Choosing the right takeaway container saves money, keeps portions consistent and stops food spilling in the bag. This guide explains the common plastic takeaway container sizes used by UK takeaways, cafés, caterers and meal prep businesses, and which size suits which dish.
Rectangular Takeaway Containers: 500ml to 1000ml
Rectangular plastic containers with snap-on lids are the standard choice for hot meals. Ours are made from polypropylene (PP), so they are microwave safe and customers can reheat food in the container.
| Size | Typical use |
|---|---|
| 500ml | Rice, sides, sauces, desserts and smaller portions |
| 650ml | A single curry or pasta portion, salads |
| 750ml | Main meals and meal prep portions |
| 1000ml | Large or sharing meals, family portions and batch cooking |
Many takeaways stock two sizes: 500ml for rice and sides, and 650ml or 750ml for mains. If you sell family meals or meal prep in bulk, add 1000ml.
See our plastic takeaway containers with lids, sold in sleeves of 50 or cartons of 250.
Round Deli Pots and Soup Containers: 8oz to 12oz
Round pots with push-on lids are better for soups, stews, dals, salads and desserts. They are also popular for deli counters and food storage.
- 8oz: side portions, desserts, small salads
- 10oz: soups and stews for one
- 12oz: larger soup portions, curries and salads
See our round deli pots and soup containers.
Sauce Pots: 1oz to 4oz
Small pots keep sauces and dips separate so food arrives crisp.
- 1oz: a single portion of ketchup, mayo, chilli or garlic sauce
- 2oz: dips and larger sauce portions
- 4oz: coleslaw, salsa, dressings and sides
Choose hinged sauce pots if you want the lid attached, or sauce pots with separate lids.
Foil Containers
Aluminium foil containers are still a favourite for curries, rice and oven-baked dishes. Read our foil container sizes guide or see our foil containers and lids.
Tips for Choosing Takeaway Packaging
- Match the container to the dish. Saucy dishes travel best in containers with tight-fitting lids.
- Keep your range small. Two or three sizes cover most menus and make ordering simpler.
- Buy by the carton once you know your best sellers. Cartons cost less per container than smaller packs.
- Finish the order with wooden cutlery, paper napkins and paper carrier bags.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are plastic takeaway containers microwave safe?
Our rectangular containers are made from polypropylene (PP) and are microwave safe. Loosen or remove the lid before heating.
What size container is a standard curry portion?
Most takeaways use 650ml or 750ml for a single curry, with 500ml for rice.
Can I collect from your unit?
Yes. You can collect from our unit in Nuneaton, Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm, or order online with free UK delivery on orders over £75 ex VAT.
Browse all our food packaging supplies.