Dubai There is a huge increase in the demand for disposable tableware during Ramadan as fasting families find it more convenient and hassle-free than traditional crockery and cutlery.
Even homes that typically use fine china to host iftars are beginning to switch to premium disposable tableware as it is deemed just as elegant, with an added edge of easy disposal that eliminates the need to do the dishes or risk possible breakage.
Vishaal S. Shah, CEO of Panache International which distributes the high-end tableware Mozaik by Sabert, besides manufacturing other regular brands like Anaasa and Raha, told XPRESS: “The demand for our premium products goes up by as much as 60 per cent before Ramadan. We sell over nine million pieces of assorted disposable tableware by Mozaik alone during this period as against six million otherwise.”
He said the range of disposable products available is so wide and attractive that they can cater to an entire meal.
“The look of these products is no different from glass, ceramic or stainless steel. They come in over 300 shapes and sizes. We have everything from silver rimmed platters and salad and soup bowls to plates, glasses and dessert cups. The cutlery resembles stainless steel and the range includes even serving spoons, curly spoons and tongs. There’s nothing than you will not get in a disposable form. As for the cost, the entire spread would come up to less than Dh150 for a three-course meal for 10 people. ”
Serving in style
He said families who are hard-pressed for time and help in a fast-paced city like Dubai look for convenience. “They love to socialise and entertain without the bother of having to clean up. At the same time, they want to serve in style. Even restaurants use this high-end disposable ware for serving appetisers and desserts. They are especially popular in pool and beachside parties as they don’t entail breakages which can prove to be expensive if any injuries have to be addressed or the pool has to be cleared.”
Even the regular disposables have many takers.
“I use only disposable tableware when I have a get together. In fact, even if we are by ourselves, we use it as we tend to be tired and it saves us the trouble of doing the dishes,” said Mariam, a housewife with three children who buys different brands of disposable plates, cups and cutlery.
“I use Al Bayader, Al Raha and Falcon. When I have special guests, I go in for Falcon’s premium collection,” she added.
Reem, a working woman, said, “Disposables are easy to get, cheap and convenient. I can’t imagine my life without them.”
Susheel, a grocery salesman in Bur Dubai, said the shop has had to stock up more disposable ware because of the higher demand during Ramadan.
“This is natural and understandable. We see the difference even with our home deliveries.”
