Foil Container Sizes Explained: No.2, No.6A, No.6 and 9x9 Trays
The DiscountTillRolls.ie TeamFoil container sizes are named by number and measured in inches. The No.2 (4x5 inch, about 450ml) is the small side-dish tray, the No.6A (4x8 inch, about 660ml) is a single main portion, the No.6 (6x9 inch) is a large main or sharing size, and the 9x9 inch (about 1,600ml) is the family or catering tray. Lids are sold to match each size, and a lid only fits the container it was made for.
If you run a takeaway, the No.2 and No.6A will do most of the work. Here is what each size is for, and what each one costs per portion.
In this guide
- What are the standard foil container sizes?
- Which size should I use for which dish?
- Do foil containers come with lids?
- Can foil containers go in the oven or microwave?
- Are foil containers recyclable?
- FAQ
What are the standard foil container sizes?
| Container | Size | Holds (approx.) | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| No.2 | 4x5" (102x127mm) | 450ml | Curry chips, sauces, rice, sides |
| No.6A | 4x8" (102x203mm) | 660ml | Single main portion, curry and rice |
| 6x6 | 6x6" (152x152mm) | Square portion tray | Desserts, bakes, square portions |
| No.6 | 6x9" (152x229mm) | Large main tray | Large mains, meals for two, meal prep |
| 9x9 | 9x9" (229x229mm) | 1,600ml | Family lasagne, catering trays, traybakes |
The numbering is a trade convention rather than a strict standard, so always check the measurements as well as the number when you compare suppliers.
4x5 inch containers with matching lids. About 11 cent a set.
Which foil container size should I use for which dish?
- Chipper or Indian takeaway: No.2 for sauces, sides and curry chips, No.6A for main curries and rice.
- Chinese takeaway: No.2 and No.6A as above. Many also use plastic or kraft containers for some dishes.
- Deli and meal prep: No.6A for single portions, No.6 for larger meals that go straight in the oven at home.
- Catering and events: 9x9 trays for lasagne, bakes and buffet dishes.
- Bakery: 6x6 squares for traybakes and puddings.
A useful habit: portion into the same container every time. Customers notice when a "large" looks different from last week, and a consistent container keeps your food cost steady too.
Do foil containers come with lids?
Some packs include lids and some do not, so read the listing. Buying containers and lids together as a set is simplest. If you buy them separately, make sure the lid is for exactly the same container size, because the rim is crimped over the lid to seal it.
Most foil container lids are card with a foil lining. You can write the dish or table number on the card side with a marker, which saves a lot of lid-lifting on a busy night.
How much do foil containers cost?
| Product | Case | Price ex VAT | Per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| No.2 containers only | 1,000 | €49.99 | 5c |
| No.2 with lids | 500 sets | €55.99 | 11.2c |
| No.6A with lids | 500 sets | €88.99 | 17.8c |
| 6x6 containers | 500 | €97.99 | 19.6c |
| No.6 with lids | 500 sets | €155.40 | 31.1c |
| 9x9 with lids | 250 sets | €103.60 | 41.4c |
Prices correct at time of writing. The live price on each product page is the one that applies.
4x8 inch trays for main portions of curry, rice and meal prep.
Can foil containers go in the oven or microwave?
Oven: yes. Foil containers are made for conventional ovens, which is why they are popular for meal prep and ready meals. Take the card lid off first, and cover with foil instead if you need to.
Microwave: generally no. Metal and microwaves do not mix well, and most microwave instructions say to avoid it. If your customers will reheat in a microwave, tell them to decant the food, or use microwavable containers instead.
Are foil containers recyclable?
Aluminium is one of the most recyclable packaging materials there is, but only when it is reasonably clean. Scrape out food, give it a quick rinse, and it can usually go in the recycling bin. Heavily soiled trays and the card lids are a different story, so check what your waste collector accepts.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a No.2 foil container?
A No.2 foil container is 4x5 inches (about 102x127mm) and holds around 450ml.
What size is a No.6A foil container?
A No.6A is 4x8 inches (about 102x203mm) and holds around 660ml, a typical single main portion.
What is the most popular foil container for takeaways?
The No.2 for sides and sauces, and the No.6A for main dishes. Most takeaways stock both.
Can you put foil containers in the oven?
Yes, foil containers are oven safe. Remove the card lid first.
Can you microwave foil containers?
It is generally not recommended. Decant the food into a microwave-safe dish.
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