The paper examines the environmental impacts of different types of takeaway food containers – aluminium, polypropylene, and extruded polystyrene – by conducting a life cycle assessment to identify the most sustainable options. The study finds that single-use polypropylene containers have the highest impact on the environment, including global warming potential, while aluminium containers are second worst, particularly concerning ozone depletion and human toxicity. Extruded polystyrene containers have the lowest environmental impact due to lower material and energy requirements but are currently not recycled. The paper suggests that recycling policies in line with the European Union’s 2025 waste packaging goals could significantly reduce these impacts, cutting CO2 emissions equivalent to those of 55,000 vehicles annually. The findings are relevant for packaging manufacturers, food outlets, policymakers, and consumers.