When it comes to ready meal packaging, finding the perfect balance between convenience, safety, and sustainability can be tricky. That’s where CPET trays step in — the reliable, oven-safe packaging solution designed to handle heat, preserve freshness, and meet Australia’s evolving packaging standards.
Whether you’re a food manufacturer, caterer, or meal delivery business, understanding why CPET trays matter will help you future-proof your operations while delivering a better product experience.
What Are CPET Trays?
CPET (Crystalline Polyethylene Terephthalate) trays are a type of rigid plastic container engineered to withstand extreme temperature ranges — from freezer storage to oven or microwave reheating. They’re made using a semi-crystalline form of PET plastic, offering strength, clarity, and excellent barrier properties.
That’s why they’re widely used for:
- Ready-to-eat meals
- Airline and institutional catering
- Chilled and frozen food packaging
Unlike standard plastic trays, CPET maintains its integrity and shape even under high heat — no warping, melting, or leaching.
Why CPET Trays Are Ideal for Ready Meal Packaging
The ready meal market in Australia is growing rapidly, driven by convenience, longer shelf life, and strict hygiene standards. CPET trays check every box:
- Oven & Microwave Safe
CPET trays can go directly from freezer to oven (up to 220°C) or microwave without affecting food quality. Perfect for ready-to-heat meals where performance and safety are non-negotiable. - Excellent Barrier Properties
They seal effectively against moisture and oxygen, extending shelf life while preserving taste and texture — critical for pre-packed meals and catering businesses. - Durability Under Pressure
CPET trays maintain their form under high stress, stacking, and automated sealing, reducing breakage and waste in transit. - Recyclable and Sustainable
CPET is 100% recyclable under Australia’s Packaging Regulation framework. Businesses can meet sustainability goals while keeping functionality high — an important balance under the upcoming EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) system. - Premium Presentation
CPET trays can be black, clear, or coloured for better shelf appeal. They also pair well with film lidding for tamper-proof packaging.
CPET vs. Other Materials: What’s the Difference?
When comparing CPET with materials like aluminium or bagasse, each has strengths. Aluminium handles oven heat but isn’t microwave-safe. Bagasse is compostable but not ideal for frozen-to-oven transitions.
CPET trays, on the other hand, deliver a unique advantage:
- One tray for freezer, microwave, and oven use
- Smooth seal integrity for MAP (Modified Atmosphere Packaging)
- Consistent quality control in automated food packaging lines
This makes them the most versatile and reliable solution for ready meal packaging operations that demand efficiency and scalability.
Sustainability in Focus: How CPET Aligns with Australia’s Packaging Goals
Australia’s National Packaging Targets 2025 call for all packaging to be recyclable, compostable, or reusable. CPET aligns perfectly with this vision by offering a recyclable yet performance-driven solution.
Carewell Group supports clients through material audits and product development, helping ensure compliance without disrupting production. Our approach focuses on eco-design — minimising virgin plastic use while maximising recyclability.
To explore our full approach, visit our Sustainability page.
Carewell Group: Your Trusted Partner for CPET Trays
At Carewell Group, we specialise in supplying high-quality CPET trays to Australian food producers and meal delivery brands.
We offer a range of CPET trays designed to meet various packaging needs — from portion-controlled meals to multi-compartment options for full meal service.
Our team assists businesses in selecting the right tray for:
- Temperature performance (freezer to oven)
- Food portioning and sealing system compatibility
- Compliance with Australia’s sustainability and labelling standards
If you need help replicating your existing packaging design in CPET or eco materials, our Custom Solutions page outlines how we can create tailored packaging that aligns with your operational goals and brand identity.
Real-World Application: From Meal Prep to Retail
CPET trays are already standard for national food service brands and emerging meal kit companies. Their consistent sealing and heat resistance help improve logistics while maintaining quality through distribution.
For small and medium food businesses, CPET trays eliminate the need for multiple container types — one packaging line can handle multiple heating formats, simplifying operations and inventory management.
The Future of Ready Meal Packaging
As Australia’s packaging reform tightens, brands using sustainable, recyclable materials like CPET will be better prepared to meet compliance targets. Beyond that, it’s about consumer trust — customers recognise and appreciate when a brand prioritises food safety, sustainability, and convenience.
CPET trays strike that perfect balance. They’re built for performance but designed with environmental responsibility in mind.
Ready to Upgrade Your Food Packaging?
Contact Carewell Group today to learn how our CPET trays can optimise your ready meal packaging line.
Location: Carewell Group Pty Ltd, Unit 27/191 McCredie Road, Smithfield, NSW 2164
Phone: +61 0477 123 699
Email: sales@carewellgroup.com.au | info@carewellgroup.com.au | logistics@carewellgroup.com.au
