Food packaging guidance · Materials
Food-Contact Packaging: Paper and Board Questions to Check
Paper and board used around food must be chosen for the intended application, not by appearance alone. Before selecting printed tissue, wax paper, greaseproof paper or a food box, confirm the exact material and conditions of use with the supplier and check current Food Standards Agency guidance.
4 min read · Updated October 2026
Describe how the pack will be used
A sheet that wraps a dry bakery item, a liner that touches oily food and an outer carton separated from the food are different briefs. Share what the product is, whether contact is direct, how long contact lasts, and the expected temperature, moisture or fat exposure. Do not assume that a material name or a “natural” appearance confirms food-contact suitability.
- State whether the material touches food directly or only the outside of another pack.
- Describe hot, chilled, oily, wet or long-duration use if relevant.
- Include the print side and any coating, adhesive or other component in the question.
Ask for evidence for the exact specification
Request the supplier's current documents or written confirmation for the specific material, print and intended use. Keep the approved specification with the product records. A general statement about paper or board is not enough if the printed, coated or converted item differs from the material that was assessed.
Keep packaging and food labelling decisions separate
Packaging structure, food-contact suitability and the information printed on a food label are related but separate checks. The food business remains responsible for the final product and label information. Ask the packaging supplier what they can confirm about the quoted item, and check the relevant regulator or a qualified adviser for compliance questions.
Official guidance to check
Rules and technical guidance can change. Check the current source for your specific product and intended use.
Need a practical recommendation?
Send your dimensions and quantity for a practical recommendation.