It is no secret that takeout and delivery options exploded in popularity at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. As diners opted to stay home rather than eat out, foodservice operators had to get creative in connecting consumers with their menus. Restaurants that had never offered delivery soon became acquainted with platforms like DoorDash, and at-home diners were quick to jump at the opportunity.
Here we find ourselves five years later, and though takeout and delivery are no longer seen as the only options, consumers have proven with their wallets that they are still willing to pay for convenience.
For more perishable dishes that feature fresh produce, we must beg the question of whether foodservice operators are able to maintain the same level of freshness when preparing meals for takeout or delivery. The answer varies, but on the whole, I would argue yes.
When it comes to takeout, the results are less muddied. Takeout is seen as a preferable option for some, as it poses no additional costs to either the foodservice operator or the consumer. Plus, this avenue puts more accountability on diners—the freshness of their meal depends almost entirely on how quickly they get home and enjoy it.
Even still, there are steps foodservice operators can take to ensure freshness. Perhaps the most comprehensive and effective way to do so is by selecting packaging that is compatible with the dishes they serve. According to MrTakeOutBags*, maintaining freshness comes down to a couple of main factors: ventilation and insulation. Vented lids, for example, can help with preserving crispness, while proper insulation keeps food at its desired temperature.
The same rules apply to delivery. However, a couple of extra steps on the restaurant’s behalf will ensure a more enjoyable experience for the consumer. Most importantly, operators should be extremely mindful of the delivery platforms they choose. Those with a solid reputation may be worth the extra coin—consumers will be more likely to return to your menu if they know it will be consistent.
From a food safety point of view, many foodservice operators go the extra mile by employing tamperproof technology that gives consumers peace of mind when an order arrives at their doorstep.
Whether it’s crispy tempura vegetables or a fresh salad chockfull of produce, there are options out there to make sure your takeout and delivery offerings are just as good as the dine-in experience. All it takes is a little extra tender love and care. 
