Deli containers come in an almost infinite variety of materials and shapes. You can get them in round, square or rectangular shapes, and in either plastic or earth-friendly materials!
Key considerations when selecting one include the desired level of durability, the appropriateness of the size for the food being stored, and their food compatibility. For example, leak-resistant lids are a must for soups, and stackable designs help save space in refrigerators. Knowing these features allows you to be more organized and greatly improves food safety.
What Are Deli Containers
Deli containers are known for being one of the best value food packaging options within the food service industry. You can also find them in restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and home kitchens. They are loved for their versatility, durability, and convenience.
More than just packaging food, these containers are essential to ensuring food quality, safety and freshness.
Definition of Deli Containers
Designed for food storage, deli containers are ideal for holding sauces, soups, side dishes, and more. They fit a wide variety of uses, coming in sizes from 8 to 32 ounces—perfect for tiny portions or big meals.
You have many different materials to select from. Material choices come in clear or translucent plastic, Kraft paper, and environmentally friendly alternatives such as bagasse and cornstarch, which are biodegradable and compostable. Hinged clamshell containers are a favorite for their convenience.
Common Uses of Deli Containers
Deli containers are an essential line of workhorses for any food service operation. They are commonly used to serve soups, sauces, salads, and takeaway foods in restaurants and catering operations.
Food trucks, delis, and a host of other businesses depend on them for quick, convenient service. Their stackable design is an excellent way to save space and maintain organized operations. Plus, deli containers are perfect for portion control, allowing businesses to prep uniform servings every time, minimizing food waste. Home cooks also appreciate them for their ability to organize prepped ingredients and store meals.
Importance in Food Packaging
Food packaging plays a key role in maintaining food quality, even during transportation. Well-designed, well-sealed containers ensure that food is fresh and flavorful and demonstrate to diners the care and quality of the business, leading to increased customer satisfaction.
In addition, deli containers provide a hygienic storage environment that greatly reduces the possibility of spoilage or contamination, allowing food companies to easily and effectively meet safety regulations and standards.
Materials Used for Deli Containers
Deli containers, made from various materials, serve multiple applications and meet diverse demands in the food business. Understanding the strengths and limitations of deli container materials is essential for businesses seeking to balance functionality, food safety, and sustainability.
Whether you’re running a restaurant, catering service, or deli, understanding the options available can help you make informed decisions that align with your business goals.
Plastic Deli Containers
Plastic deli containers offer a strong, durable option that is widely adopted by operators in the foodservice industry. Their crystal clear or translucent designs beautifully display food, making them perfect for foods such as salads, soups, and sauces.
However, traditional plastic materials aren’t biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to break down, creating negative environmental impacts. If your customers are eco-conscious, this could hurt your brand’s reputation. It’s crucial to weigh the cost of plastic against the potential long-term impact on your business.
Paper-Based Deli Containers
For companies looking for a more sustainable choice, paper-based deli containers offer a reliable alternative. That’s because paper is one of the most recyclable materials, with a 67% recycling rate in the U.S.
These containers are very lightweight and insulate extremely well, making them ideal for hot and cold foods such as hot pasta or sliced fruit. Also, due to their aesthetic simplicity, paper containers are perfect for enhancing the presentation of food, making it look rustic andmore environmentally friendly.
Compostable Bagasse Deli Containers
Bagasse deli containers, made from sugarcane fibers, offer an exceptional green option. They’re completely biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable, satisfying the needs of today’s consumers who demand sustainable solutions.
They are increasingly popular in the food industry as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastic. Unlike other plastics, our bagasse containers are extremely sturdy, microwaveable, and freezer-safe so they’re perfect for meals that are reheatable or frozen.
Glass Deli Containers
Glass deli containers offer a higher-end storage solution that’s perfect for showcasing food products. Additionally, their non-porous surface helps locks in freshness while preventing contamination, which makes them a more hygienic option.
Perfect for reheating, glass containers move easily from storage to serving, providing added benefits to customers. Though they are heavier and more costly, they provide a more reusable, long-term solution—especially for companies that are looking to invest in long-term strategies that reduce single-use packaging.
Metal Deli Containers
Not only are metal containers recyclable, but they’re reusable, they don’t warp over the years like plastic, making them a natural fit with sustainable business practices. With their modern design, they bring an air of elegance, which makes them the perfect option for high-end food services.
On the negative side, metal containers tend to be costlier and lack the insulation required for hot foods.
Key Features to Look For
Choosing the best deli containers is an important decision for any business operating within the food service industry. Quality containers protect your products. Beyond that, they help control quality, deliver convenience, and create the right image for customers. Ultimately, a well-chosen container strikes an ideal balance between functionality and esthetics, serving both operational needs and customer expectations. Here’s what to look for when choosing a deli container.
1. Sealability and Leak Resistance
An airtight seal is the most critical aspect of preventing food from going stale and leaking out. It’s of utmost importance for liquids like soups or sauces. They are prone to spill while being transported, resulting in an unsatisfied customer.
Whether using for transport or serving, leak-resistant containers can ensure deliveries are seamless and hassle-free. Most companies test a container’s sealability by filling them with a liquid. They follow up by shaking it slightly to check for any leakage.
While seemingly minor, this step can prevent you from dealing with frustrating customer complaints and returns down the road when buying containers wholesale.
2. Stackability and Storage Efficiency
Deli containers that are stackable can provide a simple, effective means of making the most of your kitchen’s sometimes tight storage space. Neatly stacked containers save space and help maintain an efficient workspace. Selecting containers that work with your current shelving or storage system make operations even easier. At the same time, ensure easy handling, look for containers that are easy to open and close.
3. Size and Shape Options
With a wide variety of sizes and shapes, deli containers can fit any food service need. Smaller containers, like 8 oz to 12 oz, are ideal for single servings of side dishes or dips. Medium-sized deli containers, ranging from 16 oz to 24 oz, can be used for takeout entrees or soups.
Larger options, like 32 oz and up, make great containers for family-sized portions or for larger, bulk foods like stews. Additionally, rounded shapes often enhance portability, while square or rectangular shapes optimize storage and presentation on shelves or in delivery bags.
A close evaluation of your menu and your portion sizes will assist you in determining the right combination of sizes for your business.
4. Durability and Strength
Durable deli containers are specifically designed to endure the rigors of everyday use ranging from hot food storage to transport. Thick, quality materials help protect against cracks and spills, keeping the food inside safe and secure.
By investing in options with durable qualities, there is less chance of a product becoming ruined and incurring replacement costs over time.
5. Recyclability and Sustainability
Eco-conscious alternatives such as compostable bagasse or cornstarch plastic containers are both biodegradable and recyclable. These are in line with shifting consumer preferences, with 77% of Gen Z and 62% of Baby Boomers saying sustainability matters.
By promoting your use of eco-friendly packing you’re not just doing the right thing – you’re boosting your brand’s environmental vibe.
6. Microwave and Freezer Compatibility
Customers appreciate convenience, so providing containers that are both microwave and freezer-safe can elevate your offering. Look for containers that withstand extreme temperatures without compromising their structure. The following table is a brief overview, for more specific information, please refer to this blog post of ours
| Material | Microwave Compatibility | Freezer Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic | Limited | Moderate |
| Glass | Excellent | Excellent |
| Bagasse | Excellent | Excellent |
7. Food Safety
Food safety is of the utmost importance. These containers should be made to FDA food contact standards and should not contain toxic chemicals such as BPA.
Bagasse containers do a great job, as they repel oils and smells and contain no toxic chemicals. Best practices for storage are to ensure containers are sealed and kept away from potential contaminants.
Choosing the Right Deli Container for Specific Food Types
Not every food requires the same type of container. Different deli items need different solutions to ensure they stay fresh and appetizing.
- Best Deli Containers for Salads and Cold Cuts
Cold cuts and salads require containers that maintain crispness without sogginess. Clear plastic or molded pulp with vented lids can be a great choice for these items. - Hot Food Containers: Keeping Soups, Stews, and Hot Sandwiches Warm
For hot deli items, insulated containers that can maintain heat without warping are ideal. Look for materials that withstand heat and prevent leakage. - Best Deli Containers for Sauces and Dressings
Small, leak-proof containers with tight-fitting lids are essential for sauces and dressings. Consider options with a secure closure to prevent spills during delivery. - Choosing the Right Deli Container for Bulk Orders
For large catering orders, bulk deli containers should be durable and easy to stack. Choose containers that hold multiple portions while preserving food quality.
Hidden Costs of Cheap Deli Containers
Opting for cheaper deli containers can seem like a good way to save a few bucks upfront. However, bad packaging comes at a hidden cost that can easily outpace those upfront savings. Selecting low-end, cheap containers may result in increased food waste and lower customer satisfaction. These unanticipated problems can severely hurt your business in the long run. Below, we dive deep into these hidden costs.
Poor Quality Leading to Waste
Poor quality containers can be ineffective in maintaining food freshness, leading to wasted food. For instance, cheap containers that don’t seal properly can result in leaking or exposure to air, speeding up food degradation.
Not only does spoiled food lead to direct financial loss, but it can damage customer trust. By choosing better-built, well-sealed packaging, businesses can reduce both waste and harm in the long run.
Negative Customer Perception
We know that the packaging is a customer’s first touchpoint with a product. Cheap, flimsy containers don’t hold up and crack, leak or fail to perform under regular, everyday use and that’s going to result in unhappy customers.
Your customers will link subpar packaging to a lack of professionalism or consideration on your part, potentially costing you repeat business. By investing in quality materials, you are guaranteed not just functionality, but a polished look that further builds brand loyalty.
Limited Reusability and Durability
Cheap deli containers aren’t as resilient which results in more replacements. Such as plastic containers that warp with heat or crack with a light squeeze serve as little value.
More durable options such as reusable plastic or durable compostable materials lower turnover costs while offering better long term value.
Environmental Consequences
Cheaper containers are a major cause of environmental pollution. Most of them are made from non-recyclable plastics that sit in landfills for hundreds of years. Not all plastics are created equally, as some of them can leach harmful chemicals such as BPA. When heated, these chemicals can leach into food and cause numerous health risks.
Opting for eco-friendly alternatives is a great way to show your business’s commitment to social responsibility and meet today’s consumers’ increasing demand for sustainable products.
Creative Uses Beyond Takeout
Okay, we all know deli containers are takeout heroes. But think bigger! These little guys are way more versatile than you realize, and they can seriously streamline your kitchen operations and save you money.Forget limiting them to just sending food out the door. Here are some seriously clever uses for deli containers that’ll make you wonder how you ever managed without them:
- Portion Perfection: Say goodbye to inconsistent portion sizes! Use deli containers to pre-portion ingredients like sauces, spices, dressings, and even sides. This ensures consistent dishes every time, reduces food waste, and speeds up service.
- Prep Powerhouse: Chop veggies? Make a marinade? Deli containers are perfect for storing prepped ingredients. Their stackable design maximizes fridge space, and the airtight seal keeps everything fresh and ready to go.
- Sauce Boss: Batch-made your signature sauce? Divide it into deli containers for easy access during service. Label them clearly so your cooks know exactly what they’re grabbing.
- Ingredient Inventory Champion: Decant dry goods like grains, beans, and spices into deli containers. An organized kitchen optimizes the flow of a busy kitchen and eliminates excess clutter, allowing staff to work faster and more efficiently.
- Catering Command Center: For off-site catering gigs, pre-portion salads, desserts, and other individual servings in deli containers. It makes setup a breeze and keeps everything fresh and presentable.
- Staff Meal Savings: Leftovers from the day? Send your staff home with a delicious and convenient meal in a deli container. It’s a great perk that reduces food waste and keeps your team happy!
Stop limiting your deli containers to just takeout. Unleash their full potential and watch your restaurant operations become more efficient, organized, and cost-effective!
Where to Source the Best Deli Containers for Your Business
The right supplier is just as important as the right container. Here’s how to find the best source for your deli containers.
- Online vs. Local Suppliers: What’s Best for Your Business?
While online suppliers may offer convenience, local suppliers can offer more personalized service and faster turnaround times. - Identifying Reliable Suppliers for Bulk Orders
Look for suppliers that specialize in bulk orders of deli containers. A reliable supplier can provide consistent quality and timely delivery. - The Benefits of Buying Deli Containers Directly from Manufacturers
By buying directly from manufacturers, you can often negotiate better prices and receive tailored products that meet your specific needs.
Conclusion
The right deli container can go a long way toward keeping your business profitable. Correct one protects food, promotes your brand, and saves money over time. From durable plastics to compostable bagasse, there’s every kind of deli container to suit your needs. Convenient features such as leak-proof lids, stackable designs, and clear materials provide added benefits for your operation and your customers. Consider the unseen costs of low-quality containers—they’re going to cause spills, wasted food, and dissatisfied customers.
Carefully consider what qualities you look for from a supplier—quality, customization, price. The right partner puts you on the path to success. Plan ahead, make the right decisions today to maintain customer satisfaction and build a successful future for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are deli containers commonly used for?
Deli containers are one of the most common food packaging solutions for storing, packaging, and transporting items including soups, salads, sauces and prepared leftovers. They do an excellent job of portioning and organizing ingredients in a home or commercial kitchen.
What materials are deli containers made of?
Deli containers, such as those made from polypropylene or PET, are available in various sizes and materials, including sustainable options like bagasse, offering advantages like durability, recyclability, and compostability for food service packaging.
Are deli containers microwave-safe?
Not all deli containers are microwave-safe. Bagasse deli containers are microwaveable, so food can be reheated directly in the product itself. Of course, always look at the manufacturer’s labels.
What are the benefits of eco-friendly deli containers?
Sustainable deli containers, such as compostable deli containers made from renewable resources like bagasse, serve as a biodegradable alternative that helps to lessen your environmental footprint. These quality food containers provide the eco-friendly solution to traditional plastics without sacrificing performance.
How can I customize deli containers for my business?
Depending on the size and type, various deli containers can be customized with your logo, branding, or custom design. Most suppliers can provide printing services, allowing you to enhance brand visibility and present your ideal deli food containers more professionally to impress your customers.
What are the hidden costs of cheap deli containers?
Poor-quality, inexpensive deli containers can crack, leak, or fail to preserve food quality, leading to food waste and unhappy customers. By investing in durable, high-quality food containers, you can save money over the long term while enhancing the user experience.
Can deli containers be used for non-food purposes?
So, are deli containers useful for other purposes? They can be used to store craft supplies, organize small household items like batteries or screws, or even as DIY planters. Their durable construction allows them to be used for much more than just food storage.
