A fluted layer of paper is sandwiched between two flat layers of paper to create corrugated paper, also known as corrugated cardboard. While the flat layers offer stability and a smooth surface for printing, the fluted layers offer strength and cushioning.

Recycled paper and wood pulp are just two of the many components used to make corrugated paper. Given that corrugated paper is recyclable, it is considered a green choice as well as being lightweight, which makes it an economical and effective selection for food packaging.

 

Wax paper, commonly referred to as greaseproof paper, is a form of paper that has a thin layer of wax applied to it to make it resistant to grease and moisture.

Since it can be used to line baking trays, wrap sandwiches or hamburgers, or cover food to preserve its freshness, greaseproof paper is frequently used in cooking and baking. In order to keep food layers from sticking to one another, it can also be used to separate layers of food.

Greaseproof paper has the advantage of being able to be used in the oven without melting or burning since the wax covering has a high melting point. Moreover, it is non-stick, making it simple to remove food from it.

Packaging Environmental supply greaseproof paper sheets available in different sizes and thicknesses as well as branding them.

 

Plastics like polyethylene, commonly referred to as polythene, are frequently utilised in the building, industrial, and packaging sectors. It is a strong, lightweight material that can withstand collisions, chemicals, and dampness. Polyethylene is a great option for many applications since it is simple to work with and can be easily moulded into different shapes.

Contrarily, paper is a naturally occurring substance created from wood pulp or other fibres. It is frequently used for packaging, tissue, and other purposes in the printing and publishing sectors. Paper is an environmentally favourable material because it is renewable and recyclable.

Although each material has benefits and drawbacks of its own, they are frequently combined in packaging applications. For instance, paper and polyethylene can be blended to produce a sturdy, water-resistant material that is perfect as a lining in food & drink packaging.

 

Paper and PET plastic are frequently used as food packaging materials. Because it is renewable paper appeals to both businesses and consumers alike who are concerned about the environment. Dry foods like cereal, snacks, and baked goods are frequently packaged using this method.

PET plastic, on the other hand, is a clear, tough, and lightweight variety of plastic. It is frequently used to package a variety of food and beverage items, such as soft drinks, bottled water, and sauces.

Together, both paper & PET are used for our cupcake boxes with the PET utilised for the front film

 
 

Due to their eco-friendliness, paper and PLA (polylactic acid) plastic are two forms of food packaging materials that have grown in popularity in recent years as food packaging made from a combination of both materials is compostable.

Paper packaging is constructed of renewable materials like recycled paper or wood. It is an environmentally favourable option for food packaging because it is recyclable and biodegradable. Paper can help maintain the proper temperature for food because it is a good insulator.

Contrarily, PLA bioplastic is created from renewable resources like sugarcane or cornflour. It decomposes into organic materials when disposed of properly since it is compostable and biodegradable. However, PLA bioplastic has a few disadvantages over conventional plastic, including a sensitivity to heat and a shorter shelf life.

Together, paper and PLA bioplastic are commonly used in food and drink packaging products such as paper cups, lids, round bowls and bioboxes.

Our paper and PLA bioplastic food and drink packaging products are certified to EN13432, meaning they will completely break down within 90 days in a commercial, industrial compost facility.

 
 

Paper and polypropylene (PP) plastic are two materials that are frequently used to package food. Paper packaging is an environmentally beneficial choice because it is biodegradable and created from renewable materials. However, because it might not offer enough protection from moisture or grease, it is not necessarily appropriate for all forms of food packaging.

In contrast, PP plastic, a flexible and long-lasting substance, is frequently utilised in food packaging. It is appropriate for packaging that can be used in the microwave and the freezer since it is heat- and moisture-resistant. It is also lightweight and impact-resistant, making it the perfect material for carrying food.

At Packaging Environmental, Paper and PP plastic is combined to produce products such as sandwich and baguette bags.

 
 

Created from the gelatinous extract from seaweed, seaweed-lined paper offers a new approach to sustainability, harnessing seaweed as a packaging material.

After the extraction process, what remains are fibres and biomass, which are combined with paper to provide the functionality of traditionally lined takeaway packaging without the use of plastic.

Seaweed-lined paper is ideal of both takeaway and delivery being both grease and leak proof.

This seaweed-lined paper not only aligns with eco-conscious values but also stands out visually, boasting a distinct and tactile quality.

 
 

Paper created from plant fibres such as wood pulp is known as pulp paper. Because to its durability, strength, and resistance to moisture, it is frequently used for food packaging. Containers, trays, and bags, among other types of food packaging materials, can be made from pulp paper.

Pulp paper food packaging has the advantage of being both a sustainable and renewable material. Trees, which can be harvested and grown in a sustainable way, supply the wood pulp used to manufacture pulp paper. Moreover, pulp paper is recyclable and biodegradable, minimising the quantity of rubbish dumped in landfills.

Pulp paper food packaging also has the advantage of being able to be made to fulfil particular standards for food safety. In order to keep food fresh and stop leaks, pulp paper can be coated with coatings or laminates that act as a barrier to moisture and grease. Pulp paper is a practical choice for reheating meals because it can be made to be microwave-safe.

Overall, pulp paper is an eco-friendly, adaptable, and secure material for food packaging. Food producers and restaurants all around the world use it extensively, and its use is predicted to increase as consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of packaging materials.

 
   

A form of paper that has a layer of silicon on one or both sides is referred to as silicon paper. The paper is non-stick and water-resistant thanks to the silicon coating, which makes it practical for a range of uses.

Silicone paper is frequently used in baking, either to line baking pans or to wrap food that is being cooked in the oven. Because the silicon paper's surface is non-stick, food won't stick to the pan, making cleanup easier.

In addition, silicon paper is employed in a number of industrial processes, including the production of labels and adhesive tape. The paper is perfect for usage in damp conditions due to its water-resistant qualities.

Overall, silicon paper is a flexible substance that can be used in a variety of situations where a non-stick, water-resistant surface is necessary.

 
   

Food packaging produced completely of paper without the use of plastic, other synthetic coatings, or additives is referred to as unlined paper food packaging. Food goods including sandwiches, burgers, fries, and other fast food items are frequently packaged in this manner.

Because it is compostable and biodegradable, unlined paper food packaging is regarded as being more environmentally friendly than plastic or other synthetic packaging materials. It can be produced responsibly without using up non-renewable resources because it is manufactured from renewable resources.

 

Paper Food Packaging

Paper is one of the most versatile and sustainable food packaging materials available. Made from renewable plant fibres, paper can be manufactured in many forms — from unlined compostable sheets to laminated or coated formats that resist moisture, grease, and heat.

At Packaging Environmental, we offer a wide range of paper-based packaging solutions designed specifically for the food and drink sector. Whether it’s sandwich bags, bakery wraps, takeaway containers, or lined cups, paper packaging provides a balance of sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and practicality.

Corrugated Paper (Cardboard)

Corrugated paper is created by sandwiching a fluted layer between two flat liners. The result is lightweight yet strong packaging with cushioning properties. The fluted layer allows for great heat retention whilst transporting food, and is a widely recyclable packaging alternative.

 
Key Benefits of Cardboard Food Packaging

Best Uses for Cardboard Food Packaging

  • Pizza boxes
  • Outer cartons and delivery packaging
  • Trays for bakery or takeaway goods

Sustainability & Disposal of Cardboard Food Packaging

Limitations & Solutions of Cardboard Food Packaging

  • Not naturally grease- or liquid-proof

Greasproof Paper

Greaseproof paper is designed to resist oils and moisture, making it ideal for food service applications. It is often used to line packaging or to wrap certain types of food to prevent leakage. It is cost effective and available in bulk for a wide range of uses. 

 

Key Benefits of Greaseproof Paper Food Packaging

  • Non-stick and moisture-resistant
  • Oven-safe due to the high melting point of wax coating
  • Available in custom sizes and branding options

Best Uses for Greaseproof Paper Food Packaging

  • Sandwich wraps
  • Burger liners
  • Bakery tray liners
  • Separating layers of food


Sustainability & Disposal of Greaseproof Paper Food Packaging

  • Compostable if uncoated or lined with compostable waxes


Limitations & Solutions of Greaseproof Paper Food Packaging

  • Recycling may not be possible with wax coatings 

 

Paper & Plastic Combinations

Paper + PE

 

Paper + PET

  • Combines renewable paper with clear PET windows
  • Ideal for bakery boxes, cake and cupcakes 
  • PET window recyclable, but separation needed

 

Paper + PLA

 

Paper + PP

Pulp Paper

Pulp paper is made directly from wood fibres and formed into rigid packaging. It is a durable biodegradable alternative to plastic or styrofoam alternatives, without a significant increase in cost.

 

Key Benefits of Pulp Paper Food Packaging

  • Durable and strong
  • Naturally recyclable and biodegradable
  • Can be coated for grease or moisture resistance
  • Microwave-safe if manufactured with heat-stable coatings

Best Uses for Pulp Paper Food Packaging

  • Trays
  • Bowls
  • Rigid food containers

Sustainability & Disposal of Pulp Paper Food Packaging

Limitations & Solutions of Pulp Paper Food Packaging

  • May need coatings for wet/oily foods
  1. 750ml Compostable Round Pulp Bowl
    750ml Compostable Round Pulp Bowl
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  2. 1000ml Compostable Round Pulp Bowl
    1000ml Compostable Round Pulp Bowl
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  3. 8oz Pulp Hot Cup Lid
    8oz Pulp Hot Cup Lid
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    10-20oz Pulp Hot Cup Lid
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  5. 500ml Compostable Round Bagasse Bowl
    500ml Compostable Round Bagasse Bowl
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Silicone Paper

Paper coated with silicone for a non-stick, water-resistant surface. It serves great niche case usage and can be a cost effective solution where limited use general waste packaging is required. 

 

Key Benefits of Silicone Paper Food Packaging

  • Heat resistant
  • Ideal for baking trays and wrapping foods
  • Non-stick surfaces make removal and cleaning easier

Best Uses for Silicone Paper Food Packaging

  • Baking liners
  • Confectionery wrapping
  • Catering sheets

Sustainability & Disposal of Silicone Paper Food Packaging

Best disposed of via general waste unless compostable coatings are used


Limitations & Solutions of Silicone Paper Food Packaging

  • Limited recyclability

Unlined Paper

Unlined paper packaging is made entirely from paper without plastic or chemical coatings. It is durable and often fully compostable or recyclable. Unlined paper packaging is a fantastic cost-effective alternate packaging solution to traditional plastic packaging.

 

Key Benefits of Unlined Paper Food Packaging

Best Uses for Unlined Paper Food Packaging

  • Sandwich bags
  • Bakery wraps
  • Fries and snack bags

Sustainability & Disposal for Unlined Paper Food Packaging

Limitations & Solutions for Unlined Paper Food Packaging

  • Not grease or moisture resistant

Paper Packaging FAQs


Is paper packaging always recyclable?

Not always. Unlined and corrugated paper are widely recyclable, but coated or lined papers may not be recyclable in standard streams, or may require additional steps to properly recycle. 

Check out our disposal page for more information, as there may also be added requirements for recycling paper packaging. 

 

Can paper packaging hold hot or oily foods?
Yes, but it often requires coatings to provide grease and moisture resistance.

 

Is compostable paper better than recyclable paper?
Compostable and recyclable paper packaging are both fantastic choices, with neither being better than the other. A choice between the two may be reliant on your disposal capabilities. 

 

Can paper packaging replace plastic packaging completely?
Whilst paper is a highly versatile packaging material, there may be occasions where plastic or plastic alternatives are required for suitable food packaging solutions. 

 

Is branded paper packaging available?
Yes. Paper is easy to print on, making it ideal for businesses wanting eco-friendly packaging with custom branding. Explore our bespoke and branding options or get in touch to learn more about our branding services.