BOLS RECYCLABLES

Recyclable, Reusable, Compostable: Three Terms Not to Confuse

These three terms are often used as synonyms, even though they refer to different end-of-life processes, and the choice made by a professional buyer depends on the specific situation.

A recyclable container is made from a material that recycling systems are able to collect and process into new material. This is what characterises the bowls featured on this page.

A reusable container can go through commercial washing and be used several times before eventually being recycled. Recyclable and reusable are therefore not mutually exclusive: some products in this selection combine both characteristics, and these models are grouped on the reusable bowls page.

A compostable container breaks down under composting conditions defined by a standard. This is a separate end-of-life process from recycling and requires organic-waste collection rather than a recycling bin.

This distinction has direct consequences. Since January 2023, establishments serving more than twenty covers simultaneously have been required to use reusable tableware for on-site consumption. Single-use recyclable containers remain relevant when the meal leaves the establishment. For operations entirely dedicated to table service, the reusable range covers all requirements.

Which Recyclable Materials for Which Use?

Transparent Plastics

Polystyrene and PET provide the transparency sought for refrigerated displays and buffets. They allow the preparation to be seen without opening the container, which is useful for mixed salads or layered desserts. rPET, made from recycled material, is used for some of the lids.

Polypropylene

PP provides a matt, coloured appearance, good mechanical strength and microwave suitability. It is used for bowls intended for repeated use, including models whose formulation incorporates a mineral filler to reduce the amount of plastic.

Plant Fibres and Coated Cardboard

Bagasse, a by-product of sugar cane, is suitable for oven and microwave use and provides a matt white finish that contrasts well with colourful preparations. Kraft cardboard coated with a food-grade film remains leak-resistant, including at the corners, and supports moderate reheating. Other formats in this family can be found on the cardboard bowls page.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel can be recycled without loss of quality, withstands both oven use and freezing, and can be washed repeatedly. It is suited to carefully presented dishes and table service, with more details available on the stainless steel bowls page.

Technical Criteria to Check Before Ordering

Temperature. Each material has its own temperature limits, which are stated on the product page. A bowl that is microwave-safe is not necessarily suitable for oven use, and a transparent lid almost never follows its bowl into the reheating process.

Leak resistance and lid. Saucy dishes and soups require a snap-on or screw-top lid tested with the corresponding bowl. At Comatec, each capacity is linked to its specific lid reference, so reordering does not require measuring the diameter again.

Stacking and storage. In storage or on display, stacked height and carton footprint are just as important as the unit price. Flat lids allow presentations to be stacked without crushing the preparation.

Packaging quantity. The number of pieces per carton varies considerably depending on the material. Stainless steel products are ordered in smaller quantities, while standard service ranges are supplied by the several hundred. For the same service volume, this affects how often you need to restock and how much storage space you need.

The Recyclable Bowl According to Your Business

Caterers and receptions. Small formats are suitable for appetisers, sauces and individual desserts. Combining different materials and heights on the same table avoids a uniform buffet appearance. Plates and tableware kits follow the same design lines to create a consistent service.

Takeaway and delivery. The container must withstand transport while keeping the contents visible and easy for the customer to identify. Closed bowls, secure lids and moisture-resistant materials: dedicated solutions are grouped on the takeaway page.

Institutional catering and table service. Here, the container returns to the commercial dishwasher. Washable materials take priority over single-use products.

Events. Volumes are concentrated on a single day and return logistics are often unavailable.

Comatec, Recyclable Bowl Supplier for Professionals

Since 1994, Comatec has been designing and distributing food packaging from Carcassonne. In 2026, the company received the EcoVadis Platinum Medal, placing it among the highest-rated companies in the programme. PlanetScore© is applied throughout the catalogue, with a rating from A to E displayed on each product page, while the country of origin, France or Europe, is indicated for each product.

You can request free samples to check capacity and performance before committing to a larger volume, explore customisation options for eligible products, and benefit from free delivery on orders over €350 excl. VAT. The complete range can be explored from the containers page.