Top 10 Popular Aluminum Foil Container Sizes South Africa

The South African food service and takeaway industry relies heavily on aluminum foil containers in standardized sizes that suit local portion habits, packaging systems, and distribution channels. For importers, distributors, and catering suppliers, understanding which sizes are most commonly used in this market is essential for building the right product mix and ensuring smooth supply.

From compact single-meal trays to large catering pans, several aluminum foil container formats have become especially popular across restaurants, bakeries, supermarkets, and food delivery businesses in South Africa.
 

Commonly Used Rectangular Foil Containers

Rectangular aluminum foil containers remain the most widely used format for takeaway meals and hot food packaging. 

RE130(260ml) – Compact Single-Meal Foil Container

RE130 is a small rectangular container designed for light meals, side dishes, and bakery portions. Its compact footprint makes it easy to stack and transport, which is important for takeaway counters and deli-style food service.

RE150(450ml) – Standard Takeaway Meal Container

RE150 is one of the most frequently used meal containers in the market. It offers a practical balance between capacity and portability, making it ideal for everyday takeaway meals such as rice with toppings, noodles, or mixed dishes.

RE210(800ml) – Medium Rectangular Foil Tray

RE210 is used for slightly larger portions or meals with multiple components. Its stronger structure supports hot foods and makes it suitable for both takeaway and catering supply.

RE220(260ml) – Popular Mid-Size Food Tray

RE220 is a versatile size widely applied in quick-service restaurants and ready-meal operations. It fits well with common lid systems and secondary packaging used by distributors.

RE255(1750ml) – Large Rectangular Catering Tray

RE255 is typically used for larger meal portions and combination platters. It is common in catering services, group meal orders, and food supply for events where higher capacity is required.

RE320D(3500ml) – Deep Rectangular Foil Container

RE320D features extra depth, making it suitable for saucy foods, layered dishes, and meals with higher liquid content. This design helps reduce the risk of spillage during delivery and transport.
 

Square Foil Containers for Retail and Takeaway

Square aluminum foil containers are increasingly popular in retail-ready meals and bakery packaging due to their clean appearance and efficient use of carton space.

SQ160(450ml) – Small Square Foil Container

SQ160 is widely used for desserts, baked dishes, and compact ready meals. Its square shape allows better space utilization in both outer cartons and retail displays.

SQ205(1350ml) – Medium Square Aluminum Foil Tray

SQ205 suits standard takeaway meals and shared side dishes. It offers good stacking stability and is commonly used in food retail environments where presentation and uniformity matter.

SQ230(1650ml) – Large Square Foil Food Container

SQ230 is designed for larger portions and catering use. It is often selected for family-size meals and food service operations requiring higher filling volume and structural strength.
 

Round Foil Pans for Bakery and Roasting

In addition to rectangular and square trays, round aluminum foil pans are a key segment in the South African market, especially in bakery and home-style food businesses.

7–9 Inch Round Foil Pans

Round pans in the 7 to 9 inch range are commonly used for cakes, pies, quiches, and baked dishes. They provide even heat distribution in ovens and are convenient as disposable bake-and-serve packaging. These sizes are also popular among small bakeries and food vendors producing ready-to-sell baked products.
 

Why Size Standardization Matters in the South African Market

In South Africa’s food packaging supply chain, consistent container sizes are critical. Restaurants, catering services, and retailers often design their portioning, lid systems, and outer carton packing based on specific tray dimensions. Even small size differences can affect stacking, sealing performance, and portion control.

For distributors and importers, supplying the right size range means not only meeting end-user expectations but also reducing operational issues related to packaging compatibility.
 

Supply Considerations for Importers and Distributors

When selecting aluminum foil containers for the South African market, professional buyers typically focus on:

A complete range of popular rectangular, square, and round sizes

Stable thickness options to suit both light bakery items and heavier hot meals

Compatibility with board lids or foil lids commonly used in takeaway packaging

Reliable bulk production capacity for continuous wholesale supply

Working with a manufacturer that understands these size preferences helps distributors build a more competitive and market-oriented product portfolio.
 

Conclusion

The South African market shows strong and consistent demand for aluminum foil containers in practical, standardized sizes. Models such as RE150, RE220, SQ205, RE255, and 7–9 inch round pans reflect the real needs of takeaway operators, caterers, and bakeries.

By focusing on these widely used formats, importers and wholesalers can better align their product offerings with local food service requirements and ensure long-term, stable demand in the market. For buyers looking to expand or optimize their aluminum foil container range for South Africa, understanding these popular sizes is the first step toward more efficient and successful sourcing.