Ovenable Trays made from different materials are not all made to withstand the same temperature. The following pages detail the temperature that different materials can withstand in order to prevent your food and containers from being ruined.
CPET Trays
Crystallised polyethylene terephthalate (CPET) is a solid, dark-coloured rigid material, which is used for ready-meal dishes. This material can withstand temperatures from -40 °C up to 220 – 230 °C. It is suitable for use in the freezer followed by oven heating, without cracking or deforming.
Aluminium Foil Trays
The heat conductivity of aluminium enables rapid heating-up of food. When using aluminium for storing and heating-up ready-to-eat and prepared meals it should be noted that, due to its reactive nature, this packaging material can react with strongly acidic foodstuffs (e.g. tomatoes) after prolonged storage at elevated temperatures.
Paperboard and Moulded Fibre
They have a temperature limit of around 200 – 210 °C and are best suited for short periods of time in the oven. Do not use freezer-to-oven use as they can become soft and affect the cooking.
Dual-Ovenable Board
In Dual-Ovenable Board, a thin layer of metallic material is incorporated into the fibres in order to create a Susceptor. The Susceptor then absorbs microwave energy and browns the food during cooking. These types of boards are also suitable for use in conventional ovens and have a typical temperature limit of approximately 200°C.
Stainless Steel and Heavy-Gauge Metal
Stainless Steel and Heavy-Gauge Metal Trays. Used in professional environments, these are the most durable of all ovenable trays. Often used for repeated high-heat cooking, these can withstand temperatures in excess of 250°C. Heavy and expensive, but can be re-used.
Reading Temperature Markings
Temperature markings must be clearly displayed on the base of the tray or on the packaging. These must indicate the maximum temperature for use and will display an ‘oven-safe’ symbol. Again, these must comply with food contact material safety requirements.
The most effective way to avoid problems is to match the tray material to the actual oven temperature and to the type of food being heated in the tray.
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