5-Compartment Food Trays

A 5-compartment food tray is an effective solution for large-scale dining — it combines all meal components in one item, reduces the volume of dishwashing and simplifies the serving process. In school, hospital and corporate canteens, where hundreds of visitors are served at the same time, compartment trays are a standard tool that ensures fast and organised meal distribution. BHS offers these trays to HoReCa businesses across Europe.

Types and materials of compartment trays

Polypropylene (PP) trays are lightweight, durable and heat-resistant trays that withstand both hot and cold foods. The PP material allows machine washing at high temperatures and is suitable for food contact. Available in various colours, which makes colour coding easier for diet or allergy management. Melamine trays are heavier, more robust and more durable trays for premium canteens. Melamine gives a more pronounced premium feel than plastic, but is heavier. Insulated trays feature a built-in air layer or foam insulation that keeps food at the right temperature for longer — ideal for hospital and care facility dining. Stainless steel compartment trays are the most durable solution with a long service life. BHS helps you choose the right material.

Compartment configuration and functionality

The standard 5-compartment configuration usually includes one large compartment for the main course (approximately 1/4 tray), two medium-sized compartments for sides or salads and two smaller compartments for dessert and bread or a drink. This configuration meets the standard for a full meal. Some trays also offer 4- or 6-compartment versions. Trays with raised compartment edges better prevent food from mixing between compartments — important if visitors have allergen concerns. BHS helps you choose a tray based on your serving process needs.

HACCP and hygiene in canteens

5-compartment trays must be made of HACCP compliant materials that are safe for food contact and do not release harmful substances when heated. PP and melamine trays with CE marking comply with European food contact material regulations. Washing trays in a dishwasher after each use is a mandatory hygiene procedure. Damaged trays with cracks, yellowing or scratches should be discarded — they become a breeding ground for bacteria. Colour coding (different coloured trays for diet categories or allergy groups) is recommended in large-scale canteens. BHS offers HACCP compliant trays.

HoReCa usage scenarios

In a school canteen serving 400 pupils a day, 5-compartment trays allow each pupil to receive a full meal — a portion of soup, main course, side, salad and bread — in one trip through the serving line. In hospital patient dining, insulated compartment trays ensure that the temperature of hot meals remains above +60°C until the end of mealtime, in line with HACCP requirements. In large corporate canteens with a throughput of 500 employees at lunchtime, 5-compartment trays speed up service and reduce waiting times.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a polypropylene tray last? A high-quality PP tray with proper care (machine washing, no aggressive abrasive cleaning agents) lasts 3–7 years. Signs of wear — discolouration, cracks or deformation — indicate the need for replacement. BHS recommends regularly assessing the condition of trays.

Can trays be used in a microwave oven? It depends on the material — PP trays are generally not suitable for microwave ovens. Melamine trays should not be used either. Check the manufacturer’s specifications before using in a microwave oven. BHS helps you choose the right material based on the usage scenario.

Why choose BHS?

BHS – Baltic HoReCa Solutions supplies professional equipment for restaurants, cafés, hotels and canteens: more than 20,000 products from many manufacturers. Our specialists help you choose the right equipment and spare parts for your kitchen or bar.

Delivery

We deliver across the European Union. Delivery time and cost depend on the order volume and destination — contact the BHS team for an exact price and lead time.