Made from various paper-based materials, paper plates are manufactured to be used for casual dinners, picnics, and any events where the plate is to be discarded. There are a wide variety of different plates available that vary in size, the way they are formed, and the materials used to create the texture of the plate. When selecting consider the use and the food to be served. If moist or juicy salads, meats, side dishes, or desserts are to be placed on the plates, make sure the texture is sufficient to absorb the juices and the thickness is sufficient to keep it from either falling apart or bending while being held. Materials that may provide stronger consistencies for heavier or moister foods are styrofoam plates, which can be substituted for some food serving needs. However, there are also heavier weight paper plates that will provide the stronger textures when desired.