Restaurants usually allocate 5-10% of their total budget to packaging. For every small-sized or large food business in the UK, one of the major things is to optimize their operational cost and ensure streamlined operations.
Food Packaging is one of the aspects where restaurants, cafes, and food businesses need to make a careful decision because the right one can affect food preservation, customer experience, transportation efficiency, and compliance with hygiene and sustainability regulations.
From eco-friendly options to sturdy and non-degradable varieties, the food business has a lot many varieties to choose from. Now, this can be decision a bit more complex, but this guide will help you narrow down your list of options.
Different Types of Food Containers
Let’s look at the different types of food containers, their pros and cons, and for which businesses they are suitable:
1. Plastic container
Plastic is the most widely used packaging material, typically made from polymers like polyethene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethene terephthalate (PET), or polystyrene (PS). Plastic takeaway containers are commonly used across the food industry, along with bottles, clamshells, and wrapping films, due to their durability and versatility.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Excellent barrier properties (against moisture, oxygen, and contamination)
- Can be microwave-safe and freezer-compatible (depending on polymer)
- Inexpensive and customizable
Cons
- Non-biodegradable (unless it’s a bioplastic like PLA)
- Environmental impact from single-use plastic
- Recycling is complex; only PET and HDPE are widely recycled in the UK
2. Sugarcane Fibre (Bagasse)
Bagasse is a natural, fibrous byproduct of sugarcane processing. It is molded into containers, trays, and lids using heat and pressure. It is fully compostable and considered a sustainable alternative to plastic or styrofoam.
Pros
- 100% compostable under industrial conditions (EN 13432 compliant)
- Heat-resistant (up to 200°C), making it microwave- and oven-safe
- Breathable, ideal for hot foods (reduces sogginess)
- Minimal environmental impact; renewable source
Cons
- Not waterproof without bio-polymer coating
- Slightly more expensive than plastic
- Limited shelf life for high-moisture foods
3. Glass Bottles and Jars
Glass is an inert, non-porous, and impermeable material made primarily of silica, soda, and lime. It is widely used in packaging sauces, juices, condiments, dairy products, and preserves.
Pros
- Non-reactive; does not affect food flavour or composition
- 100% recyclable indefinitely without loss of quality
- Excellent oxygen and moisture barrier
- Premium appearance and consumer perception
Cons
- Heavy and fragile, increasing transport costs and breakage risk
- Higher carbon footprint during production
- Incompatible with some modern food service needs (e.g., takeaways)
4. Microwavable Containers
Typically made from polypropylene (PP) or crystalized PET (CPET), these microwavable containers can withstand high temperatures without warping. Used for ready meals, meal prep, and food delivery services.
Pros
- Safe for microwave and dishwasher use
- Good sealing properties (often used with heat-sealable films or lids)
- Lightweight and inexpensive
- Withstands freezing and reheating cycles
Cons
- It is still plastic and recycling may be limited depending on local council facilities
- Can become brittle under extreme cold (unless CPET is used)
- Concerns about chemical leaching if low-grade plastics are used
5. Cardboard Container
Made from kraft paper or corrugated fiberboard, often lined with PE or PLA for moisture resistance. Common in pizza boxes, burger clamshells, chip boxes, bakery trays, and sleeves for food trays.
Pros
- Biodegradable and recyclable, especially if unlined
- Can be made from post-consumer recycled content
- Lightweight and stackable
- Printable for branding purposes
Cons
- Requires plastic lining for wet or greasy foods, which may affect recyclability
- Not suitable for high-moisture or liquid-heavy foods unless coated
- Limited durability under mechanical stress
6. Moulded Fibre (Pulp)
Pulp packaging is made from recycled paper, cardboard, or plant fibres (like wheat straw, bamboo, or bagasse). It is shaped into containers using moulds and high pressure.
Pros
- Compostable and biodegradable (usually within 90 days)
- Sustainable use of waste paper and agricultural byproducts
- Can be microwave-safe and moderately heat-resistant
- Ideal for environmentally conscious food brands
Cons
- May absorb liquids unless coated
- Shorter shelf life for wet or greasy foods
- Industrial composting may be required for PLA-coated versions
How to Make the Decision?
Your food packaging option directly impacts your bottom line. It is a part of your branding, and hence, your brand vision should be reflected in your food packaging options.
For instance, if your business promotes sustainability and eco-conscious values, using biodegradable materials like bagasse, cardboard, or moulded pulp reinforces can help reflect your dedication to include sustainability in your operations.
On the other hand, if your focus is on delivering premium or delicate products, then you can opt for glass jars or high-grade microwavable containers for sophisticated packaging.
Cost is also a significant factor. You cannot reduce your profit margins or increase the budget for packaging just because customers are expecting premium food packaging.
So, you can opt for high-grade plastic containers, particularly those made from recyclable polypropylene (PP) or PET, which offer durability, heat resistance, and reusability at a lower cost compared to glass or fully compostable options. These containers can be used for both hot and cold foods and are widely accepted in food delivery services.
Bottom line
Now, you must have an idea of what food packaging option is best for you. However, to protect your profit margins, you should buy in bulk at a pocket-friendly price. If you have made your decision to purchase your food packaging material, then you can look for the food packaging products at Food Packaging Direct.
We have a range of products in different materials, such that you can easily buy and continue with your restaurant operations. Besides, we are a one-stop shop for all the restaurant or food packaging supplies, from hot and food containers to napkins and tableware and wrapping material. So, order your bulk requirement today, and expect them to arrive by at the earliest at your doorstep.