In London’s vibrant food scene—where street food stalls, takeaways, cafés, and delivery kitchens thrive—16oz round containers with lids (456ml) have become a go-to solution for serving a variety of hot and cold dishes. Their size, versatility, and convenience make them a staple item in packaging for both independent food vendors and larger hospitality businesses across the capital.
As the demand for food-to-go and home delivery continues to grow, especially in a city that values speed and sustainability, having reliable, leak-proof, and eco-conscious packaging is more important than ever. The 16oz round container is meeting that demand with functionality and flair.
Why 16oz Round Containers Are a Must-Have in London
The 16oz (456ml) capacity is ideal for serving generous single portions of soups, curries, noodles, rice dishes, pasta, poke bowls, salads, desserts, and even breakfast oats or smoothie bowls. In contrast to smaller 12oz containers, this size offers extra space without being too large, making it perfect for medium to large servings that satisfy hungry Londoners on the move.
These containers are popular with:
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Takeaways and cloud kitchens
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Street food vendors and food trucks
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Salad and poke bowl bars
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Juice bars and dessert cafés
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Event caterers and meal prep services
The addition of a secure-fitting lid ensures the contents remain fresh and spill-free, which is essential for transport via delivery services like Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats.
Material Choices: From Durable Plastic to Eco-Friendly Options
In today’s environmentally conscious climate, many London businesses are making the shift toward sustainable packaging. 16oz round containers come in a variety of materials, each with its own benefits:
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Kraft Paperboard with PLA Lining: A popular compostable option that retains heat well, suitable for hot foods and eco-conscious branding.
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PET and PP Plastics: Clear or opaque plastic containers that are durable, leak-proof, and suitable for refrigeration and microwaving. Many suppliers offer BPA-free versions.
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Bagasse (Sugarcane Fiber): An emerging eco-friendly material that is both compostable and sturdy, with excellent heat resistance.
Suppliers in London often give businesses the option to choose the material that fits their sustainability goals, budget, and product type.
Where to Buy 16oz Round Containers + Lids in London
Whether you’re operating in Soho, Camden, Shoreditch, or Croydon, sourcing reliable packaging in London is easy thanks to the wide variety of packaging wholesalers, eco-packaging suppliers, and business retailers.
Top options include:
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Vegware – Specializes in compostable containers made from plant-based materials.
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Biopac UK – Offers food-grade containers with custom printing and fast delivery options.
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Cater 4 You, Takeaway Packaging, and London Bio Packaging – These businesses supply both eco and standard containers in various sizes.
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Costco Business Centre and Makro – Great for local pickup of bulk containers at competitive prices.
Many suppliers provide next-day delivery within London and offer bulk purchasing discounts, making it cost-effective for both small startups and large catering operations.
Branding and Customization Options
In the competitive London food market, branding matters. Many 16oz container suppliers offer custom printing on both the container and lid, allowing businesses to print their logo, website, or eco-pledge. This is an effective marketing tool, especially as consumers often post pictures of their food on social media.
Custom-printed containers not only enhance brand recognition but also communicate professionalism and attention to detail—qualities that can boost customer loyalty and perception.
Sustainability and Legal Compliance
Londoners are increasingly aware of environmental issues, and many prefer to buy from businesses that share their values. Using recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable containers helps reduce your environmental footprint and aligns with the UK’s growing focus on banning single-use plastics.
Make sure the containers you purchase meet the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) guidelines for food contact and are compliant with EU Regulation 1935/2004, especially if you’re using them for hot fills or microwave use.
Suppliers typically provide certification or documentation that confirms these standards.
Cost and Storage Efficiency
16oz round containers are not just practical—they’re also cost-efficient. With prices averaging £55 to £95 per box of 500–1000 units, they offer excellent value, especially when bought in bulk.
Their stackable design means they take up minimal storage space, both in kitchens and delivery bags. This is a major advantage for businesses operating in tight urban spaces, where every square inch counts.
Final Thoughts
From street food stalls in Camden Market to high-end delis in Kensington, 16oz round containers with lids (456ml) are a vital part of London’s food packaging ecosystem. Their practical size, wide material options, and compatibility with modern sustainability demands make them an essential for any food business.
By choosing the right supplier and materials, and investing in custom branding, London food businesses can not only meet operational needs but also enhance customer satisfaction and support the city’s eco-forward future.
