Food flavor has become even more important in recent years. A growing number of people wish to experience new and bold flavors. That’s why restaurants that specialize in cuisines from around the world are increasingly popular. However, one of the secrets of tasty food is in condiments. These food products can be added after the meal is ready or during cooking. There are hundreds of different types of condiments as every cuisine has its own condiments list. These products come in a variety of condiment containers and packaging types. In this article, we’ll share some details about common containers in the condiment market. Make sure to also check our blog posts on restaurant spices and wholesale condiments.
Key takeaway: Glass containers (jars and bottles) and squeeze bottles are the most common containers for condiments. They are used by both businesses and households. Each condiment category has its distinct storage requirements. Jars with spices and herbs should be stored away from moisture while bottles with ketchup and mustard should be kept in a fridge.
Different Types of Condiment Containers for Storing
The food and beverage industry and especially manufacturers sell condiments in various different containers. The packaging is important not only to store the product but also to make it more convenient. Here are some of the popular condiment containers.
- Squeeze bottles. They make it easier to put semi-fluid condiments like ketchup or mustard on food. These condiment containers are popular for various sauces. They come in a variety of sizes too. One of the big pros of squeeze bottles is that they can be refilled. That helps businesses in the fast food industry cut costs as they can purchase bulk condiments at wholesale prices.
- Glass jars and bottles. They are a universal way to store various types of food, including condiments. Jars can be a great way to store thick products like salsa, relish, and pickles. The variety in sizes makes them suitable for both household and restaurant pantries. Glass bottles can be used for condiments like hot sauces, various types of seed or vegetable oils, and artisanal dressings (like honey mustard dressing or vinaigrette). The transparent packaging shows the product and can help with sales. Specialty sauces and gourmet condiments are commonly stored in glass bottles as well. Both jars and bottles can be reused.
- Single-serve packets and portions. They are a convenient option for takeaway and deliveries in the fast food restaurant industry. Although there’s a variety of sauces in single-serve packets, these condiment containers are commonly associated with ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, and soy sauce.
- Plastic tubs with lids. These containers are a great option for various dips like hummus and guacamole. Another application of these containers is for bulky condiments like sugar, olives, seed mix, or different types of herbs and spices.
- Pumps and dispensers. You will often see those used by hospitality groups and fast food restaurants. They are suitable for self-service establishments. A major benefit of these condiment containers is that they can be refilled. Thus, companies can partner with condiment businesses that sell their products in bulk or with suppliers.
- Pouches. Similar to single-serve packets, they are convenient and portable. The main difference between the two is that this condiment container is suitable for more than one serving. Like single portions, pouches are commonly used for ketchup, soy sauce, mustard, and mayonnaise.
- Aerosol cans. This is probably the kids’ favorite condiment container as it’s often used for products like whipped cream or cheese spray. Some manufacturers also offer other products like no-stick cooking spray in aerosol cans.
Condiment Serving Containers
There are various tableware options and condiment containers for restaurants. They are used to serve sauces or to store certain types of condiments such as marinade and salad dressing. Here are some examples.
- Ramekins. Although they are commonly associated with desserts such as soufflé or ice cream, ramekins can also be used to serve condiments and garnishes alongside an entrée.
- Squeeze bottles. Fast food and casual dining restaurants often use them to serve condiments. They can be put on condiment caddies on the table or at a condiment station.
- Sauce boats. They can be used to serve gravy or dripping sauces. They are often made of stainless steel or porcelain. Some food service businesses might also use them to store condiments in a fridge.
- Condiment caddies. Oil and vinegar sets or condiment holders play an important role in restaurants. They are an easy and effective way to organize condiments on tables. Most food service establishments order branded caddies and holders from distributors of wholesale restaurant supplies.
- Shakers, grinders, and mills. These condiment containers are commonly used to store salt, pepper, spices, and other representatives of the condiments market.
- Condiment bars. These containers usually have three or more compartments that are used to store condiments. They can be used behind the bar to store products like olives, cocktail cherries, lemon slices, and other products used by bartenders when mixing drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions about Condiment Containers
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How to Organize Condiments?
Condiments should be organized based on how often they are used and what their storage conditions are. For example, sauces like BBQ sauce, mayonnaise, and ketchup should be kept in a refrigerator. However, if their bottles or jars are unopened, they could be kept in a cabinet at room temperature. Spices, on the other hand, can be placed in condiment containers in the top drawer. Some herbs or spices that are rarely used can be placed in the back while the most frequently used should be at the front.
Can Condiments Go Bad?
Just like any other food, condiments are perishable. Their shelf life can be extended with different food preservation methods. For example, organic herbs and spices can be stored in airtight condiment containers in order to keep them in good condition longer. Although the main role of condiment containers is to be convenient, they also play a part in extending the shelf life of condiments. That’s why it’s crucial to pick the right containers.
Keep in mind that storage conditions differ by the products. For example, ketchup and mustard should be kept in a refrigerator after the bottle is opened. However, various types of vegetable oils can be stored in kitchen cabinets or the pantry. Hot sauce, spices, and other condiments can be significantly degraded by direct sunlight.
What’s the Difference between Sauces and Condiments?
The simplest answer is that sauces are one type of condiment. But there are other categories too. What are condiments exactly? They are food products that are added during the cooking process or after it in order to add additional flavor to the meal. That being said, products like no-seed oils and spice mixes are also big condiment categories. When comparing sauces vs condiments and dips, most people choose the former to add taste to food. Sauces such as ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, and mayonnaise are among the most common condiments.