What Is the Little Table For in a Pizza Box?
The little plastic table inside a pizza box, often called a “pizza saver,” is designed to prevent the box lid from collapsing onto the pizza, protecting the toppings from sticking and preserving the pizza’s overall presentation during delivery.
The Pizza Saver: A Hero of Delivery
The seemingly insignificant plastic piece nestled within a pizza box serves a crucial purpose, one that most pizza lovers appreciate without necessarily understanding the mechanics. This unassuming device, often referred to as a pizza saver, pizza table, or box tent, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of your pizza from oven to doorstep. Let’s delve into the history, function, and significance of this culinary guardian.
The Genesis of the Pizza Saver
While seemingly ubiquitous now, the pizza saver is a relatively recent invention. Carmela Vitale of New York patented the device in 1985, receiving US Patent 4,498,586. Her invention, described as a “package saver,” aimed to prevent damage to the contents of boxes by supporting the lid. Although Vitale isn’t directly tied to the pizza industry, her invention found its niche there, quickly becoming a standard feature in pizza deliveries across the globe. The problem Vitale’s design solved was simple: the flimsy cardboard of a pizza box could sag during transit, especially when exposed to the heat and steam emanating from the pizza itself.
The Mechanics of Protection
The pizza saver’s design is brilliantly simple: a small, three-legged table made of plastic. Its purpose is to create a buffer zone between the top of the pizza and the lid of the box. This prevents the lid from sagging and sticking to the melted cheese and toppings below. Without this support, the box could easily collapse, leading to a messy and unappetizing delivery. The legs provide the needed structural integrity, preventing the box lid from sagging.
Benefits Beyond Prevention
While the primary function is preventing box collapse, the pizza saver provides secondary benefits:
- Preservation of Presentation: A visually appealing pizza enhances the dining experience. The saver ensures the pizza arrives looking as intended.
- Reduced Food Waste: By preventing toppings from sticking to the box, the pizza saver minimizes food waste and ensures you get the full pizza you paid for.
- Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: A pizza arriving in pristine condition reflects well on the pizzeria and contributes to customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Improves Ventilation: Though not its primary purpose, the slight elevation the saver provides can allow for minimal ventilation, reducing condensation build-up within the box during longer deliveries.
Material Matters: The Choice of Plastic
While other materials like cardboard or even biodegradable alternatives have been considered, plastic remains the most common material for pizza savers due to:
- Cost-effectiveness: Plastic is relatively inexpensive to manufacture.
- Durability: Plastic can withstand the heat and moisture within the pizza box.
- Food Safety: Certain types of plastic are deemed food-safe and won’t contaminate the pizza.
- Reusable (Potentially): Although often discarded, pizza savers can technically be washed and reused, making them a longer-lasting material compared to cardboard.
Are Pizza Savers Essential?
The necessity of the pizza saver is a point of debate. Some argue that with improvements in box design and transportation methods, the saver is becoming obsolete. Others maintain that it’s a necessary safeguard, especially for pizzas with generous toppings or longer delivery distances. Ultimately, its presence provides an extra layer of protection, ensuring a better experience for the consumer.
Common Misconceptions
One common misconception is that the pizza saver is designed to be eaten. It is made of plastic and is not edible. Another misconception is that it is only useful for preventing the box from touching the pizza. While this is its primary function, it also contributes to the overall presentation and reduces food waste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the pizza saver made of?
Pizza savers are typically made of polystyrene plastic, sometimes labeled as #6 plastic for recycling purposes. While other materials have been explored, plastic remains the most common due to its cost-effectiveness, durability, and food safety.
Is the pizza saver edible?
Absolutely not! Pizza savers are made of plastic and are not intended for consumption. Discard it immediately upon opening the pizza box.
Can I recycle the pizza saver?
Recycling the pizza saver depends on your local recycling guidelines. Polystyrene plastic (#6) can be difficult to recycle in some areas, so check with your local waste management authority for specific instructions.
Are there alternatives to the plastic pizza saver?
Yes, there are biodegradable or compostable alternatives made from materials like cardboard or plant-based plastics. However, these are not as widely used as traditional plastic savers due to cost or durability concerns.
How does the pizza saver affect the temperature of the pizza?
The pizza saver has minimal impact on the overall temperature of the pizza. Its primary function is mechanical, not thermal.
Why are there only three legs on the pizza saver?
Three legs provide stability and even weight distribution while requiring less material than four legs. This design balances functionality with cost-effectiveness.
Does the size of the pizza affect the size of the pizza saver?
Yes, larger pizzas may require taller or more robust pizza savers to adequately support the box lid. However, a standard size covers the vast majority of pizza sizes.
Is the pizza saver patented?
Yes, the original design for the pizza saver was patented by Carmela Vitale in 1985 (US Patent 4,498,586).
Are pizza savers only used for pizzas?
While primarily associated with pizza, similar devices can be used in other packaged food items to prevent damage from the lid. This highlights the versatility of the original “package saver” design.
Can I reuse the pizza saver?
Technically, yes. You can wash and reuse a pizza saver. However, for hygiene reasons, most people prefer to discard them after a single use.
Are there any safety concerns associated with the pizza saver?
The main safety concern is the potential for choking, especially with young children. Keep pizza savers out of reach of children and pets.
What happens if a pizza box doesn’t have a pizza saver?
Without a pizza saver, the box lid is more likely to sag and stick to the toppings, potentially resulting in a messy pizza and a less enjoyable experience. The probability increases with steamier pizzas and longer delivery times.