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Sustainability

FSC & Food-Grade Packaging: What Brands Need to Know

Sustainable food packaging materials

Sustainability is no longer optional for brands selling into European, North American, and increasingly Asian markets. FSC certification and food-grade compliance are baseline requirements for many retail buyers.

What is FSC certification?

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certifies that paper and board products come from responsibly managed forests. FSC-labelled packaging demonstrates your brand's commitment to sustainable sourcing — a requirement for many international retailers and a strong differentiator on shelf.

FSC Chain of Custody certification tracks materials from forest to finished product, ensuring traceability throughout the supply chain.

Food-grade packaging standards

Food packaging must use board and coatings approved for direct or indirect food contact. Key considerations include:

  • Board grade: Use food-grade SBS or kraft board with appropriate barrier coatings
  • Inks: Low-migration inks that do not transfer harmful substances to food products
  • Coatings: Water-based or aqueous coatings instead of solvent-based alternatives
  • Adhesives: Food-safe adhesives for carton assembly and window patching

Making the switch

Transitioning to FSC and food-grade packaging does not have to increase costs significantly. Many food-grade boards are competitively priced, and the marketing value of sustainable packaging often outweighs marginal material cost differences.

Work with a printer who holds FSC Chain of Custody certification and can advise on compliant material selection for your product category.