Henry — Head of Marketing · Reviewed by Austin, Product Manager
May 20, 2026 · 5 min read · Updated July 9, 2026
The short answer: 90mm diameter, 500ml (16oz) and 700ml (22–24oz) capacities cover most bubble tea menus — because 90mm is what standard sealing machines take. Get the diameter wrong and no cup size will save you.
For bubble tea shops, the cup is not just a container — it is a branding surface, a functional tool, and a compatibility requirement. The wrong cup diameter means your sealing machine won't work. The wrong capacity means your recipes don't fit. And the wrong print quality means your brand doesn't stand out.
This guide covers everything bubble tea shop owners and QSR operators need to know about selecting PP injection cups.
Why PP Injection Cups for Bubble Tea?
PP (polypropylene) injection cups are the industry standard for bubble tea, fruit tea, and cold specialty drinks. Here's why:
- Sealing machine compatibility — PP cups are designed to be sealed with heat-seal film using a cup sealing machine. The rim diameter must match the sealing machine's die exactly.
- Clarity and presentation — PP cups are crystal clear, allowing the layers, toppings, and colours of the drink to be visible — a key part of the bubble tea aesthetic.
- Durability — PP is more rigid than PET at the same wall thickness, making it suitable for drinks with heavy toppings like tapioca pearls, jelly, and fruit.
- Custom printing — PP cups can be printed using offset printing or IML (in-mold labeling), enabling high-quality branded cups at scale.
The Most Common PP Cup Diameters
The rim diameter is the most critical specification for bubble tea cups because it must match your sealing machine. The three most common diameters are:
90mm Diameter
The most widely used diameter in Southeast Asia, Taiwan, and mainland China. Compatible with the majority of standard cup sealing machines. Available in capacities from 360ml to 700ml. If you are starting a new shop and haven't yet purchased a sealing machine, 90mm is the safest choice for equipment compatibility.
92mm Diameter
Common in markets where 92mm sealing machines are prevalent. Slightly wider rim, which some operators prefer for drinks with large toppings. Capacities typically range from 400ml to 750ml. Check your sealing machine specification before ordering — 90mm and 92mm cups are not interchangeable.
98mm Diameter
A wider-mouth cup increasingly popular for large-format drinks (700ml+), smoothies, and acai bowls. The wider opening makes it easier to add large toppings and for customers to use wide straws. Less common than 90mm/92mm, so sealing machine compatibility must be verified.
Matching Cup Capacity to Your Menu
Standard bubble tea sizes and recommended cup capacities:
| Drink Size | Typical Volume | Recommended Cup Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Regular (M) | 400–450ml | 500ml cup (allows headspace for ice and toppings) |
| Large (L) | 550–600ml | 700ml cup |
| Extra Large (XL) | 700–750ml | 900ml cup |
Always order cups with 20–30% more capacity than your drink volume. This headspace is essential for ice, foam, and toppings, and prevents spillage when the cup is sealed.
Printing Options for Branded PP Cups
Offset Printing
The most common printing method for PP cups. Ink is applied directly to the cup surface after forming. Suitable for 1–7 colour designs. MOQ typically 20,000–50,000 pcs per design. Good colour accuracy and cost-effective for medium to high volumes.
IML (In-Mold Labeling)
A printed film label is inserted into the mold before the cup is formed, fusing the label permanently into the cup wall. The result is a photographic-quality, scratch-proof, 360° print with no label edges. IML cups are premium-quality and increasingly popular with brand-conscious bubble tea chains. MOQ is typically higher (50,000+ pcs) and unit cost is higher than offset printing.
MOQ and Lead Times
- Blank (unprinted) PP cups: MOQ from 5,000 pcs, lead time 7–14 days
- Offset printed PP cups: MOQ from 20,000 pcs per design, lead time 25–35 days
- IML PP cups: MOQ from 50,000 pcs per design, lead time 35–50 days
Key Questions to Ask Your Supplier
- What is the exact rim diameter (outer and inner) of the cup?
- What sealing film specification is recommended?
- What is the wall thickness and base thickness?
- Are food-contact compliance documents available (EU or FDA)?
- Can you provide a sample to test with my sealing machine before ordering?
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