 are different capacities - the exact volume and dimensions are listed on each product.

• Small portion or side: up to about 450 ml
• One main meal: about 700 ml
• Larger portion or for two: about 900 ml and more
• Whole tray for a table or catering: large rectangular or oval trays

Lids and closing

Trays with paper lids are closed by folding the aluminium rim over the lid - fast and with no extra equipment. You can write the contents on the lid or add a label.

For sauces and soups, check that the rim is folded tightly all the way around before transport.

Oval catering platters

Oval aluminium platters are for meze, roast meat, pies and cakes for celebrations. They look neat on the table and guests don't need to return them.

Because of their large surface, carry them on a firm base - thin aluminium can bend when full.

Aluminium foil

Foil is for covering trays, wrapping meat and fish for baking and keeping food warm during delivery. 30 and 45 cm rolls are the most common in kitchens; wider rolls are for trays and large volumes.

Stronger foil tears less when wrapping bones and sharp edges.

Common mistakes

Most problems come from overfilling or handling.

• Overfilled tray - the lid won't sit and sauce leaks
• Full tray held by one end - it bends
• Very acidic or salty food kept long in aluminium - transfer it for long storage
• Paper lid in the oven - it can burn