Types of Packaging Materials for Food Businesses in the UK

In the competitive food and takeaway industry, packaging is not just about wrapping your products — it’s about protecting quality, presenting your brand, and creating an impression that lasts. The material you choose for your pizza boxes, burger boxes, coffee cups, or takeaway bags can influence customer satisfaction, costs, and even sustainability.

At Custom Supplies UK, we specialise in packaging that meets the needs of restaurants, takeaways, bakeries, and cafes. Here’s a guide to the most common types of packaging materials and how to select the right one for your business.

1. Corrugated Cardboard

Corrugated cardboard is strong, durable, and perfect for food delivery packaging. It offers excellent protection during transport and helps keep food warm for longer, making it the go-to choice for pizza boxes and large takeaway cartons.

• ✅ Sturdy and recyclable
  

• ✅ Good for stacking and deliveries
  

• ⚠️ Bulkier than other options, which may increase storage space and shipping cost

2. Paperboard / Cardboard Sheets

Paperboard is lightweight and easy to customise, ideal for retail-style food packaging. Many burger boxes, snack packs, and bakery cartons are made with paperboard.

• ✅ Excellent for branding and printing
  

• ✅ Lighter and cheaper than corrugated
  

• ⚠️ Less protection against heavy loads or moisture

3. Kraft Paper

Kraft packaging is increasingly popular for UK businesses focused on sustainability. Its natural, eco-friendly look is great for sandwich wraps, paper bags, and compostable takeaway boxes.

• ✅ Recyclable and biodegradable
  

• ✅ Matches eco-conscious branding
  

• ⚠️ Limited print vibrancy and needs lining for greasy or wet foods

4. Plastic

Although plastic is under scrutiny due to environmental concerns, it still plays a role in drink cups, salad containers, and food protection. Some businesses are now moving to compostable or recyclable plastics to meet eco goals.

• ✅ Lightweight and moisture-resistant
  

• ✅ Transparent for product visibility
  

• ⚠️ Recycling varies depending on type; not always eco-friendly
  

5. Aluminium Foil

Aluminium offers excellent heat retention and barrier protection, making it useful for foil trays, wraps, and premium takeaway containers.

• ✅ Keeps food hot and fresh
  

• ✅ 100% recyclable
  

• ⚠️ Higher production cost compared to paper-based options

6. Glass

Glass is mostly used for sauces, desserts, and beverages where premium presentation matters.

• ✅ Reusable and recyclable
  

• ✅ Excellent barrier against contamination
  

• ⚠️ Fragile, heavy, and costly to transport

Choosing the Right Material for Your Business

When selecting packaging, consider these key factors:

• Food type: Fragile baked goods need stronger packaging; dry snacks may only need lightweight boxes.
  

• Sustainability goals: Eco-friendly materials like kraft and recyclable board appeal to modern UK customers.
  

• Logistics & delivery: Corrugated boxes are best for long-distance deliveries, while paperboard suits local takeaways.
  

• Branding needs: Some materials support high-quality printing better than others.

Why Choose Custom Supplies UK?

At Custom Supplies UK, we provide:

• Eco-friendly and recyclable packaging solutions.
  

• Custom printing to showcase your brand.
  

• Strong, reliable materials for pizzas, burgers, drinks, and more.
  

• UK-wide supply with competitive pricing.
  

Whether you run a busy pizzeria, a coffee shop, or a fast-growing food startup, the right packaging material can set your brand apart. Let us help you choose packaging that’s cost-effective, durable, and sustainable.

👉 Explore our range of custom packaging today at CustomSupplies.co.uk.