Paperboard Packaging

Generally speaking, there is no strict differentiation between paper and paperboard. However, paperboard is generally thicker (usually 12pt or 0.012″ in thickness or more). Because it’s both lightweight and strong, it’s easily cut and formed—perfect to use in packaging products.

Paperboard packaging is available in several different grades, each with unique features suitable for different packaging needs. The most popular grades of paperboard packaging are:

  • Solid Bleached Sulfate (SBS)
  • Coated Unbleached Kraft (CUK Board)
  • Coated Recycled Board (CRB)
  • MET- PET Board

1. Solid Bleached Sulfate (SBS)

Also known as bleached paperboard, this is a premium paperboard grade produced from a furnish containing at least 80 percent virgin bleached wood pulp. Most bleached paperboard is coated with a thin layer of kaolin clay to improve its printing surface and may also be coated with polyethylene (PE) resin for wet strength food packaging. SBS is most popular in the United States.

Major markets that use SBS:

  • Medical packaging
  • Cosmetic and perfume packaging
  • Candy boxes
  • Other high-quality packaging
  • Stand up displays

2. Coated Unbleached Kraft Paperboard (CUK)

This grade of paperboard mainly comes in two variations.

CLAY NATURAL KRAFT (CNK®)

Also known as Solid Unbleached Sulfate (SUS®), this is a superior strength paperboard grade produced from a furnish containing at least 80 percent virgin unbleached, natural wood pulp. Most unbleached or natural kraft paperboard is coated with a thin layer of kaolin clay to improve its printing surface and may be also coated with polyethylene (PE) resin for wet strength food packaging.

Major markets that use CUK:

  • Heavy duty packaging
  • Frozen food packaging
  • Beverage carrying containers
  • Pharmaceutical packaging

MET-PET BOARD

Mainly SBS paperboard with metalized polyester film mounted on top (Silver, Rainbow, Gold, Patterns, etc.).

Major markets that use MET-PET Board:

  • Media packaging
  • Medical packaging
  • Pharmaceutical packaging
  • Signage
  • Display packaging

3. Coated Recycled Paperboard (CRB)

Also known as Clay Coated Newsback (CCNB), this material is typically coated with a thin layer of kaolin clay to improve its printing surface. It is produced from 100 percent recycled paperboard including old containers, newspapers, box board clippings and selected whites.

Major markets that use CRB:

  • Soap and laundry detergent packaging
  • Paper goods packaging (facial tissue and napkins)
  • Cereal cartons
  • Light bulbs
  • Dry food stuffs (FDA compliant)