In an era where convenience, sustainability, and presentation are equally vital, packaging is no longer a background detail—it’s a core part of the customer experience. Among the many packaging solutions available in the UK, 8oz Round Containers with Lids (228ml) have become a favourite for cafés, delis, caterers, and takeaway services. Their compact size and versatility make them perfect for a range of food and beverage offerings while meeting modern needs for eco-friendliness and visual appeal.
If you’re a food business looking for the ideal packaging solution for side dishes, snacks, sauces, or desserts, read on to discover why 8oz containers may be your best bet.
What is an 8oz (228ml) Round Container?
The 8oz round container, also known as a 228ml container, is a small, circular food-grade tub with an optional matching lid. Designed to hold both hot and cold items, these containers are a staple for single-serve portions, sauces, dips, small desserts, or on-the-go snacks. Their compact size makes them easy to transport, store, and serve—whether at a market stall, fast-casual restaurant, or catering event.
With tight-fitting lids included, these containers are built to be leak-resistant, ensuring mess-free handling during delivery or takeaway.
Key Benefits of 8oz Containers in the UK Market
1. Perfect for Single Servings:
Whether it’s a portion of hummus, a cup of fruit, soup, or rice, the 8oz container is ideal for moderate portions. It’s large enough to hold a satisfying amount but small enough to minimize food waste.
2. Portability and Stackability:
The round shape and standardized sizing allow for easy stacking, whether in the fridge, on a shelf, or during transport. This makes them a favourite for meal prep services and food delivery operations.
3. Secure and Leak-Proof Lids:
Especially important for sauces, soups, and yoghurts, the tight-sealing lids prevent leaks and keep food fresh longer. This enhances the customer’s experience and reduces the risk of spillage during delivery.
4. Multiple Material Options:
Available in recyclable plastic, biodegradable kraft paper, and compostable bagasse, 8oz containers can align with any business’s environmental and practical needs.
5. Enhances Food Presentation:
Thanks to their uniform, professional appearance, these containers help showcase food in an appealing and appetising way—ideal for Instagram-worthy meals or neatly arranged deli counters.
Common Applications Across the UK
The 8oz container is especially popular among businesses looking to serve smaller portions while keeping food visually appealing and securely packaged. Here’s where you’ll often find them in action:
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Cafés & Coffee Shops: For yoghurt parfaits, chia pudding, porridge, or side salads.
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Delis & Grocery Counters: To package olives, dips, couscous, and cold salads.
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Street Food & Market Stalls: Used for side dishes like coleslaw, sauces, or small bites.
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Meal Prep Companies: Perfect for controlled portions of vegetables, grains, and sauces.
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Dessert Vendors: Ideal for individual servings of mousse, fruit salad, custard, or mini trifles.
Material Options: A Match for Every Food Type
Depending on your business type and sustainability goals, the UK market offers several material options for 8oz containers:
1. PET Plastic (Polyethylene Terephthalate):
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Clear and attractive.
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Great for cold foods and refrigerated items.
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Fully recyclable, widely accepted in UK curbside recycling schemes.
2. Polypropylene (PP) Plastic:
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Microwave-safe and heat-resistant.
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Durable and suitable for both hot and cold items.
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Common in hot takeaway food and soup packaging.
3. Kraft Paper with PLA Lining:
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Made from renewable resources.
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Lined with plant-based PLA (polylactic acid) for leak protection.
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Biodegradable and compostable under industrial conditions.
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A favourite for environmentally conscious brands.
4. Bagasse (Sugarcane Pulp):
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Compostable, biodegradable, and made from agricultural waste.
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Withstands hot and cold food.
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Naturally grease and water-resistant.
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Perfect for zero-waste events and eco-caterers.
Sustainability: Meeting Consumer and Regulatory Demands
With environmental concerns dominating consumer conversations and UK policy, sustainable packaging has become a non-negotiable factor for businesses. Consumers are more aware than ever of the environmental impact of packaging and are demanding change. In fact, according to a recent survey, over 75% of UK consumers prefer to buy from brands that use eco-friendly packaging.
Meanwhile, UK government regulations, including the Plastic Packaging Tax, incentivise the use of materials with at least 30% recycled content or biodegradable alternatives.
By opting for eco-conscious 8oz round containers, businesses not only comply with new rules but also attract environmentally aware consumers who care about making planet-friendly choices.
Where to Buy 8oz Round Containers in the UK
Numerous reliable suppliers offer 8oz containers with lids across the UK, catering to various business sizes and environmental preferences:
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Vegware: A UK-based leader in compostable packaging with strong eco-credentials.
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Dpltd.co.uk: Offers biodegradable and recyclable options for small and large food businesses.
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Cater 4 You: Great for plastic and paperboard containers with fast UK delivery.
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Takeaway Packaging UK: Specialists in custom branded takeaway packaging, including 8oz sizes.
Suppliers often provide options to buy in bulk, offer discounted rates, and allow custom branding, enabling your packaging to double as a marketing tool.
Choosing the Right Container for Your Food Business
To pick the perfect 8oz container, ask yourself the following:
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Is the food hot or cold?
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Will the item be eaten immediately or later (requiring refrigeration or microwaving)?
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Do you want to showcase the food (clear plastic) or align with eco values (kraft or bagasse)?
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Is leak resistance a priority?
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Do you need branding on the container or lid?
Answering these questions will help you narrow down the right container for your operation while enhancing the customer experience.
Conclusion
Compact, convenient, and sustainable, 8oz Round Containers + Lids (228ml) are an essential tool for food businesses across the UK. Whether you’re dishing out side salads, serving yoghurts, or offering sauces to go, these containers strike the perfect balance between practicality and presentation.
With material options to suit any brand ethos—from recyclable plastic to compostable paper—and designs that protect freshness and prevent spills, 8oz containers help deliver quality with every bite. In today’s market, where eco-responsibility and customer experience are key, investing in the right packaging isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
