Quick answer: Choose food containers by portion size, food type, temperature, transport needs and whether a secure lid is required. For takeaway and catering, the right container should hold the meal comfortably, close properly and travel without leaking or crushing the food.
Start with the type of food
Different meals place different demands on packaging. A dry sandwich, a saucy curry, a pasta dish and a mixed meal with sides all need different container shapes and depths.
For general takeaway and storage options, browse Food Containers & Tubs at Just About Anything.
Match the container to the portion
A container that is too large can make a normal portion look undersized, while a container that is too small can make the lid difficult to close and increase the chance of spills.
Before buying in quantity, compare the listed capacity or dimensions with the portion you normally serve. If the meal includes several components, choose enough depth and width to keep the food presentable.
Choose the right depth and shape
Shallow containers can work well for flatter foods, sandwiches and plated-style meals. Deeper tubs are often better for rice dishes, curries, pasta, stews and foods with sauces.
Rectangular containers are useful for stacking and meal prep, while round tubs can be practical for soups, sauces and single-dish meals.
When is a lid essential?
A secure lid becomes more important as soon as food needs to travel. It helps protect the meal, reduces the chance of spills and makes stacking easier.
- Check that the lid fits the exact container.
- Avoid overfilling before closing the lid.
- Leave some headroom for foods with sauces or toppings.
- Test the fit before committing to a large quantity.
Think about temperature
Always choose packaging suitable for the temperature of the food you plan to serve. Hot meals, chilled foods and room-temperature snacks do not necessarily need the same type of container.
If a product description includes temperature or use guidance, follow it. Where that information is not stated, avoid assuming that every disposable container is suitable for very hot food or reheating.
Takeaway vs catering vs meal prep
Takeaway food
Takeaway containers should be easy to close, stable in a delivery bag and sized closely to the meal portion.
Catering
Caterers benefit from using a small range of standard sizes across multiple dishes. This can simplify storage, preparation and packing during busy service periods.
Meal prep
For meal prep, stackability and consistent portion size are especially useful. Choose containers that fit neatly in storage and make it easy to portion repeated meals.
Transport matters as much as the container itself
Even a suitable container can fail if it is packed badly. Keep heavier meals at the bottom, avoid placing pressure on flexible lids and use outer bags or boxes that help containers stay upright.
For larger orders, Carrier & Shopping Bags and Trays & Platters may also help with presentation and transport.
A simple food container checklist
- Food: Is it dry, saucy, oily or liquid?
- Portion: What capacity or dimensions are needed?
- Temperature: Will it be packed hot, cold or room temperature?
- Lid: Does it need to travel?
- Stacking: Will several containers be packed together?
Frequently asked questions
What food containers are best for takeaway meals?
The best option depends on the meal. Saucy foods generally need deeper containers with secure lids, while flatter meals and dry foods may work well in shallower containers or boxes.
How do I choose the right takeaway container size?
Compare the container capacity and dimensions with the portion you normally serve. The food should fit comfortably without making the container look empty or forcing the lid upward.
Are food containers useful for meal prep?
Yes. Consistent container sizes can make meal prep easier because portions are more repeatable and the containers can be stacked and stored more neatly.
Where can I buy food containers online in South Africa?
Just About Anything sells food containers and tubs online in South Africa for takeaway meals, catering, meal prep, events and everyday food storage.
Shop food containers online
Browse Food Containers & Tubs at Just About Anything to compare different shapes, capacities and pack sizes.
Related guides
- How to Choose Disposable Packaging for Catering, Parties & Takeaway Food
- How to Choose Cups, Lids & Straws for Cold Drinks & Takeaway
