50 Types of Food Packaging Products: A Complete List for Food Businesses in India

If you run a food business in India -- whether it is a small street food stall in Kota, a multi-outlet restaurant chain in Jaipur, or a cloud kitchen serving customers through Swiggy and Zomato -- you depend on packaging every single day. Yet most business owners purchase only a handful of familiar items and miss out on products that could improve presentation, reduce waste, or save money at scale.

This guide catalogues 50 distinct types of food packaging products that are commonly available in the Indian wholesale market. For each product, we cover what it is, what food types it suits best, and what you should look for when buying in bulk. Use this as a reference whenever you are evaluating your packaging inventory or exploring new options.

Cups and Glasses (1-8)

1. Paper Cups (Hot Beverages)

Single-wall or double-wall paper cups with a food-grade PE or PLA inner lining. These are the backbone of tea and coffee service across India. Available in sizes from 65ml (cutting chai) to 350ml (large coffee). Double-wall versions provide better heat insulation and eliminate the need for separate sleeves. When buying wholesale, check for BIS certification and consistent rim curl quality -- poorly formed rims cause leaks and customer complaints. For more detail, read our paper cup sizing guide.

2. Paper Cups (Cold Beverages)

Cold cups feature a wax or PLA coating on both interior and exterior surfaces to handle condensation without softening. Sizes range from 200ml to 500ml. These are essential for juice bars, lassi shops, and restaurants serving cold drinks. Look for cups that maintain structural integrity for at least 45 minutes with chilled liquids, as many cheaper variants collapse within 20 minutes.

3. PET Glasses

Clear, rigid plastic glasses made from polyethylene terephthalate. They provide glass-like transparency for beverages where visual appeal matters -- think layered falooda, cold coffee, or mango lassi. Available from 180ml to 500ml. Since PET is recyclable, it remains permitted under current regulations, though many businesses are transitioning away for environmental reasons.

4. PP Glasses

Polypropylene glasses are thicker and more rigid than PET variants. They handle moderately hot liquids (up to 80 degrees Celsius) and are the preferred choice for buttermilk, chaas, and warm soups served in cups. PP is microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe, making it the most durable disposable cup option available.

5. Foam Cups

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) cups offer excellent thermal insulation at low cost. However, they are now banned in most Indian states under the 2022 single-use plastic rules. If you are still using foam cups, switch immediately to double-wall paper cups or bagasse cups to stay compliant. The fine for stocking banned items can reach Rs 1 lakh.

6. Bagasse Cups

Made from sugarcane fibre, these cups are compostable and handle hot beverages well. They have a slightly textured, natural appearance that appeals to eco-conscious consumers. Priced higher than standard paper cups, bagasse cups make sense for businesses positioning themselves as environmentally responsible. They are available in 150ml to 350ml sizes.

7. Ripple Wall Cups

These paper cups have an outer corrugated layer that provides excellent insulation without a separate sleeve. They look premium, feel comfortable to hold, and are ideal for cafes and specialty coffee shops. The ripple design is available in kraft brown or can be custom printed. Wholesale prices run about 30-40% higher than standard single-wall cups.

8. Dome Lid Cups

Transparent dome lids paired with flat-bottom cups create the standard setup for cold beverages like iced tea, cold coffee, and smoothies. The dome accommodates whipped cream or garnish toppings. Available in PP or PET, with sip-hole or straw-slot variants. Always match lid diameter precisely to cup size -- even a 1mm mismatch causes spills during delivery.

Plates and Trays (9-16)

9. Round Paper Plates

The most ubiquitous disposable plate in India. Available in 6-inch, 7-inch, 9-inch, and 12-inch diameters. Paper plates come in uncoated (for dry items like roti and pakora) and PE-coated (for oily or wet foods) variants. For restaurant use, always choose coated plates -- uncoated versions soak through within minutes with any gravy or chutney.

10. Compartment Plates

Divided plates with 2, 3, 4, or 5 sections that keep different food items separated. Indispensable for thali-style meals, catering events, and tiffin services. Bagasse compartment plates have largely replaced plastic ones across the market. The 5-compartment design suits a typical North Indian thali with dal, sabzi, rice, roti space, and a sweet. Check our thali compartment plates guide.

11. Oval Platters

Elongated plates used for serving kebabs, tandoori items, fish fry, and other items that do not fit well on round plates. Paper and bagasse versions are available in 10-inch and 12-inch lengths. Restaurants serving North Indian or Mughlai cuisine find these essential for presentation, especially during catering events and buffets.

12. Bagasse Plates

Sturdy, compostable plates made from sugarcane pulp. They handle oily and wet foods far better than standard paper plates, can be microwaved, and decompose within 60-90 days. For a detailed comparison with plastic, read our bagasse vs plastic plates analysis.

13. Areca Leaf Plates

Handcrafted from naturally fallen areca palm sheaths without chemicals or binders. Each plate has a unique grain pattern, giving a premium, artisanal look. They are heat resistant up to 150 degrees Celsius, rigid enough for heavy meals, and fully biodegradable. The cost is higher, so they are best suited for upscale catering, wedding buffets, and eco-premium restaurants.

14. Foam Plates

Thermocol plates were once the cheapest option for events and street food vendors. Like foam cups, they are now banned in most states. Transition to bagasse or heavy-duty paper plates as an alternative. Bagasse plates at wholesale rates now cost only 20-30% more than thermocol plates did before the ban.

15. Rectangular Trays

Flat or shallow-rimmed trays used for serving snacks, samosas, sandwiches, and fast food items. Available in paper, bagasse, and aluminium. Paper trays work for dry items, while aluminium trays suit items that need to stay warm. The 6x8-inch size is the most popular for quick-service restaurants.

16. Heavy-Duty Catering Plates

Reinforced disposable plates designed for large events where food is heavy and portions are generous. Made from thick bagasse or multi-layered paperboard, these plates resist bending even when loaded with a full biryani portion and sides. Essential for wedding catering, corporate events, and religious functions. Read more in our heavy-duty plates for catering guide.

Containers and Clamshells (17-26)

17. Round Food Containers (with lids)

The standard delivery container for dal, curry, and gravy-based dishes. Available in PP (microwaveable), PET, and bagasse with sizes from 200ml to 1000ml. For delivery businesses, the 500ml and 750ml sizes handle most single-portion orders. Always verify that lids create an airtight seal -- poor lid fit is the number one cause of delivery spillage.

18. Rectangular Containers

Better space utilisation in delivery bags compared to round containers. These work well for rice dishes, fried rice, noodles, and biryani. The flat, rectangular shape also stacks more efficiently in storage. Available in PP and aluminium foil, with sizes from 250ml to 1500ml.

19. Clamshell Containers

Hinged-lid containers that open and close without separate pieces. Ideal for burgers, sandwiches, momos, and quick snacks. Bagasse clamshells have become the industry standard after the foam ban. The single-piece design means fewer items to stock and faster packing during rush hours. See our clamshell container guide.

20. Compartment Containers

Containers with 2-4 built-in divisions, designed for combo meals and meal prep deliveries. A typical 3-compartment container holds rice in the large section, one curry in each smaller section. These are critical for cloud kitchens and tiffin services that deliver complete meals. Leak-proof seals between compartments are essential -- cheaper variants let gravies mix.

21. Soup Containers

Deep, round containers with tight-fitting lids, specifically designed for liquid-heavy items. Sizes range from 250ml (single serving) to 750ml (family serving). Paper soup containers with PE lining are the most common, but PP options offer better leak resistance for delivery. Our soup container guide covers selection in detail.

22. Aluminium Foil Containers

Versatile containers that go from oven to table to freezer. They provide excellent heat retention for biryani, kebabs, and baked items. Available in dozens of shapes and sizes with cardboard or aluminium lids. Aluminium is infinitely recyclable, making it an environmentally sound choice. The 450ml and 750ml sizes are the most popular for restaurant delivery.

23. Sauce Containers

Small cups (30ml to 100ml) with snap-on lids for chutney, ketchup, mayonnaise, and other accompaniments. Usually made from PP or PET. Restaurants that pre-portion their sauces into these containers see less waste and more consistent customer experience compared to sachets. Always order lids separately and verify compatibility.

24. Salad Containers

Clear PET containers that showcase the contents. Available in round and rectangular shapes with secure lids. Transparency matters for salads, fruit cups, and desserts where visual appeal drives purchase decisions. Look for containers with anti-fog properties if your items will be refrigerated, as condensation obscures the contents.

25. Biryani Containers

Tall, wide-mouth containers designed specifically for the volume and weight of biryani portions. Available in aluminium foil (most popular for biryani because it retains heat) and heavy-duty PP. The 750ml size fits a standard single portion, while 1250ml handles larger servings. Tight lid fit is critical because biryani generates steam that can pop loose lids. For detailed guidance, read our biryani packaging guide.

26. Ice Cream Cups

Paper cups with a moisture-resistant inner lining, available in 50ml to 200ml sizes. The lining prevents the cup from becoming soggy as ice cream melts. Some variants come with flat lids for scooped servings. For kulfi and softy ice cream vendors, the 80ml and 120ml sizes are the standard choices. Pair with wooden or paper spoons for a fully eco-friendly setup.

Wraps, Films, and Foils (27-32)

27. Aluminium Foil Rolls

Standard kitchen foil used for wrapping rotis, parathas, kebabs, and grilled items. Available in 9-metre to 72-metre rolls for household and commercial use, and in bulk rolls of 100+ metres for high-volume kitchens. Food-grade foil should be at least 11 microns thick for wrapping -- thinner foil tears during use and thicker foil (18-20 microns) is needed for container forming.

28. Cling Film

Transparent, stretchable PVC or LDPE film used to cover bowls, wrap sandwiches, and seal containers. Essential in commercial kitchens for food storage and prep. The self-clinging property creates an airtight seal without clips or ties. Buy commercial-grade rolls (300mm or 450mm width, 300m+ length) for kitchen use rather than household-size packs, which run out quickly and cost more per metre.

29. Butter Paper

Grease-resistant paper used for wrapping sandwiches, burgers, rolls, and frankies. It prevents food from sticking and absorbs excess oil. Also used as tray liners in bakeries and as interleaving sheets for stacked food items. Available in pre-cut sheets or rolls. Custom printing on butter paper is an affordable branding opportunity for quick-service restaurants.

30. Wax Paper

Paper coated with a thin layer of food-grade wax on both sides. Provides moisture resistance for wrapping sweets, cheese, and baked goods. Not microwave-safe (the wax melts), so it is strictly for cold or room-temperature items. Used extensively by mithai shops and bakeries for wrapping individual pieces before boxing.

31. Parchment Paper

Heat-resistant, non-stick paper used for baking and cooking. Withstands temperatures up to 220 degrees Celsius. Bakeries use it to line trays for cookies, cakes, and breads. Also works as a serving liner in baskets for fries, snacks, and appetisers. Available in rolls and pre-cut sheets. Silicone-coated parchment offers better non-stick properties than uncoated versions.

32. Food Wrapping Paper

Uncoated or lightly coated paper used by street food vendors and fast food outlets to wrap items like vada pav, kathi rolls, shawarma, and frankie. Kraft paper variants offer a natural, rustic look. Printed versions with your brand logo are an affordable marketing tool. Always ensure the paper is food-grade certified -- general-purpose paper may contain unsafe dyes or chemicals. Read our food wrapping paper guide.

Bags and Pouches (33-38)

33. Paper Carry Bags

Brown kraft or white paper bags with twisted or flat handles. These are the mandatory replacement for plastic carry bags in most states. Available in sizes from small (7x9 inches for single items) to large (14x18 inches for family orders). Bag strength is measured in GSM (grams per square metre) -- 120 GSM is the minimum for food delivery; 150-180 GSM handles heavier loads without tearing.

34. Non-Woven Bags

Reusable bags made from spun-bond polypropylene fabric. They are sturdier than paper bags and can be wiped clean. Many restaurants and catering businesses use custom-printed non-woven bags as a branding tool -- customers reuse them for shopping, giving your brand ongoing visibility. Available in various sizes with or without gussets.

35. Zip-Lock Pouches

Resealable plastic pouches used for packaging dry items like cookies, namkeen, dry fruits, and spice mixes. The zip mechanism allows customers to reseal after opening, maintaining freshness. Available in food-grade PE or laminated structures. For bakeries and snack businesses selling packaged items, branded zip-lock pouches project professionalism.

36. Vacuum Pouches

Multi-layer pouches designed for vacuum sealing, which extends shelf life by removing air. Used for marinated meats, paneer, pickles, and ready-to-cook meals. Available in nylon-PE and PA-PE constructions. The nylon layer provides puncture resistance. Vacuum pouches require a vacuum sealing machine, so factor in that equipment cost.

37. Stand-Up Pouches

Self-standing pouches with a flat bottom gusset, commonly used for packaged foods like chips, granola, trail mix, and ready-to-eat meals. Available with zip-lock tops, spouts, or tear notches. Multi-layer laminated constructions provide barrier properties against moisture, oxygen, and light. Custom printing options make these ideal for retail food brands.

38. Bread Bags

Transparent LDPE or BOPP bags specifically designed for bread and bakery products. Micro-perforations allow moisture to escape, preventing the bread from becoming soggy while maintaining freshness. Available with twist-tie or clip closures. Standard sizes accommodate sandwich loaves, pav buns, and burger buns. For bakeries, branded bread bags are a basic requirement for retail sales.

Cutlery and Accessories (39-44)

39. Wooden Cutlery

Disposable spoons, forks, and knives made from birchwood. These became the primary alternative after the plastic cutlery ban. Wooden cutlery is sturdy enough for most Indian foods, biodegradable, and available at wholesale prices that have dropped significantly since 2022. Buy in bulk packs of 1000 or more for the best rates. Read our cutlery buying guide.

40. Paper Straws

Multi-ply paper straws that replaced single-use plastic straws. The key quality indicator is how long they hold up in liquid -- good paper straws last 2-3 hours without becoming soggy; cheap ones disintegrate in under 30 minutes. Available in 6mm (standard) and 8mm (for thick shakes and smoothies) diameters. Wrapped individual straws are more hygienic for dine-in use.

41. Tissue Paper and Napkins

Single-ply and multi-ply tissues for table service, counter dispensers, and delivery packaging. Including a napkin with every delivery order is a small detail that significantly improves customer experience. Bulk rolls and interfolded napkins are the most cost-effective formats for commercial use. Printed napkins with your logo serve as an in-hand branding opportunity.

42. Toothpicks

Bamboo or birchwood toothpicks, available plain or individually wrapped. A small but expected accompaniment in restaurant meal packaging, especially for non-vegetarian orders. Individually wrapped toothpicks are more hygienic and project a more professional image. Buy in bulk packs of 5000-10000 to achieve the lowest per-unit cost.

43. Disposable Gloves

PE, vinyl, or nitrile gloves for food handling and preparation. FSSAI guidelines recommend glove use during food preparation and packing. PE gloves are the cheapest option for general food handling, while nitrile gloves offer better dexterity and chemical resistance for kitchen prep. Always match glove size to your staff for comfort and safety.

44. Rubber Bands and Clips

Used to secure bags, wraps, and packaging during delivery. Food-grade rubber bands should be odourless and non-reactive. Plastic clips with branding options are a step up in presentation. For high-volume operations, consider clip-sealing machines that are faster and more consistent than manual methods.

Specialty and Niche Products (45-50)

45. Pizza Boxes

Corrugated cardboard boxes in standard sizes (7-inch personal, 10-inch medium, 12-inch large, 14-inch family). The corrugated structure provides thermal insulation and structural protection. Ventilation holes prevent moisture buildup that makes the crust soggy. Custom-printed pizza boxes are the most visible branding asset for any pizza business. B-flute corrugation is the standard for pizza boxes.

46. Cake Boxes

Rigid cardboard boxes with windows for bakery products. Available in sizes from 250g (pastry box) to 5kg (large celebration cake). The window lets customers see the product without opening the box. Handles, inserts, and base boards are essential accessories. For a complete breakdown, see our cake box buying guide.

47. Sweet Boxes

Decorative boxes designed for mithai, dry fruits, and gifting. Indian sweet shops require a wide range of sizes and designs, especially during Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, and wedding season. Available in paperboard with metallic finishes, window cut-outs, and ribbon closures. Ordering 2-3 months before major festivals ensures availability and better pricing.

48. Egg Trays

Moulded pulp trays that hold eggs securely during transport and display. Standard sizes hold 6, 12, or 30 eggs. While primarily used by egg retailers and poultry farms, restaurants that serve breakfast and bakeries that use large quantities of eggs also buy these in bulk for safe storage.

49. Spice and Condiment Packaging

Small sachets and jars for packaging individual portions of salt, pepper, sugar, ketchup, chilli flakes, and oregano. Sachets are cheaper and more portable, while small jars or cups allow customers to use as much as they want. Delivery-focused restaurants typically include 2-3 sachets per order as part of their standard packaging set.

50. Cup Carriers and Trays

Moulded pulp or cardboard carriers that hold 2 or 4 cups securely for transport. Essential for cafes, tea stalls, and juice bars that handle multi-item orders. Pulp carriers are sturdier and biodegradable, while cardboard versions are cheaper and can be custom printed. For delivery services, these prevent spills and maintain a professional presentation.

How to Decide What Your Business Needs

Having this list in front of you is useful, but the real question is which products to prioritise for your specific business. Here is a practical approach:

Start with your menu. List every item you serve and map each one to the container, wrap, or box it needs. A biryani restaurant needs different products than a juice bar.

Consider your service model. Dine-in operations need plates, cutlery, and napkins. Delivery businesses need leak-proof containers, sturdy bags, and tamper-evident seals. Catering requires heavy-duty, high-volume products. Most businesses operate across multiple models, so build your packaging kit accordingly.

Check regulatory compliance. Verify that every product you source meets current state and central regulations. Products that were legal two years ago may be banned today. Your supplier should provide compliance documentation.

Buy in bulk, test in small batches. Order samples before committing to large wholesale quantities. Test with your actual food items under real conditions -- pack a container with your hottest curry and see if it holds up after a 30-minute delivery ride. Once satisfied, buy in wholesale quantities for the best pricing.

Build a supplier relationship. Working with a single, reliable wholesale supplier who carries a broad range of products simplifies ordering, ensures consistent quality, and gives you leverage for better pricing. Success Marketing has supplied food packaging to businesses across Rajasthan since 1991, and our catalogue covers every product category on this list.