Foggy vs Clear: How to Choose Deli Containers (Toughness vs Clarity)
The container on the left looks foggy; the one on the right is clear. The difference isn’t “clean vs dirty”—it’s the material formulation and performance trade-off:
- Foggy (impact-modified PP): elastomer/impact modifiers are added to improve impact resistance and low-temperature toughness, which naturally makes the wall look hazy.
- Clear (high-clarity PP): uses clarifying agents/high-clarity grades to maximize transparency and display, but extreme cold/rough handling may reduce durability versus foggy types.
Takeaway: Foggy = stronger & better in the cold; Clear = better visibility & merchandising. Choose based on your use case.
Why do they look foggy or clear?
Foggy containers scatter light because of modifier domains and refractive differences—great for drop resistance and cold chain. Clear containers use clarifying agents and controlled crystallization so light passes more directly—great for display and photography.
When to choose each?
Pick Foggy if you need:
- Cold storage / cold chain (≈ −10°C to 0°C) and low-temperature handling
- Delivery / busy kitchens where stacking and drops happen
- Central kitchen / pallet shipping with repeated loading
- Soups / oily, heavy dishes—better stress-crack resistance
Pick Clear if you need:
- Front-of-house retail / cooler display (see-through sells)
- Prepared foods / desserts / nuts with attractive layers
- Brand visuals & photography for menus and social media
Performance comparison (general guideline)
| Metric | Foggy (impact-modified) | Clear (high-clarity) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Hazy / lower transparency | High transparency, great for display |
| Drop / impact resistance | Stronger (esp. in the cold) | Moderate; more sensitive in extreme cold |
| Low-temperature toughness | Better for cold chain | Average |
| Microwave (PP) | OK under labeled conditions* | OK under labeled conditions* |
| Display / photography | Good | Best |
*Microwave only if labeled as microwave-safe; heat in short intervals, vent lid, avoid dry-heating oils/sugars.
Practical selection (3 steps)
- Define usage: cold/cold-chain vs ambient vs microwave? Liquids? Delivery intensity?
- Set priority: toughness & low-temp → choose Foggy; merchandising & visibility → choose Clear.
-
Test with samples:
- Cold drop: fill 70%, chill 2h, drop from 1 m × 3
- Microwave: 2/3 water, follow label conditions, check deformation
- Stack & leak: fill + lid, stack 3 layers, check deformation/leaks
FAQ
Does “foggy” look dirty to customers?
No. Foggy is an optical effect from the formulation, not cleanliness. It usually means better impact and low-temp toughness—great for delivery and cold chain.
Are both microwave-safe?
If the item is PP and labeled microwave-safe, both types are fine under labeled conditions (short intervals, vented lid, no dry-heating).
Are they recyclable?
Most are marked #5 PP. Recyclability depends on local programs and facilities.
Is there a big price difference?
It depends on formulation, wall thickness, lid style, and volume. Neither is inherently more expensive—check the exact spec.
Next steps
Not sure which one fits your menu and process? Test both with your real dishes—we’ll send free samples and advise.
Order Free Samples Request a Quote Shop Deli Containers
Compliance: materials comply with FDA 21 CFR food-contact requirements. Spec sheets / material statements / COC available upon request.