Plan Your Packaging Volumes Early

Looking back at last year’s Black Friday and November sales is the simplest way to estimate what you’ll need this year. Consider how many containers, lids, trays and sealing materials you used, then factor in any expected growth.If you’re introducing promotional bundles, limited edition products or larger sharing portions, make sure these are included in your forecast. New product launches often require different packaging sizes, so it’s worth reviewing your full packaging range before placing an order.Smaller businesses may find combi boxes, with matching containers and lids supplied together, the most convenient option. If you’re expecting significantly higher volumes, pallet quantities of bulk food containers are the more cost-effective option.Browse our range of tamper evident containers and top seal containers to plan your requirements, or request a bulk quoteif you’re preparing for larger production runs.

Food Packaging Supplier Stock and Lead Times

Demand naturally increases as Black Friday approaches, and the wider global polymer market remains volatile. This can affect pricing and availability across some packaging lines, which is why we recommend ordering ahead of time where possible.You can read more about current market conditions in our latest polymer market update.If you’re introducing a new product or changing packaging, order samples first so you can test sizing, presentation and product fit before committing to larger quantities. Samples are free, and you only pay the postage.Businesses producing frozen meals, desserts or frozen prepared foods should also review our range of freezer grade containers before finalising their order.

Know Your Order and Delivery Cut-Off Dates

Delivery timings matter as much as product choice. Allow enough time for your packaging to arrive before your busiest trading period begins.Orders placed before midday, Monday to Thursday, are dispatched for next-day delivery. Friday morning orders placed before 12pm are dispatched for Monday delivery.During exceptionally busy periods, delivery can take up to three working days. Palletised deliveries typically require three to five working days, so larger orders should always be planned in advance. Free UK mainland delivery is available on orders over £150 excluding VAT. Saturday delivery and timed delivery services are also available, with Saturday delivery depending on location.For full details, visit our shipping information page.

When Should You Order From Your Food Packaging Supplier for Black Friday?

We reccomend allowing additional time for pallet deliveries and periods of increased demand, and avoid leaving orders until the week of Black Friday itself.

Leave Time for Branded Packaging

If you’re planning to launch branded packaging for Black Friday, start those conversations with us as early as possible.We offer printed self-adhesive labels with a minimum order quantity of 1,000, bespoke cardboard sleeves from 1,000 units, and in-mould labelling for larger production runs from 25,000 units.Branded packaging often becomes part of the customer experience, particularly for retail products, meal deliveries and gift items, so order early to have it in place when demand peaks.

Talk to Us Early

Sharing your expected order volumes, promotional plans and new product launches allows us to recommend suitable packaging and quantities before your busiest trading period begins.Our sales team is available Monday to Friday, from 8.30am until 5pm, on 01225 751898. You can also contact us through our contact form if you’d prefer us to get back to you.If you order regularly, it’s also worth exploring our credit accounts to make repeat ordering easier.

Packaging for Every Type of Food Business

Farm shops, delis and retail food businesses often see increasing customer numbers as Black Friday leads into the festive season. Our tamper evident containers are suitable for pâtés, cheeses, sauces and ready meals, while gift food businesses can also prepare for seasonal hamper demand with ideas from our guides to PatePAK Christmas containers and hamper packaging.Takeaways, caterers and dark kitchens can experience particularly busy weekends during Black Friday promotions. Our microwavable tamper evident containers and food and meal trays are designed for busy kitchens handling delivery orders and catering jobs, and we supply takeaway packaging wholesale in combi boxes or full pallets.Online food brands and meal kit companies often experience some of their highest order volumes during Black Friday. Secure tamper evident containers help demonstrate products haven’t been opened during transit, while branded packaging creates a more premium unboxing experience. Our range of meal kit containers supports businesses shipping prepared meals directly to customers.

Get Ready for Black Friday

Reviewing your packaging requirements now means the right products are in stock when customer demand increases, and puts you in a stronger position for the busy Christmas trading period that follows.Request a free sample to test new products before Black Friday.Planning pallet quantities? Get a bulk quote from our team.Speak to our sales team on 01225 751898 or get in touch online.

The post Food Packaging Supplier Checklist: Get Black Friday Ready appeared first on SystemPAK.

For many food producers, rectangular tamper evident containers tick every box. Within our range, the 750ml container is the most practical size for single-portion meals, with the right capacity for a main dish and a shape that packs, stacks and travels well.

What Tamper Evident Packaging Does for Ready Meals

Tamper evident packaging gives customers confidence that their meal hasn’t been opened since it left your kitchen. The lid has a security tab that breaks the first time it’s opened, so anyone can see at a glance whether the seal is intact.

That simple feature builds trust, particularly for takeaway deliveries and retail ready meals that pass through several hands before reaching the customer. It can also help reduce complaints about packaging being opened in transit.

For a closer look at the mechanism, read our guide on how tamper evident seals work.

Ready Meal Packaging in the 192 x 129 Rectangular Range

Our 192 x 129 rectangular range shares a consistent footprint of approximately 192mm by 128mm across multiple capacities. This lets you offer different portion sizes while keeping a uniform, professional look across your product line.

Capacities run from 500ml to 2200ml, with 750ml, 1000ml, 1200ml, 1300ml, 1600ml and 2000ml in between.

Using one footprint across several sizes simplifies storage, presentation and production planning, and gives customers a range they recognise. You can also browse our full selection of ready meal containers and meal prep containers.

Why the 750ml Container Suits Single-Portion Meals

The 750ml container suits producers of individual ready meals, from retail lines to delivery services. It gives a generous single portion without wasted space.

It works particularly well for curries, pasta dishes, chilli, rice meals, stews, stir-fries and high-protein meal prep, and keeps portion sizes consistent across production runs.

At 192mm x 128mm x 45mm, the shallow profile helps food reheat evenly and stacks neatly in storage and transport.

The container is made from polypropylene and is suitable for microwave reheating, hot filling up to 85°C, freezer storage and dishwasher use. Polypropylene (resin code 5) is widely recycled where local collection schemes accept it.

We offer three versions to suit different food businesses.

The standard clear 750ml rectangular tamper evident container (SKU 2104) gives full product visibility, ideal for retailers who want customers to see the quality of the meal inside.

The black 750ml container with clear lid creates a more premium presentation for restaurant-quality takeaway meals and higher-end prepared foods.

For frozen products, the white freezer grade 750ml container is designed for businesses supplying frozen ready meals.

Each container is produced to ISO and BRC-approved food safety standards.

Choosing Chilled or Frozen Ready Meal Packaging

The right version depends on how your meals are sold. The clear container suits chilled and hot-filled meals, and the black version offers a more premium look for chilled and takeaway dishes. For meals sold frozen, the white freezer grade option is the best fit among our freezable meal prep containers. For more frozen options, see our full range of freezer grade containers.

Branding Your Containers

We offer several ways to put your brand on your packaging. Printed self-adhesive labels start from a minimum order of 1,000 and have room for branding, ingredients, allergens and nutritional information.

For a more premium finish, bespoke cardboard sleeves are also available from 1,000 units.

Higher-volume producers can choose in-mould labelling, available from 25,000 units, which builds your design directly into the container.

Ordering, Samples and Bulk Supply

Combi boxes contain matching numbers of containers and lids, which makes ordering easy for small and medium-sized food businesses. Larger producers can order pallet quantities to support higher volumes and regular packing runs.

Orders placed before midday, Monday to Thursday, are dispatched for next-day delivery. Free UK mainland delivery applies to orders over £150 excluding VAT.

Free samples are available, and you only pay the postage.

Request a free sample of the 750ml container before you commit.

Need pallet quantities? Get a bulk quote from our team.

FAQs

Can you microwave tamper evident ready meal containers?

Yes. Our polypropylene tamper evident containers are suitable for microwave reheating. They aren’t designed for conventional ovens, so if your meals need oven cooking, our OvenPAK top seal range is the right choice.

What size container is best for a single ready meal portion?

For many food businesses, a 750ml food container gives a generous single portion without wasted space. It comfortably holds pasta, curry, chilli, rice dishes and similar single-serve meals while keeping a neat, consistent presentation.

Are 750ml rectangular containers freezer safe?

Yes. Our standard clear 750ml container is suitable for freezer storage, and the white freezer grade version is made specifically for frozen ready meals. If you’re producing frozen meals at volume, the freezer grade option is the one we recommend.

Can I put my own branding on ready meal packaging?

Yes. We offer printed self-adhesive labels, bespoke cardboard sleeves and in-mould labelling. Each option lets you add your branding alongside ingredients, allergen information and nutritional details.

Do you sell ready meal containers in bulk?

Yes. We supply wholesale meal prep containers to businesses ranging from independent caterers to large food manufacturers. You can order combi boxes or full pallets depending on your production needs.

The post Ready Meal Packaging: Why Rectangular Tamper Evident Containers Make Sense appeared first on SystemPAK.

The majority are made from polypropylene, commonly identified by the number 5 plastic code. Polypropylene is widely used for food packaging because it is strong, lightweight and suitable for many hot, chilled and frozen applications.

However, whether a complete pack can be recycled depends on more than the container itself. Its lid, label, sleeve, colour and any remaining food residue can all affect how successfully it is collected, sorted and reprocessed.

With Simpler Recycling changing household collections in England and Extended Producer Responsibility linking packaging fees to recyclability, understanding these details has become increasingly important for food producers choosing tamper evident containers.

What plastic are tamper evident containers made from?

Most rigid tamper evident containers are manufactured from polypropylene, usually referred to as PP.

Polypropylene carries resin identification code 5. This is the small number that may appear inside a triangular symbol moulded into the base of a container.

The code identifies the main plastic used to manufacture the product. It is not, by itself, a guarantee that an item will be accepted by every recycling service.

Why is polypropylene used for food packaging?

Polypropylene offers a useful combination of strength and flexibility. This makes it particularly well suited to tamper evident food packaging.

It can flex during filling, closing and transport without cracking easily. It also allows the tamper evident feature to break as intended when the container is opened for the first time.

Depending on the specification, polypropylene packaging may be suitable for:

• Hot filling
• Chilled food
• Freezer storage
• Short-term microwave use
• Liquids and sauces
• Repeated handling during transport

SystemPAK containers are suitable for hot filling at temperatures between 85°C and 95°C, subject to the appropriate product testing. Standard empty containers are tested to –18°C, while specialist resins are available for freezer-grade applications down to –32°C.

Always check the technical data sheet and test the container with your own product, filling process and storage conditions before placing a large order.

How are UK recycling collections changing?

Simpler Recycling is intended to make recycling collections more consistent across England.

Since 31 March 2026, local authorities have been required to collect a common set of recyclable materials from households. This includes plastic pots, tubs and trays made from PET, PP and PE, alongside other core materials such as paper, card, glass and metal.

For PP tamper evident containers, this should make household recycling more straightforward. However, collection instructions can still vary while local services and sorting arrangements are updated.

Consumers should therefore continue to follow the guidance provided by their local authority.

Plastic films and flexible packaging are being introduced separately, with household collection required from 31 March 2027. This is particularly relevant where a rigid tray is used with a flexible lidding film.

Why recyclability can affect packaging costs

Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging, commonly known as packaging EPR, makes obligated producers responsible for more of the cost of managing household packaging waste.

Obligated producers must report packaging data, and large producers must additionally assess the household packaging they supply using the Recyclability Assessment Methodology, or RAM.

RAM assesses packaging across several stages, including whether a component is likely to be:

• Collected
• Successfully sorted
• Reprocessed at scale

The resulting assessment places packaging into a Red, Amber or Green recyclability category.

From the 2026–27 scheme year, packaging waste management fees are adjusted according to these ratings. Packaging that is difficult to recycle may attract higher fees, while more readily recyclable formats may benefit from lower fees.

This means packaging design can affect both environmental performance and future business costs.

Our guide to Extended Producer Responsibility explains the reporting requirements in more detail.

Packaging choices that can affect recyclability

A polypropylene container may be recyclable, but the complete packaging format must be considered. Four design choices are particularly important.

1. Use compatible materials where possible

A PP container paired with a compatible PP lid creates a simpler packaging format than a pack made from several different materials. Reducing unnecessary material combinations can make packaging easier to sort and recycle.

This does not automatically guarantee a particular RAM rating, as size, colour, labels, adhesives and other components must also be considered.

2. Check trays and lidding films separately

A rigid PP tray and flexible lidding film may need to enter different recycling streams.

Where the materials need to be separated, clear instructions should tell the consumer to peel away the film before recycling the tray.

A compatible mono-material film may simplify the format, but its suitability will depend on the product, required barrier properties and sealing process. Speak to our team before making changes to an established packaging system.

3. Consider how colour affects sorting

Black plastic can present challenges for some recycling facilities.

Traditional carbon black pigments absorb the near-infrared light used by optical sorting equipment. This can prevent the machinery from identifying the plastic correctly, even when the material itself is recyclable.

Alternative detectable pigments are available, while natural, clear or non-black colours may be easier for sorting systems to recognise.

If you currently use black packaging, our team can help you explore the available options.

4. Choose labels and sleeves carefully

Decoration can also influence how a container performs at the end of its life.

In Mould Labelling integrates the label into the container during manufacturing. When compatible materials are selected, this can create a straightforward decorated packaging format without a separate adhesive label.

Printed cardboard sleeves can be removed and placed in the paper and card recycling stream, leaving the container to be recycled separately.

Self-adhesive labels sit between the two. A smaller label on a compatible substrate is generally less of an issue than a full-wrap label, though the adhesive used also matters.

Helping consumers recycle food packaging correctly

Clear disposal guidance can make a significant difference to whether packaging is successfully recycled.

Where appropriate, encourage consumers to:

• Empty the container and remove remaining food
• Give it a quick rinse
• Follow the recycling instructions printed on the pack
• Check their local authority’s collection guidance
• Separate sleeves or films where instructed
• Reattach compatible lids where local guidance recommends it

Food residue can reduce the quality of recovered material, particularly when containers have held oily, fatty or dairy-based products. Asking consumers to empty and rinse the pack can help it enter the recycling process in a cleaner condition.

On-pack recycling labelling is the clearest way to communicate this, and any claim made should accurately reflect the complete packaging format rather than the main material alone.

What about board trays and compostable alternatives?

Rigid plastic is not the only option, and for some products a board-based tray or a compostable format may suit the application better.

Our EcoPAK range includes cardboard top seal trays, which are dual ovenable and freezer safe. These trays currently use a PET lining to provide the barrier and sealing properties the format needs.

Because a lined board tray combines two materials, its disposal route differs from both plain card and rigid plastic. Where these trays are used, check the current guidance for the specific product and make sure any on-pack instructions reflect the complete format.

We are also developing a board tray with a plant-based PLA lining, made from renewable vegetable sources rather than fossil-based plastic. This is intended to give food producers a compostable option within the same tray format. Contact our team if you would like to be kept informed as this range becomes available.

It is worth noting that compostable packaging is not automatically a better choice than recyclable plastic. It requires an appropriate collection and treatment route to deliver its benefit, and it should not be placed in conventional plastic recycling. For operators with access to a suitable organic or commercial composting waste stream it can work well. For others, a recyclable rigid container may offer a clearer disposal route.

Visit our sustainable packaging page to explore the available options.

Frequently asked questions

Are tamper evident containers recyclable?

Most rigid tamper evident containers made from polypropylene are recyclable. Whether they are accepted at the kerbside will depend on the complete packaging format and the guidance provided by the local authority.

What plastic code are tamper evident containers?

Most tamper evident food containers are made from code 5 polypropylene. The identification code may be moulded into the base of the container.

Does the number 5 symbol guarantee kerbside recycling?

No. The symbol identifies the type of plastic used; it does not guarantee that every collection or recycling facility will accept the item.

Local guidance and the design of the complete pack should also be considered.

Can the lid be recycled with the container?

If the lid is made from a compatible material, it may be recyclable alongside the container. Consumers should follow the disposal guidance provided on the packaging and by their local authority.

Is black food packaging recyclable?

Black plastic may be technically recyclable, but traditional carbon black pigments can make it difficult for some optical sorting equipment to detect.

Non-black containers or packaging made with detectable pigments may be sorted more reliably.

Are EcoPAK board trays compostable?

The current EcoPAK cardboard top seal trays use a PET lining, so they are not compostable. A version with a plant-based PLA lining is in development. Contact our team for the latest position on availability.

Does recyclability affect EPR packaging fees?

Yes. Under the system of modulated fees, the recyclability assessment of household packaging influences the fees paid by obligated producers from the 2026–27 scheme year.

The final rating depends on the complete packaging component rather than the main material alone.

Find the right packaging for your product

Choosing sustainable packaging for food involves balancing recyclability with food safety, product protection, filling requirements, storage and presentation.

The SystemPAK team can help you compare suitable tamper evident containers and other food-packaging formats. Contact us for advice or request free samples to test with your own product.

The post Are Tamper Evident Containers Recyclable? UK Plastic Codes Explained appeared first on SystemPAK.

Every order leaving SystemPAK is checked, securely wrapped and labelled. However, parcels and pallets pass through courier depots and distribution networks before reaching you. Although damage is uncommon, checking your delivery straight away makes any problem much easier for us to investigate and resolve.

Our terms and conditions explain the delivery process in full. Here, we have broken down the most important points and the steps to follow if something is not right.

Why your delivery should be checked on arrival

Our terms ask customers to check every consignment when it is delivered and report any shortages or transit damage within three days of receipt.

This three-day reporting window gives us the best opportunity to raise a claim with the courier or manufacturer and arrange an appropriate solution. The sooner you contact us, the sooner our team can begin looking into the issue.

If possible, make sure someone is available to inspect and receive the delivery when it arrives.

What to check when your order arrives

1. Confirm the number of boxes or pallets

Check the number delivered against your order paperwork. If anything appears to be missing, make a note before signing for the consignment.

2. Inspect the outer packaging

Look for visible signs of damage, including:

• Crushed or split boxes
• Torn shrink wrap
• Punctures
• Water damage
• Damaged pallet corners
• Boxes that appear to have been opened or resealed

If you notice anything unusual, record it on the delivery paperwork.

3. Refuse a clearly damaged pallet if necessary

You do not have to accept a palletised delivery that is visibly damaged. If you refuse the consignment, it will be returned to the warehouse so that we can assess the issue and arrange replacement goods where appropriate.

4. Sign accurately for a partly damaged delivery

If only part of the consignment is damaged and you choose to accept it, record the number of affected boxes when signing.

If there is visible damage, do not sign to say the consignment was received in good condition. An accurate delivery note helps us support your claim.

5. Take photographs before unpacking

Photograph the full pallet or consignment before removing the wrapping, opening boxes or moving the goods into storage.

These images provide a clear record of how the order arrived and help us establish where the damage may have occurred.

6. Keep damaged goods to one side

Do not dispose of damaged packaging until we have assessed the claim and confirmed what to do next. We may need additional photographs or arrange for the goods to be collected.

Courier and pallet deliveries

The delivery process differs slightly depending on how your order is sent.

Courier deliveries

Courier deliveries should be checked on receipt, with any damage reported to us within three days.

Two delivery attempts will be made before the order is returned to the warehouse. If re-delivery is required, an additional charge will need to be paid before the goods can be sent out again.

Palletised deliveries

Pallet deliveries should also be checked on arrival. Any visible damage must be recorded when signing for the delivery and reported to SystemPAK within three days.

Only one delivery attempt is included for palletised orders, so please make sure someone is available to receive and inspect the pallet. A charge will apply if re-delivery is required.

You can find further information about lead times, delivery areas and possible surcharges on our delivery and shipping information page.

How to report damaged or faulty goods

If you discover damaged or faulty packaging, contact our team as soon as possible.

Clear photographs help us assess the problem and progress your report efficiently. Please provide:

• A photograph of the damaged box before it is opened
• Images showing all labels on the outer packaging
• Photographs of the internal and external packaging
• A clear image of the delivery label
• An image showing the affected items in full
• Close-up photographs of the damage
• One photograph showing all affected items together, where possible
• The number of damaged or faulty containers and lids

If the damage only becomes visible after opening a box, photograph the contents before removing them.

Where a fault only appears when the packaging is used, a short video may help us understand the issue more clearly.

Please do not return damaged goods directly to SystemPAK. Contact us first and we will arrange a collection where required.

What happens after you report a problem?

Once we receive your report and supporting photographs, our team will assess the information and contact you to discuss the available options.

Depending on the circumstances, the outcome may include:

• Partial replacement of the affected goods at no additional cost, where you would like to retain the remainder of the order
• A pro-rata refund if you would like to keep some of the order
• A credit note or discount voucher where most of the consignment has already been used

Our terms also state that reported damage affecting less than 2.5% of the items received is considered within the satisfactory quality tolerance commonly applied within the packaging industry. In these cases, a refund would not normally be offered.

For example, this would apply where six units are affected within a consignment of 250. This tolerance relates to our own claims process and does not affect any statutory rights you may have.

Before placing a larger packaging order

There are a few simple checks that can help prevent problems before you commit to a full production quantity.

Test a sample with your product

Food containers can perform differently depending on what they hold, how they are filled and the temperatures at which they are used or stored. This is particularly worth testing across our tamper evident containers and top seal ranges, where sealing performance depends heavily on the fill.

Our containers are tested as empty products. We therefore recommend carrying out your own trials using the actual food product, filling process and storage conditions you intend to use.

Free packaging samples are available to help you test suitability before ordering in volume.

Review the technical data sheet

Customers should check the relevant technical data sheet before purchasing to ensure the packaging is suitable for its intended use.

If you are unsure about temperature limits, storage, sealing or compatibility, our team will be happy to help.

Check container and lid quantities

When ordering in bulk, the number of containers and lids may not be identical. This is because products are packed according to their standard carton quantities.

Check the quantities shown on the product information or speak to our sales team if you need help calculating your order.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to report transit damage to SystemPAK?

Please notify us within three days of receiving your order. This allows us to investigate the problem and raise a claim with the courier or manufacturer where appropriate.

This reporting process does not replace any statutory rights you may have in relation to damaged or faulty goods. Please refer to our full terms and conditions for further details.

Can I refuse a damaged pallet delivery?

Yes. If a pallet is visibly damaged, you can refuse the consignment. It will be returned to the warehouse and we will arrange replacement stock where required.

What if I only find damage after accepting the delivery?

Contact us as soon as possible and within the three-day reporting window. Take photographs before removing the affected packaging from its box and keep all damaged goods and packaging to one side.

Should I return damaged goods myself?

No. Please contact SystemPAK first. We will advise you on the next steps and arrange collection if necessary.

Is there free delivery on packaging orders?

All orders over £150 excluding VAT receive free delivery within UK mainland. Full details, including delivery areas and possible surcharges, are on our delivery and shipping information page.

How long is SystemPAK packaging guaranteed to meet its technical specification?

Compliance with the relevant technical data sheet is guaranteed for 12 months from the delivery date, subject to suitable storage.

Packaging should be protected from direct sunlight, rain, moisture and very high or low temperatures.

Need help with your delivery?

Checking your food packaging delivery when it arrives gives us the information we need to investigate shortages or damage quickly.

For complete information, please read our terms and conditions. You can also visit our frequently asked questions or contact the SystemPAK team for further support.

The post Checking Your Food Packaging Delivery: What Our Terms and Conditions Mean for You appeared first on SystemPAK.

That’s In Mould Labelling (IML), and it’s increasingly within reach for food producers of all sizes. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is In Mould Labelling (IML)?

In Mould Labelling is a decoration technique in which a pre-printed polypropylene label is placed inside the mould before the container is formed. During the moulding process, the label fuses permanently with the container wall, becoming an integral part of the packaging rather than an add-on applied afterwards.

The result is packaging where the decoration and the container are effectively one material. There is no label to peel, no adhesive to fail in cold or wet conditions, and no gap between the print and the surface – just a clean, high-definition finish that maintains its appearance throughout the product’s shelf life.

Why Are Food Producers Moving to IML?

IML has historically been associated with high-volume production – large runs that justified the upfront investment in tooling and minimum order quantities that only bigger producers could absorb. That’s changed. With IML now available from as little as 10,000 pieces through our Print-Your-PAK branding service, the proposition is accessible to a much wider range of food businesses.

Here’s why producers who make the switch typically don’t go back.

Premium Visual Impact

IML delivers print quality that conventional labels struggle to match. Full wraparound coverage, photographic imagery, and bold, consistent colour are all achievable and because the decoration is fused to the container, it looks intentional and high-end in a way that a label applied after moulding rarely does. On a chilled or ambient shelf, this translates directly into standout.

No Label Failures in Cold or Wet Conditions

Self-adhesive labels are vulnerable. Cold temperatures, condensation, ice, and handling can cause them to peel, bubble, or lift – leaving packaging that looks damaged even when the product inside is perfectly fine. IML eliminates this entirely. The decoration is part of the container, so there is nothing to peel and no adhesive to fail, however demanding the storage or distribution conditions.

Recyclability

Because IML labels are made from the same polypropylene as the container body, there is no need for label removal before recycling. The container and label go through the recycling stream together, making IML a more straightforward option from a sustainability standpoint – in line with our broader commitment to sustainable packaging.

Production Efficiency

Applying labels to containers after moulding adds process steps, labour cost, and potential for variability. IML integrates decoration into the moulding process itself, removing a separate labelling operation and the associated material, labour, and machine costs. For producers running high volumes, this efficiency gain is material.

Brand Consistency

When your branding is part of the moulding process, every container in every run looks the same. There’s no label misalignment, no variation in adhesion quality, and no risk of labels being applied to the wrong container variant. For producers supplying retail accounts where consistency is scrutinised, this matters.

IML at SystemPAK: What’s Available

SystemPAK offers IML as part of our Print Your PAK branding range, applied to our tamper-evident container range. IML can be applied to containers, lids, or both, and is available in both clear and white container variants. Freezer-grade containers are also supported for applications requiring low-temperature performance.

The minimum order for IML at SystemPAK starts from 10,000 pieces – a significant reduction from what has historically been required to access this technology, and a threshold that many smaller food producers can now realistically meet.

How the IML Process Works at SystemPAK

Getting started with IML through SystemPAK is straightforward. You submit your artwork (or work with our in-house design team to create it), we handle pre-press and production, and your containers arrive with the decoration already integrated – ready to fill.

The quote process takes a few key pieces of information: which containers you want to brand, your annual volume, whether you need lids, containers, or both, and whether your products require freezer-grade specification.

To request a quote, complete the IML enquiry form here.

FAQs: IML on Tamper-Evident Containers

What is the minimum order quantity for IML at SystemPAK?

IML is available from as little as 10,000 pieces. Volume tiers run from 10,000–15,000 units up to 30,000+ units, with pricing varying accordingly. If you’re unsure whether your volumes make IML viable, completing the quote form is the easiest way to get a clear answer.

Can IML be applied to lids as well as containers?

Yes. IML can be applied to containers, lids, or both. If you want branding on both elements of the pack, that can be specified as part of your quote request.

Is IML available on freezer-grade containers?

Yes. SystemPAK supports IML on freezer-grade containers for producers whose products are stored or distributed at frozen temperatures.

How does IML compare to printed cardboard sleeves or self-adhesive labels?

Each option suits different situations. Self-adhesive labels are lower minimum order and quicker to turn around, making them good for smaller producers or frequently changing designs. Bespoke cardboard sleeves offer sustainability credentials and a tactile feel. IML delivers the premium visual finish and cold-chain reliability that the other methods can’t match, at higher volumes. SystemPAK offers all three through our Print-Your-PAK range – if you’re unsure which is right for your product, we can talk through the options.

Do I need my own artwork to use IML?

Having print-ready artwork will speed up the process, but it’s not a requirement. SystemPAK has an in-house design team who can work with you to develop or adapt artwork for IML production.

Are IML containers recyclable?

Yes. Because IML labels are made from the same polypropylene as the container, they don’t need to be separated before recycling. The full unit – container and decoration – goes through the same recycling stream. You can read more about sustainable packaging here. 

Ready to explore IML for your tamper-evident containers? Complete the quote form and a member of the SystemPAK team will be in touch.

The post IML on Tamper-Evident Containers: What, Why & How appeared first on SystemPAK.

Here are five practical ways to get more from your packaging budget.

1. Order Pallet Quantities Instead of Smaller Runs

One of the quickest wins available to most food producers is simply ordering more at once. Unit costs for packaging drop significantly when you move from smaller quantities to full pallet orders – often enough to offset the upfront outlay many times over.

Beyond the per-unit saving, ordering at pallet scale also reduces delivery frequency, cutting transport costs and the time spent managing repeat orders. For products you use consistently, forecasting your volumes and committing to pallet quantities is one of the most straightforward cost reductions available.

At SystemPAK, pallet ordering is available across our tamper-evident container and top-seal tray ranges, with next-day delivery and UK-stocked lines meaning you don’t have to sacrifice availability to access better pricing.

2. Choose Standard Stock Options Over Custom Specifications

Bespoke packaging has its place, but for many food producers, standard stock options deliver everything they need at a fraction of the cost. Custom moulds, non-standard sizes, and specialist materials all add to unit cost, tooling investment, and lead times.

Before specifying something bespoke, it’s worth asking whether a standard size and specification would do the job just as well. In most cases, the answer is yes. SystemPAK stocks an extensive range of food-specific containers in polypropylene (PP) and CPET across a wide variety of capacities and formats – round, rectangular, and square – meaning there’s usually a stock option that fits the application without the premium attached to custom work.

If you’re currently using a custom specification and haven’t reviewed it recently, it may be worth requesting samples of equivalent stock options to compare.

3. Match Trays and Films Correctly from the Start

Mismatched trays and lidding films are a surprisingly common – and costly – problem. Using a film that isn’t optimised for your tray material or sealing equipment can result in poor seal integrity, excessive film waste, increased rejection rates, and additional downtime for adjustments on the line.

Getting the combination right from the outset pays dividends. Different tray materials – PP, CPET, rPET – require different film types, and peelable versus weld-seal films have different performance characteristics depending on the application. If you’d like to understand the differences in more detail, our guide to weld seal vs peelable seal lidding films covers the key considerations. Making the right choice upfront avoids costly trial-and-error further down the line.

SystemPAK supplies lidding films matched to the trays in our range, including both peelable and weld-seal options. If you’re uncertain which combination is right for your product, our team can advise before you commit to stock.

4. Reduce Waste Through Improved Sealing Processes

Packaging waste on the production line – whether from poor seals, misaligned lids, or equipment set-up issues – represents real cost. Every rejected tray is not just the cost of the packaging itself, but the food inside it, the labour involved, and the time lost.

Improving sealing consistency doesn’t always require significant capital investment. Regular calibration of sealing equipment, ensuring correct dwell time and temperature settings for the tray-film combination in use, and training staff on correct loading and alignment can all make a measurable difference to reject rates.

For producers scaling up from manual to semi-automatic or automatic sealing, the reduction in seal variability alone often justifies the investment. SystemPAK offers a range of heat sealing machines – from manual profile-cut models to semi-automatic and fully automatic MAP machines – to suit different production volumes and budgets.

5. Regularly Review Your Packaging Specifications

Packaging specifications are often set at launch and rarely revisited – even as products, production lines, and supplier options change. A container size that was right three years ago may no longer be optimal. A material choice made when alternatives weren’t available may now have a more cost-effective equivalent.

Building a regular review of packaging specifications into your procurement process – even annually – can surface savings that would otherwise go unnoticed. Key questions to ask include: Is this the smallest container that meets our fill weight? Are we using the most cost-effective material for this application? Has our supplier’s range expanded to include better-matched stock options?

SystemPAK works with food producers across the UK to review current specifications and identify opportunities to reduce cost without compromising on quality or compliance. If you haven’t reviewed your packaging in the last 12 months, it’s worth a conversation. You can also browse our full top-seal range to see what’s currently available.

Ready to Reduce Your Packaging Costs?

SystemPAK is a UK-based food packaging distributor supplying tamper-evident containers, top-seal trays, lidding films, and sealing equipment to food producers, delis, farm shops, and caterers across the UK. With next-day delivery on stocked lines, free samples, and expert product advice, we make it straightforward to find the right packaging at the right price.

Browse the full range here or contact our team to discuss your requirements.

FAQs: Reducing Food Packaging Costs

Does ordering pallet quantities really make a significant difference to cost?

Yes. The unit price difference between small-quantity and pallet-quantity orders can be substantial – often 15–30% or more depending on the product. For high-volume lines, this saving compounds quickly. Combined with reduced delivery frequency, pallet ordering is one of the most effective ways to reduce packaging spend.

How do I know if my current tray and film combination is right?

If you’re experiencing inconsistent seals, higher-than-expected rejection rates, or going through film faster than expected, these are signs the combination may not be optimised. Our guide to lidding film types is a good starting point, and our team can help you review your current set-up and recommend adjustments.

Is standard packaging less professional than bespoke options?

Not necessarily. Standard stock containers from quality suppliers meet the same food-safety standards as bespoke options, and many producers achieve excellent shelf presence using standard containers with printed cardboard sleeves, self-adhesive labels, or In Mould Labelling (IML). Branding and customisation don’t have to mean custom packaging.

How often should I review my packaging specifications?

An annual review is a reasonable minimum for most producers. If your production volumes have changed significantly, if you’ve introduced new product lines, or if you haven’t changed supplier in several years, it’s worth a more immediate review. The packaging market evolves – new materials, new formats, and new pricing – and staying current can yield meaningful savings.

The post Five Ways Food Producers Can Reduce Packaging Costs appeared first on SystemPAK.

When it comes to top seal trays, two materials come up more than any other: CPET and PP. Both are widely used across food packaging, but they’re built for genuinely different jobs – and picking the wrong one can mean a tray that cracks in the oven, costs more than it needs to, or simply isn’t suited to how your product will be stored, reheated, or served.

At SystemPAK, our CPET trays sit within our OvenPAK range (including the smaller-format MenuPAK trays), and our PP trays form the core of our GastroPAK range – which also includes a small number of CPET size options. Here’s how to tell which one your business actually needs.

The Short Answer

If your product needs to go from freezer or fridge straight into an oven, CPET is the only sensible choice. CPET trays are dual ovenable, microwave safe, and freezer safe – but they cost more per unit.

If your priority is durable, cost-effective bulk packaging for catering or food service – without an oven requirement – PP is the better fit. PP trays are microwave safe and freezer safe, with a lower cost per unit thanks to better material yield, but they are not oven safe under any circumstances.

The deciding factor almost always comes down to one question: will this product, at any point in its life, go in an oven?

CPET: Built for Heat

CPET (Crystalline Polyethylene Terephthalate) is the material behind our OvenPAK range, including the smaller-format MenuPAK trays. Its defining feature is heat resistance – CPET trays are dual ovenable, meaning the same tray can go from freezer to conventional oven or microwave without losing structural integrity.

Where CPET makes sense:

• Ready meals designed to be oven-finished by the end customer
• Bake-off products that need oven contact as part of preparation or reheating
• Hot-fill applications where the tray is filled with hot product
• Retail packaging where “oven to table” convenience is part of the product’s appeal

Our OvenPAK range spans a wide capacity range, from compact formats through to large-format options, in standard and multi-cavity (compartmentalised) formats – useful for ready meals with separate components, like a main and a side. All are dual ovenable and freezer safe.

The trade-off: CPET typically costs more than PP per unit, largely because of the material properties needed to survive oven temperatures. If your product never sees an oven, you’re paying for a capability you don’t use.

Browse the OvenPAK range

PP: Built for Volume

Polypropylene (PP) is the material behind the majority of our GastroPAK range – designed specifically for bulk food packaging in catering operations, commercial kitchens, and large-scale food production. PP is lightweight, durable, and microwave safe for reheating.

On freezer compatibility: standard PP trays are typically rated down to -20°C, which covers most commercial chilled and frozen storage requirements. For applications requiring deeper freeze performance, specialist PP polymers are available that extend this down to -40°C – a capability that is increasingly in demand across the industry and worth discussing with our team if your products require it.

It’s also worth noting that GastroPAK includes a small number of CPET tray sizes alongside the PP range, for customers who need oven-safe performance within a primarily catering-focused product selection.

Where PP makes sense:

• Bulk packaging of meat, poultry, fish, ready meals, and desserts for catering or foodservice
• High-volume operations where cost-per-unit matters at scale
• Products that are reheated in a microwave rather than an oven
• Catering and commercial kitchen environments rather than oven-to-table retail

The key reason PP works out more cost-effective is its specific gravity – it yields more trays per tonne of raw material than CPET, which translates directly into lower production costs. For high-volume packers, that difference adds up fast.

The trade-off: GastroPAK PP trays are explicitly not suitable for conventional oven use. If your product needs oven-safe packaging anywhere in its lifecycle – even just for the end customer – PP isn’t the right material.

Browse the GastroPAK range.

CPET vs PP: Quick Decision Guide

Ask yourself these three questions:

1. Will this product ever go in an oven – including by the end customer?
If yes, you need CPET (OvenPAK or MenuPAK). PP is not rated for conventional oven use, regardless of how it’s reheated afterwards.

2. Is this for high-volume catering or bulk foodservice packing?
If cost-per-unit and volume are the priority, and oven use isn’t required, PP (GastroPAK) is generally the more efficient choice.

3. Does the product need both freezer and microwave compatibility, without oven use?
Both materials cover this. For standard frozen storage, standard PP (rated to -20°C) is typically sufficient and more economical. Where extended freeze performance to -40°C is needed, ask us about specialist PP polymer options.

Sealing and Compatibility

Both ranges are designed to work with SystemPAK’s top seal film and heat sealing equipment, with peelable or weld-seal film options, including anti-fog variants where clear visibility of the product matters. GastroPAK trays are compatible with our manual and automatic heat sealers – our sales team can advise on the right pairing for your tray size and seal type.

FAQs

Can CPET trays be used in the freezer?
Yes – CPET (OvenPAK) trays are freezer safe as well as oven and microwave safe, making them suitable for products that go from frozen storage straight into the oven.

Is PP recyclable?
Yes, PP (GastroPAK) is 100% recyclable, and is a widely accepted material in UK recycling streams.

Why is PP cheaper than CPET?
PP’s specific gravity allows for a higher yield of trays per tonne of raw material, which lowers the production cost per unit compared to CPET. This makes PP especially cost-effective for high-volume packing.

Can I put a PP tray in the oven if I just heat it briefly?
No – GastroPAK PP trays are not rated for conventional oven use under any duration. For any oven application, including bake-off or reheating, CPET (OvenPAK or MenuPAK) is the correct material.

Which is better for ready meals?
It depends on how the meal is intended to be reheated. Oven-finished or “bake at home” ready meals need CPET. Meals designed purely for microwave reheating can use either material, with PP often the more cost-effective choice at volume.

What freezer temperature rating do PP trays have?
Standard PP trays are rated to -20°C, which covers the majority of commercial frozen storage applications. Specialist PP polymers rated to -40°C are also available for more demanding requirements – contact our team to discuss.

Do you offer free samples of CPET and PP trays?
Yes – samples of OvenPAK (CPET), MenuPAK, and GastroPAK (PP and CPET) trays are available; you’ll only need to cover postage.

The post CPET vs PP Trays: Which Is Right for Your Food Packaging? appeared first on SystemPAK.

If you supply, prepare, or sell food, the packaging it goes into isn’t just a presentation choice – it’s a legal one. UK food businesses have a duty to ensure that any container, film, or lid touching their product is safe, suitable, and properly documented. Yet “compliant packaging” is a phrase that gets used loosely, and it’s not always clear what it actually guarantees.

This guide breaks down what food packaging compliance really means in the UK: the certifications that matter, what food contact compliance covers, why migration testing exists, and the questions we’re asked most often by customers trying to get this right.

What “Food-Grade” Actually Means

“Food-grade” isn’t a single tickbox – it’s shorthand for a packaging item meeting the requirements to safely come into contact with food without contaminating it, tainting its flavour, or compromising its safety. In UK law, this sits under the Food Contact Materials (FCM) framework, which applies to anything intended to touch food: containers, films, lids, even the inks used in printing on packaging.

For a food business, using compliant packaging isn’t optional – it’s a legal requirement under food safety law, and Trading Standards and Environmental Health Officers can and do check it during inspections and audits.

BRCGS Certification: What It Covers (and What It Doesn’t)

BRCGS (formerly BRC) is one of the most widely recognised quality and safety standards in food packaging, and it’s a certification we hold across our product range. In short, it means the manufacturing process behind a product has been independently audited against strict criteria for hygiene, traceability, quality control, and consistency.

What BRCGS certification tells you:

• The factory’s processes have been independently audited, not just self-declared
• There’s a documented system for traceability – if something goes wrong, it can be traced back through the supply chain
• Hygiene and quality controls are checked regularly, not just at initial certification

What it doesn’t automatically tell you on its own:

• The specific material grade of an individual product (that’s a separate spec, not a certification)
• Whether a product has passed migration testing for your specific food type (more on this below)
• Country-of-origin or full supply chain transparency beyond the certified site

BRCGS is a strong baseline indicator of a well-run, audited manufacturing process – but it works alongside other documentation, not instead of it. A reputable supplier should be able to provide BRCGS certificates, technical data sheets, and migration test results as separate, available documents.

Food Contact Compliance: The Legal Layer

Food contact compliance refers to a packaging item meeting the requirements of UK food contact material regulations – primarily retained EU Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 and its supporting measures, which set out the general principle that materials in contact with food must not transfer their constituents into the food in quantities that could endanger health, change its composition unacceptably, or alter its taste and smell.

For plastics specifically, Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 (the “Plastics Regulation”) goes further, setting out:

• Which substances can be used in food contact plastics
• Specific migration limits (SMLs) for individual substances
• Overall migration limits (OMLs) – the total amount of material allowed to transfer into food
• Declaration of Compliance (DoC) requirements – documentation a manufacturer or importer should be able to provide confirming the material meets the relevant rules

This is the layer that sits underneath certifications like BRCGS. A factory can be BRCGS certified and still need to demonstrate, product by product, that the actual plastic or board used is suitable for the food types and conditions (temperature, fat content, contact time) it will be used for.

Migration Testing: Why It Matters

Migration testing is the process of checking whether chemical substances from the packaging material transfer (“migrate”) into food, and if so, how much. It’s central to food contact compliance because it’s the actual evidence behind the legal limits.

Testing typically uses food simulants – substances that mimic the properties of real food (such as fatty, acidic, or aqueous foods) – under conditions that reflect realistic use, including:

• Contact time (a container used for a few hours behaves differently to one used for frozen storage over months)
• Temperature (oven-safe trays, freezer-grade containers, and ambient packaging all face very different conditions)
• Food type (fatty foods such as cheese or pâté tend to interact differently with plastics than watery or dry foods)

This is why a container’s stated use – freezer-grade, dual-ovenable, ambient – isn’t just a marketing description. It reflects the conditions the material has actually been tested and is suitable for. Using packaging outside its tested parameters (for example, putting a non-oven-safe container in an oven) isn’t just a performance risk, it can also affect compliance.

We’re a Distributor – Here’s Why That’s Worth Knowing

We’re upfront that SystemPAK is a distributor, not a manufacturer. We import and supply food packaging rather than producing it ourselves. In practice, this means our role is to source from manufacturing partners who meet the certifications and standards above, and to make sure the right documentation – BRCGS certificates, technical specifications, compliance declarations – is available to our customers when they need it.

If you ever need supporting documentation for an audit or due diligence file, our team can point you to the relevant certificates and specs for the products you’ve ordered.

Common Customer Questions

Are all SystemPAK products food-grade?
Yes. Our range is manufactured to FSA standards and our products are BRCGS certified, meaning the manufacturing processes behind them have been independently audited for food safety and quality.

What’s the difference between BRCGS certification and food contact compliance?
BRCGS certifies the manufacturing site and process. Food contact compliance is about the specific material meeting UK food contact regulations for the food type and conditions it’s used in. A product can, and should, have both.

Can I get compliance documentation for my own audits?
Yes, get in touch with our sales team and we can point you to the relevant certificates and technical data for the products you’ve purchased.

Does freezer-grade or oven-safe packaging need extra testing?
Materials rated for extreme conditions (such as freezer-grade down to -40°C, or dual-ovenable trays) are tested under those specific conditions, since migration behaviour changes with temperature. Always check a product’s stated temperature range and intended use before using it outside that spec.

Is recyclable packaging automatically food-grade compliant?
Not necessarily – recyclability and food contact compliance are separate properties. A material can be widely recyclable and still need to meet food contact migration requirements separately for its intended use.

Who regulates food packaging compliance in the UK?
Primarily the Food Standards Agency (FSA), alongside local authority Environmental Health and Trading Standards teams, who can inspect food businesses’ packaging and documentation as part of routine checks.

The post Food Packaging Compliance: What You Need to Know appeared first on SystemPAK.

At SystemPAK, we supply a full range of freezer-grade, tamper-evident ice cream containers to food producers across the UK, with stock held domestically and next day delivery available on orders placed before midday.

What Makes Tamper-Evident Packaging Worth the Investment?

A tamper-evident tab gives anyone handling your product – from your wholesale buyer to the end consumer – immediate, visible confirmation that the container has not been opened since it left your facility. That single physical signal does a lot of quiet work for your brand.

From the buyer’s perspective, it reduces liability and simplifies inbound quality checks. From the consumer’s perspective, it builds purchase confidence at the point of sale, particularly important in competitive chilled and frozen aisles where shoppers are making fast decisions. And from your operational standpoint, the lid is held firmly closed throughout transit, dramatically reducing the risk of leaks, spills, and spoilage across your cold chain.

The UK Food Standards Agency expects food businesses to maintain clear chain-of-custody controls. Tamper-evident packaging is one of the most practical, cost-effective ways to demonstrate that standard without adding complexity to your production line.

Freezer-Grade Construction: Why Specification Matters

Not all plastic performs the same below zero. Standard injection-moulded tubs can become brittle at sustained sub-zero temperatures, leading to cracked lids, lid separation, and freezer burn on product that was perfectly sealed when it left your site.

Our freezer-grade ice cream containers – including the white rectangular Napoli range – are manufactured to maintain their structural integrity through prolonged cold storage. The lids seat consistently, the tabs break cleanly, and the tubs stack reliably in both chest freezers and upright display cabinets. Consistent performance across your storage and display environment protects both product quality and shelf presentation. It is also worth noting that many of our standard tamper-evident containers can be supplied in a freezer-grade material – please be aware that minimum order quantities (MOQs) may apply. Contact our sales team to discuss your requirements.

Sizes to Match Every Operation

Whether you are producing individual dessert portions or filling 5kg catering tubs for gelaterias and hospitality buyers, maintaining a coherent packaging format across your range helps reinforce brand identity and simplifies logistics. Our ice cream container range currently includes:

• 170ml Round R-Pet Pots – individual portion size, ideal for single-serve retail and dessert counters
• 280ml, 480ml & 500ml White Rectangular Freezer-Grade Tubs – mid-range retail formats suitable for take-home and deli counter use
• 520ml Round White Tamper-Evident Containers – a versatile round format for boutique producers
• 750ml & 1000ml White Freezer-Grade Rectangular Tubs – strong mid-size options for premium branded retail
• 1200ml Square Tamper-Evident Containers – well suited to gifting, catering packs, and bulk retail
• 1750ml Round Tamper-Evident Containers with Handles – easy-carry format for larger portions and catering supply
• 2500ml & 5000ml Napoli White Ice Cream Containers – the standard commercial Napoli format for gelaterias, display cabinets, and wholesale distribution

All sizes are available in combi-box quantities for smaller operations, with bulk pallet pricing available for larger production volumes.

Additional Value: Recyclability and Reusability

All SystemPAK containers are 100% recyclable. Beyond end-of-life recyclability, the microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe construction of our food-specific containers gives consumers a genuinely reusable tub once the product is finished. A premium ice cream brand printed with IML (In Mould Labelling) continues to live in a customer’s kitchen long after purchase – a low-cost extension of your brand presence in the home.

If you want to maximise that shelf presence, our Print-Your-PAK service includes IML, printed self-adhesive labels, and bespoke cardboard sleeves, all compatible with our ice cream container range.

Sourcing with Confidence: UK Stock and Fast Despatch

SystemPAK holds all stock in the UK with next day delivery available on standard lines. Orders placed before 12pm Monday to Thursday are despatched the same day. Free samples are available across the range – just cover the postage – so you can check lid fit, tab integrity, and freezer performance before committing to a production run.

For larger volumes or bespoke requirements, our sales team can discuss pallet pricing, account terms, and custom solutions.

Ready to upgrade your frozen dessert packaging? Claim your free sample – or browse the full ice cream container range to find the right fit for your production line.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are SystemPAK ice cream containers suitable for display freezer cabinets? Yes. Our freezer-grade range, including the Napoli white tubs, is designed to withstand the sustained sub-zero temperatures of both chest freezers and upright display cabinets without warping or cracking.

What is the difference between a standard tamper-evident container and a freezer-grade one? Standard tamper-evident containers are manufactured for ambient or chilled use. Freezer-grade containers use a formulation that remains flexible and structurally sound at temperatures down to around -40°C, making them the correct choice for frozen products stored for extended periods.

Can I get my branding printed on the containers? Yes. SystemPAK offers In Mould Labelling (IML), printed self-adhesive labels, and bespoke cardboard sleeves through the Print-Your-PAK service, compatible with containers across the ice cream range.

What sizes are available for wholesale and catering supply? The 2500ml Half Napoli and 5000ml Full Napoli white containers are the standard format for gelaterias, catering buyers, and display cabinet use. Both are available in bulk pallet quantities.

How quickly can SystemPAK deliver? All standard lines are UK-stocked. Orders placed before 12pm Monday to Thursday are despatched for next day delivery. Saturday delivery is also available, location-dependent.

The post Wholesale Ice Cream Containers UK | Tamper-Evident & Freezer-Grade  appeared first on SystemPAK.

Walk into any supermarket chilled aisle and you will notice that no two products sit in the same style container. Hummus comes in a wide, shallow pot. Smoked salmon lies flat under a tight film seal. Clotted cream fills a squat white tub with a tamper-evident tab. None of that is accidental.

The right container for a food product is determined by a combination of factors: temperature requirements, the need for food safety guarantees, shelf presentation, portion size, distribution method, and the expectations of your buyer. Choosing a generic, one-size container to cut costs often creates problems elsewhere – contamination risk, poor shelf appeal, or a format your wholesale buyers will push back on.

At SystemPAK, we supply over 130 food-specific containers organised by product type, with UK stock and next day delivery. This guide walks through the most commercially significant food categories and what to look for when choosing the right packaging for each.

The Core Question: Tamper Evident or Top Seal?

Before getting into individual food types, it helps to understand the two primary food specific container systems across the SystemPAK range.

Tamper-evident containers use a physical tab or band that must be broken to open the lid. Once broken, it cannot be resealed invisibly. These are best suited to products sold through retail or wholesale where consumer confidence at point of sale matters, and where the lid needs to remain firmly closed during cold chain transit.

Top seal containers use a heat-sealed lidding film applied by a sealing machine. The hermetic seal creates an airtight, leak-proof closure that is particularly effective for wet or high-moisture products, fresh protein, or anything where oxygen exclusion extends shelf life. The DeliPAK, MeatPAK, OvenPAK, and DairyPAK ranges all operate on this principle.

Many food producers use both systems across different product lines – a charcuterie producer might top-seal sliced meats and use tamper-evident tubs for their accompanying condiments, for example. The format should follow the product’s requirements, not the other way around.

Deli, Antipasti & Prepared Foods

Deli counters and prepared food suppliers face a specific challenge: a wide variety of products with different textures, moisture levels, and portion sizes, all needing to look premium at point of sale.

For olives, antipasti, and oil-dressed products, a rectangular tamper-evident container with a clear or translucent body lets the product speak for itself. Rectangular formats also pack efficiently in transit crates and chiller cabinets. For sliced meats and charcuterie, a top-sealed tray using the DeliPAK range creates the airtight environment that preserves colour, texture, and shelf life without compression.

Portion sizes in the deli category typically run from 100ml–500ml for retail units, stepping up to larger formats for catering packs. Consistency across your portion range – same container family, same lid format – makes a significant difference to how your brand reads on-shelf.

Browse deli and antipasti containers →

Dairy: Yoghurt, Clotted Cream, Butter & Cheese

Dairy products span a wider temperature and format range than almost any other category, from ambient soft cheese to frozen butter, and the packaging needs to match precisely.

For yoghurt and clotted cream, a white tamper-evident pot in the 150ml–500ml range is the standard retail format. The tamper-evident tab provides the consumer assurance that matters in the dairy aisle, while the white body conveys cleanliness and brand neutrality – ideal as a canvas for Print-Your-PAK labelling or IML.

Soft cheeses and spreadable products benefit from the same format, with the addition of a tight lid seal to prevent moisture migration and odour transfer in mixed-product chillers. For harder cheeses sold in retail portions, a top seal tray under the DairyPAK range provides the modified atmosphere environment that extends usable life.

Butter containers require a format that is both grease-resistant and frost-proof if the product moves between chilled and ambient storage during distribution. The 150ml white rectangular container, freezer-safe to -42°C, is a well-suited option for artisan butter producers selling through farm shops and delis.

Browse dairy containers →

Ready Meals & Convenience Foods

This is the most specification-intensive category in the range. Ready meal containers have to survive the entire journey from production line to consumer microwave – sometimes passing through a freezer in between – without warping, leaking, or compromising the seal.

The OvenPAK range addresses the dual-oven requirement: containers that are both freezer-safe and ovenable, removing the need for consumers to transfer food before reheating. This is particularly relevant for premium ready meal producers who want to position their product as genuinely convenient, not just easily purchased.

For chilled ready meals not intended for oven reheating, the MenuPAK and GastroPAK ranges provide top-sealed solutions with consistent tray depths, making them easy to label, stack, and display. The GastroPAK range in particular suits gastro-pub and restaurant-grade prepared meals where presentation in the container at the table is part of the product experience.

Key considerations for this category: matching tray depth to portion weight (shallow trays for single portions, deeper formats for family sizes), and ensuring the lidding film specification is compatible with your sealing machine. SystemPAK supplies both manual and semi-automatic sealing machines, as well as the lidding film and dies, meaning the full system can be sourced from one supplier.

Browse ready meal containers →

Seafood, Smoked Fish & Sushi

Seafood packaging has two non-negotiables: the seal must be airtight, and the presentation must be clean and professional. Loose lids, condensation inside the container, or any sign of leakage destroys purchase intent faster than in almost any other category.

For whole or portioned fresh fish, the MeatPAK top-seal tray range provides the gas-flushed environment (modified atmosphere packaging) that preserves colour and delays oxidation. For smoked fish – salmon, mackerel, trout – a clear-lidded top-seal tray lets the product colour and texture be visible through the film, which is a significant retail sales driver.

Sushi requires a different approach: a low-profile, wide-base container that keeps rolls in position without compression, often with a clear lid for visibility. The presentation standard expected in the sushi category is high, so container quality and dimensional consistency across batches matter considerably.

Browse seafood containers →

Sauces, Dips, Hummus & Condiments

This category covers a huge range of viscosities –  from loose salad dressings through to thick nut butters – and the container choice needs to account for that. A container that works perfectly for hummus may not seal cleanly against an oil-based pesto.

For thick pastes and spreads (hummus, pâté, guacamole, soft cheese dips), a rectangular tamper-evident container in the 100ml–500ml range is the standard format. The flat base and consistent wall depth makes these easy to label and stack, and the rectangular footprint fits cleanly on shelf. The 100ml format suits side-order portions and food-to-go ranges; the 500ml format suits retail and catering.

For liquid sauces, dressings, and condiments, the CondiPAK top-seal pot provides an airtight, leak-proof solution that travels without risk in mixed-product deliveries. The 90ml round tamper-evident pot is also well-suited to single-serve condiment portions for at-home meal kits and catering supplies.

Browse dip and sauce containers →

Dry & Ambient Grocery: Cereals, Spices, Nuts & Baking Ingredients

Food-specific containers are not limited to chilled and frozen applications. A growing number of ambient food producers –  particularly in the artisan and speciality grocery sector – are moving away from bags and pouches towards rigid containers that offer better shelf presence, protection from moisture, and reusability.

For spices, salts, and dry botanicals, a small round tamper-evident pot in the 90ml–280ml range presents well in retail and on consumer worktops. For cereals, baking ingredients, and nuts, a larger rectangular or square format (750ml–1200ml) provides the volume needed while keeping the product visible and the brand legible on-shelf.

The tamper-evident mechanism matters here too: ambient products are just as subject to in-store interference as chilled lines, and buyers in the premium grocery channel increasingly expect the same food safety standards across the board.

Browse ambient food containers →

Frozen Desserts & Ice Cream

For ice cream and sorbet producers, the specific requirements around freezer-grade construction and tamper-evident sealing are covered in detail in our previous guide. In summary: standard tamper-evident containers are not rated for sustained sub-zero storage, and the difference in material specification between a standard tub and a freezer-grade one is significant enough to affect product quality over time.

The Napoli white ice cream container range – available in 2500ml and 5000ml – is the standard commercial format used across UK gelaterias and ice cream parlours for display cabinet and wholesale distribution. Smaller retail formats from 280ml upwards are available for branded consumer packaging.

Read our full guide to ice cream containers → | Browse ice cream containers →

Branding Across Your Product Range

Whatever food category you operate in, packaging consistency across your product range has a direct impact on shelf recognition and buyer confidence. SystemPAK’s Print-Your-PAK service covers three routes to branded packaging:

In Mould Labelling (IML) embeds the label into the container during manufacture, producing a permanent, high-resolution graphic finish that cannot peel, scratch, or be removed. It is the premium option for products in competitive retail environments.

Printed self-adhesive labels offer a more flexible, lower-minimum route to branded packaging, suitable for smaller producers or frequently-updated ranges.

Bespoke cardboard sleeves can be applied over standard white or clear containers to add branded presentation without committing to printed stock.

Explore Print-Your-PAK →

Sustainable Packaging Options

SystemPAK’s entire container range is 100% recyclable. For producers with specific sustainability commitments, the FreshPAK PLA range offers a compostable alternative based on cardboard trays with a PLA lining – dual ovenable, freezer-safe, and suited to chilled food applications where buyers or retailers require certified compostable packaging.

Explore sustainable packaging options →

Not Sure Which Container Is Right for Your Product?

SystemPAK offers free samples across the range – you just cover postage. If you are developing a new product line or switching supplier, testing lid fit, seal integrity, and container performance with your actual product is the most reliable way to make the right choice before committing to production volumes.

Claim your free sample → | Browse the full food-specific range →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a food-specific container and a standard container? Food-specific containers are selected or designed with a particular product type in mind – accounting for moisture levels, temperature requirements, portion size, and how the product will be displayed and sold. A standard container may technically hold the product safely, but a food-specific format is optimised for the category.

Does SystemPAK supply containers for both retail and foodservice/catering formats? Yes. Most container families are available in combi-box quantities for smaller retail producers and in bulk pallet formats for larger catering and foodservice operations. Sizes typically scale from single-serve portions through to bulk catering volumes.

Can I use the same container across chilled and frozen products? Not always. Standard tamper-evident and top-seal containers are rated for chilled use. Products intended for prolonged frozen storage require a freezer-grade specification – SystemPAK stocks dedicated freezer-grade ranges for this purpose.

What sealing machines are compatible with SystemPAK top-seal trays? SystemPAK supplies both manual and semi-automatic sealing machines, as well as the lidding film and die tooling required, all matched to the tray ranges in the catalogue. This means the full production system can be sourced and calibrated from one supplier.

How do I get samples to test fit and seal performance? Free samples are available across the range. Fill in the sample request form and cover the postage cost – the containers themselves are supplied at no charge.

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