Green claims face the hardest test in the field of food packaging. A takeout box with a leaf on it is easy to print and difficult to defend when it is plastic-lined, has a label that is “biodegradable” and has no substance, or is coated so as not to be recycled. Patrons know, and in some states, regulators do, too. As long as the materials, coatings, and claims all align, eco-friendly custom food boxes can do well for restaurants and food brands. The guide includes real options, the pitfalls, and the questions to ask a supplier before you type a word about sustainability.

What are eco-friendly custom food boxes?

Biodegradable Food Boxes are food-contact cartons and containers that are made from recycled or renewable materials and are branded. The most frequently used source is Kraft food packaging boxes, which are paperboard and can be recycled in paper streams with minimal coating or none. Burger boxes, sandwich cartons, pizza boxes, and meal boxes are all examples of recyclable takeout containers. Sustainable food box printing involves the use of inks and coatings that are selected to allow the box to be recycled.

Benefits for businesses

• Packaging that is sustainable can withstand consumer investigation and create consumer trust.

• Recyclable Kraft and paperboard are generally rejected by cities and customers who demand that foam and plastic clamshells be eliminated.

• Put your marketing on a simple branded box – no heavy ink coverage or lamination is necessary.

• Selecting materials with a clear recycling pathway enables you to answer questions from customers and landlords.

• The wholesale volume will reduce the unit price, and a standard size for several menu items makes stocking easier.

Features & specifications

• Material is kraft, SBS paperboard, or recycled board and corrugated for pizza and large orders.

• GSM: 250 to 350 GSM for sandwich and meal cartons; heavier corrugated used if pizza or large orders.

• Printing: Food-safe inks, available water-based or soy-based, 1 colour to full CMYK.

• Sizes: anything you want, from narrow pastry boxes to deep meal boxes.

• Finishes: uncoated natural kraft or a grease-resistant coated finish; vent hole/grease hole and window options available.

• MOQ: No Minimum on most standard styles, great for testing a new menu item.
  

The Grease coating question

Grease resistance is frequently required in kraft food packaging boxes. A few older grease-resistant coatings contained PFAS, and multiple U.S. states have also enacted PFAS limitations in food packaging. Directly inquire with your supplier about what type of coating is on the board, whether it contains PFAS, and whether it impacts recycling. Dry or slightly oily food may be packaged in a plain carton, which is not coated. If you are ordering fried and saucy dishes, inquire about PFAS-free grease barriers and do your own taste testing.

Industries using green food packages

It’s used for dine-in and delivery by restaurants and fast-casual chains. It is used in cafes and bakeries for pastries and gift boxes. The box is their brand, which is why cloud kitchens and delivery brands use it. It is also used by caterers, food manufacturers, and farmers’ market vendors of event meals and retail packs.

Here are some guidelines for selecting the right food packaging supplier.

Request confirmation that the board, coating, and inks are approved for use in your marketplace. If you want to print any claim that is recyclable or compostable, ask for documentation. Try your hottest, oiliest menu item on a sample. The most frequent error made is printing “eco-friendly” on a box that is lined with plastic. The second is selecting a grease-resistant coating without knowing the contents of the coating. Inquire whether the supplier is producing or is a broker.

Why go for Custom Boxes Manufacturer (CBM)?

CBM is a direct recyclable takeout container, no reseller markup between you and the food packaging manufacturer. All orders come with complimentary design support, no order minimum on standard styles, eco-friendly material options, custom printing, and quick delivery throughout the USA.

FAQs

Q: Is the box of Kraft mac and cheese recyclable? 

A: Kraft is normally uncoated or lightly coated and is usually recyclable; however, for some heavy, food-soiled paper, recycling may be hindered. Check with your supplier and your local rules.

Q: Is my box compostable? 

A: Ask your supplier for documentation and a clear explanation. Unqualified claims can lead to customer confusion and complaints.

Looking for food packaging that you can stand behind

Get a no-cost quote and a free design mockup, a no-cost estimate, and wholesale pricing with material details in writing.

Call: 713-978-0088 or send us an email: sales@customboxesmanufacturer.com to place an order.