Polycarbonate Plates

Polycarbonate plates for professional meal service

Polycarbonate plates are a lightweight and durable choice for environments where tableware is used frequently and must be easy to handle. They are suitable for restaurants, catering operations, canteens, hospitals, care homes, nurseries, schools and other institutions with organised meal preparation and distribution.

The range includes products made from different plastic materials: copolyester, polycarbonate and polypropylene. Some of the products shown are isothermal covers and bases. Always check the material and permitted methods of use.

Shallow, deep or dessert plate?

Shallow plates are intended for main courses, breakfasts, side dishes and other meals containing less liquid. When choosing a plate, consider its diameter, rim width and usable surface area. Available options include the 23 cm copolyester plate with a coloured rim and the 24.5 cm shallow polypropylene plate.

Deep plates are more suitable for soups, stews, pasta and dishes with sauces. Consider the capacity, depth and amount of space that must remain below the rim. The range includes the 750 ml deep polycarbonate plate and the 300 ml copolyester soup plate.

Smaller and dessert plates are useful for desserts, snacks, bread or smaller portions. For organised meal service, the 180 mm Progress copolyester plate, for example, can complement a larger plate from the same system.

High-rimmed plates and adapted grip

A plate with a higher or more pronounced rim can assist with scooping food onto a spoon or fork by providing support along the edge. This design may be useful for users with reduced mobility in one hand. In addition to the rim height, check the stability of the base, weight, contrast between the plate and food, and whether a non-slip base can be used.

Two- and three-compartment plates

Compartment plates allow the main course, side dish and other ingredients to remain separate. They are useful for controlled portions, dishes with different textures and systematic meal distribution. The compartments do not provide a leakproof separation between liquids. When serving sauces or soups or transporting the plate, consider the height and depth of the dividers.

Differences between copolyester, polycarbonate and polypropylene

Copolyester is a high-quality material that is free from BPA and melamine. It is virtually unbreakable, lightweight, stain-resistant and suitable for frequent professional use. It also provides a high-quality appearance. Its temperature range is from –20 to +85 °C.

Polycarbonate is an exceptionally strong, lightweight and virtually unbreakable material. It is suitable for intensive use and washing in a dishwasher. Its temperature range is up to +85 °C, while certain products are suitable for temperatures up to +140 °C.

Polypropylene is a lightweight, durable and more affordable material that is free from BPA and melamine. It is resistant to impacts, chemicals and stains, making it suitable for everyday use. Its temperature range is from –20 to +90 °C.

How do you choose the correct diameter and capacity?

Choose the plate diameter according to the portion size, tray dimensions, available table space and dishwasher racks. The external diameter is not the same as the usable surface area because a wide rim reduces the space available for food. Capacity is also important for deep plates, although they are not normally filled to the rim because this increases the risk of spills.

• For desserts, bread or smaller portions, consider smaller diameters of approximately 170–180 mm.
• For a standard main meal, compare models measuring approximately 230–255 mm.
• For deep plates, compare the capacity, depth and rim design.

Plate covers are not universal

The category includes low, high, thermal and isothermal covers and bases. A cover can help protect a meal during service and transport and limit direct contact with the surrounding environment. Choose a cover according to the exact product code and plate series. The same diameter does not guarantee a correct fit because the rim profile, height and attachment method may differ.

Coloured rims and contrast during meal service

Coloured plates and models with coloured rims can help distinguish between departments, diets or sets. The contrast between the food and its background may help some users identify their meal more easily, although the effect depends on the colour of the food, lighting conditions and the individual's abilities. Before ordering, check the available colours within the same series.

Washing, stacking and inspecting for damage

Clean the plates before first use and after every meal according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use the permitted temperature, a suitable detergent and a dishwasher rack that prevents the products from moving. Abrasive cleaning tools and harsh chemicals may scratch or cloud the surface.

Do not create excessively high or overloaded stacks, and make sure the plates are completely dry after washing before stacking them. Remove products from use if they have deep scratches, cracks, deformations, damaged rims or surfaces that can no longer be cleaned hygienically.

Choose Table-Line polycarbonate plates

Before purchasing, determine the type of meal, portion size, intended user, tray diameter, transport and washing methods, and whether a cover is required. Then compare the material, shape, depth, rim, colour and compatible accessories. This will help you select a plate system that supports organised, safe and consistent meal service.