A polyester film for disposable baking trays that can withstand 450 degree temperatures and still maintain an attractive appearance at retail is helping Laminating Technologies LLC win converts to its Bake ‘n Ship packaging.

The film is laminated onto heat-resistant foil and a cardboard substrate. Trays come in a variety of finishes, including gold, silver and black.

Earlier versions of disposable baking trays “were basically just cardboard with a sprayed on film,” says Kathy Gallant, purchasing manager for Alden Merrell Co., a Newburyport, Mass., baker of cheesecakes and specialty desserts. “The difference with these new bake-and-ship containers is the lamination process and the film that they use.” Gallant estimates labor costs are reduced 25 percent by eliminating depanning, but packaging aesthetics for foodservice clients may be the most important benefit. “The tray gives you a much better presentation because it is stronger and maintains its shape throughout the entire baking/freezing/shipping process,” she says.