5 Types of Paper in Food Packaging: Key Differences and Applications

I. Introduction

With the rapid growth of global dining consumption, food delivery services, and modern retail formats, food packaging is no longer just a “container.” Today’s consumers expect packaging to ensure food safety and freshness, while also providing durability and protection. More importantly, sustainability has become a growing priority.

Against this backdrop, paper-based packaging materials are stepping into the spotlight. Renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable, paper is not only an ideal substitute for plastics but also represents the future of green packaging.

So, what are the five most common types of food packaging paper? And which applications are they best suited for? Let’s explore these categories to help guide your packaging design and material sourcing decisions.

II. Main Types of Food Packaging Paper and Their Features

1. Cupstock Paper

Cupstock paper is the core material for beverage paper cups, widely used for coffee, tea, and cold drinks. Its surface is specially treated to withstand both hot and cold temperatures and can be coated with single or double PE layers to effectively prevent leakage.

Features: High strength, heat and cold resistance, odor-free, excellent for quality printing

Applications: Coffee chains, tea drink brands, quick-service beverage takeaway

2. PE Coated Paper

PE coated paper is widely used in food-contact packaging due to its outstanding resistance to water and grease. The PE layer acts as an effective barrier against liquids and oils, protecting food integrity while extending the packaging’s durability.

Features: Waterproof and greaseproof, flexible, adaptable to various weights and processes

Applications: Fried chicken takeaway, burger wraps, cold drink cups, ice cream cups

3. Coated Kraft Back Board (CKB)

CKB combines both strength and visual appeal. The front side features a smooth white coated layer, ideal for high-quality printing that highlights logos and designs. The kraft back side offers excellent burst strength and load-bearing capacity, making it a top choice for food boxes and packaging containers.

Features: High stiffness, recyclable, outstanding printability

Applications: Frozen food boxes, ready-meal containers, premium retail food packaging

4. Liquid Packaging Board

Liquid foods such as milk and juice demand exceptionally high sealing and burst resistance. Liquid packaging board typically adopts a multilayer structure—combining paperboard, PE film, and aluminum foil—to ensure strong resistance against moisture and external impact.

Features: High barrier performance, moisture-proof, leakage-proof, suitable for aseptic filling

Applications: Milk cartons, juice boxes, plant-based beverages, functional drink packaging

5. Food Wrapping Paper

Food wrapping paper is often in direct contact with food items such as burgers, sandwiches, baked goods, and candies. Lightweight and convenient, it provides reliable resistance to oil and moisture, while also supporting colorful printing to strengthen brand identity.

Features: Lightweight, printable, grease-resistant, food-safe

Applications: Bakery products, fast-food burgers, confectionery, ready-to-eat snacks

III. Advantages of Choosing China Paper

Diverse Raw Material Options

We offer virgin wood pulp, bamboo pulp, and mixed pulp to meet different market needs for sustainability and performance.

International Certifications

All of our food packaging papers comply with global standards and hold certifications such as FDA, FSC, PEFC, and ISO—ensuring safe entry into international markets.

Global Supply Chain

With worldwide warehousing and logistics partners, China Paper provides fast delivery, helping clients shorten lead times and maintain market competitiveness.

Customization Services

We support OEM/ODM solutions, offering tailored basis weights, coating options, printing techniques, and packaging formats to help brands achieve unique competitive advantages.

IV. Application Scenarios

Quick-service restaurants and beverage chains: Paper cups, takeaway boxes, fried chicken and burger packaging

Dairy and beverage industry: Milk cartons, juice packaging, plant-based drink containers

Bakery and confectionery: Baking paper, chocolate and candy wrappers

Premium retail and dining: Customized branded packaging to elevate the consumer experience

V. Conclusion

In food packaging, paper selection is not only about food safety and storage stability but also directly shapes consumer experience and brand competitiveness. As environmental regulations tighten, paper-based packaging is steadily replacing plastic and becoming the mainstream choice of the future.

China Paper is committed to delivering high-quality, eco-friendly, safe, and customizable food packaging paper solutions. With stable production capacity and fast international delivery, we help our partners stand out in a competitive marketplace.

If you are looking for a reliable supplier of food packaging paper, contact China Paper today to request samples, technical specifications, and professional quotations.