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Ice cream containers with lids come in many types. Each type has unique features. They suit different needs. Here are some common types:
Plastic tubs:
Plastic tubs are a popular choice for ice cream packaging. They are lightweight and durable. They offer good protection for the ice cream inside. The tubs often have tight-fitting lids. These help prevent freezer burn and keep the ice cream fresh. Tubs come in many sizes. They are suitable for individual servings or larger family-sized portions. They are usually made from polypropylene (PP) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). These materials are recyclable. This makes plastic tubs an eco-friendly option for ice cream packaging.
Plastic cups:
Plastic cups are another common packaging option for ice cream. They are popular for single servings or small portions. Like plastic tubs, cups are lightweight and shatter-resistant. They are ideal for on-the-go consumption. They come with various lids, including peel-off seals and snap-on tops, to maintain product freshness and prevent contamination. Plastic cups are often used for soft serve ice cream and gelato. They are convenient and easy to carry. They are usually made from recyclable materials like polypropylene or polystyrene (PS).
Polyethylene containers:
Polyethylene containers are also popular for packaging ice cream. These containers are made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or other polyethylene materials. They are known for their flexibility and impact resistance. Polyethylene containers are often used for larger tubs or buckets. They offer a reliable and economical choice for packaging ice cream. These containers are also recyclable, contributing to sustainability efforts.
Sustainably sourced containers:
With the rise in environmental awareness, ice cream manufacturers have been adopting sustainably sourced containers. These containers are designed with eco-friendliness in mind. They are made from materials like plant-based bioplastics or recycled paperboard. These materials are intended to reduce the environmental impact of ice cream packaging. They often feature innovative designs. They aim to minimize the use of plastic and promote sustainability. These containers are suitable for brands that prioritize environmental responsibility and want to appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
The design of Ice cream containers has changed over the years. They have become more eco-friendly, user-friendly, and aesthetically pleasing. Some of the common design aspects of ice cream plastic containers are as follows:
Shape and Structure:
Most ice cream tub containers have cylindrical shapes to make scooping easy and minimize ice cream wastage. Some ice cream cups may have square or rectangular shapes for stacking and space efficiency. The containers have a base that tapers towards the neck to facilitate the lid's fitting and prevent the container from toppling over.
Materials Used:
Ice cream plastic containers with lids, especially the ones on Alibaba, are made from food-grade polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PET) materials. These are durable, shatterproof, and freeze-resistant. They can also withstand low temperatures without becoming brittle. Additionally, these materials are recyclable, promoting environmental sustainability, which is becoming a crucial aspect of product design.
Lid Design:
Ice cream containers with lids have different lid designs, such as screw-on and snap-on. Resealable lids and screw-on lids are popular since they allow consumers to store leftover ice cream easily. Some lids have embossed branding to enhance the visual appeal and make the product easily identifiable in the freezer aisle.
Color and Graphics:
The color of ice cream container cups is usually white or off-white. However, they may also have bold colors such as red, yellow, and blue to reflect the flavor and brand identity. The graphics printed on the tub often include the brand name, flavor description, nutritional information, and images of the product. High-quality printing techniques are used to ensure clarity and vibrant colors. The design may also include a transparent window portion to show the ice cream's texture and color.
Storage and Transportation:
Ice cream plastic containers are designed to facilitate storage and transportation. They are stackable, which helps save space in retail stores and the supply chain. The materials used in making them are lightweight, which reduces the overall shipping costs.
Eco-Friendly Designs:
Eco-conscious brands are opting for biodegradable plastics produced from renewable resources like cornstarch and other recycled materials. The design aspect focuses on reducing the carbon footprint and protecting the environment. Ice cream container manufacturers on Alibaba are also producing containers that are easy to disassemble for recycling purposes. Some designs include messages or symbols to encourage consumers to recycle the packaging.
Ice cream containers are vital in many industries and settings. These are the key scenarios where one can find them.
Retail Stores
Grocery stores and convenience shops sell ice cream in various flavors. They use plastic ice cream tubs with lids to keep the product fresh and attract customers. The tubs are designed for freezer storage and have appealing graphics for branding.
Food Trucks and Carts
Food trucks selling ice cream or frozen desserts to customers on the street use similar containers. They are easy to carry, serve from, and seal to keep the product in a moving vehicle.
Cafes and Restaurants
Establishments offer ice creams, either made in-house or commercially purchased. Plastic containers store the ice creams in the kitchen or display them at the counter. Some may have special tubs to hold and serve ice cream to customers at their tables.
Events and Catering
People serving ice cream at weddings, parties, or corporate events often use plastic containers. They are convenient for storing, transporting, and serving ice cream to guests. Some may even provide portable containers for guests to use.
Retail Ice Cream Shops
Shops focused solely on selling ice cream use various plastic containers. They offer scooped ice cream and pre-packaged pints or quarts for customers to take home. The containers are designed for repeated opening and sealing while maintaining product quality.
Grocery Stores
Grocery stores stock tubs containing ice cream flavors and frozen desserts for customers. These containers are placed in freezers and are designed for convenience and mass production.
Supermarkets
In supermarkets, ice cream containers are found in dedicated frozen food sections. They include a range of ice creams from different brands, each in easily recognizable tubs.
Ice Cream Parlors
Ice cream parlors use containers to hold ice cream for sale. They may offer it in various sizes, from small cups to large tubs, for customers to dine in or take away.
To select the perfect ice cream tubs, there are some factors that need to be considered. They will help to ensure that the business is compliant with regulations and meets customers' needs and preferences.
Material selection
Ice cream packaging needs to be made from materials that are safe for storing food. They should also be able to withstand very low temperatures without becoming brittle or warped. The most commonly used materials for ice cream containers include polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polyethylene (PE). All three are widely accepted by recyclers and have a relatively low impact on the environment when compared to other types of plastics. Another popular choice among manufacturers who want to show that they care about sustainability is PLA (polylactic acid). It is a biodegradable material made from renewable resources like corn starch.
Container types
There is a wide variety of ice cream container types to choose from, including tubs, cups, and pails. Tubs are great for hard ice creams and gelato, while cups work best for soft serve or street vendor ice creams. Pails are ideal for bulk ice cream, allowing customers to easily scoop out what they need.
Size and capacity
When choosing ice cream plastic containers with lids, think about the target market and their preferences. For example, if selling higher-quality ice creams meant for small batches, opt for smaller sizes like pints or half-pints. However, if targeting families or parties, larger sizes such as quart or gallon should be considered instead.
Lid and seal options
A good seal is necessary for ice cream to stay fresh and avoid freezer burn. Select containers with tamper-evident seals to guarantee product safety and freshness. Choose flip-top lids for convenience and easy access or screw-top lids for a secure, mess-free experience.
Sustainability
With the rising demand for eco-friendly packaging, businesses must consider the sustainability aspect of their containers. Some ice cream container manufacturers offer recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable options. They are better for the environment and can attract customers who prioritize eco-conscious products.
Cost and budget
Lastly, the cost and budget for the ice cream tub must be considered. While it's important not to overspend, never sacrifice quality just to save a few extra bucks. Remember that customers may value higher-quality materials, which could lead to increased sales and profits in the long run.
Q1: What are the benefits of ice cream containers?
A1: Ice cream container with lids are durable, affordable, and convenient. They provide an easy-to-hold option while ensuring the ice cream remains protected. Additionally, they can be easily recycled.
Q2: What is the purpose of the lid on ice cream containers?
A2: The lid seals the container, keeping the ice cream protected from external contaminants and preventing freezer burn.
Q3: Can ice cream containers be reused?
A3: Yes, many ice cream containers can be reused for various purposes, such as storing homemade ice cream or other foods, crafts, and organizing items. However, it's essential to clean and sanitize them properly before reuse, especially if repurposing them for food storage.
Q4: What should be considered when choosing ice cream plastic containers?
A4: When choosing ice cream containers, factors like material, size, and shape should be considered. For instance, the container should be durable enough to withstand transportation and have a shape that allows for easy scooping. Also, it should be made of a material that can be recycled.
Q5: Are ice cream containers biodegradable?
A5: Most ice cream containers are made from plastic, which is not biodegradable. However, some manufacturers are moving towards biodegradable and compostable packaging to reduce environmental impact.