Choosing between cardboard and plastic packaging: considerations to take into account
When you work in catering, take-away sales or events, the choice of packaging is a strategic decision. Should you opt for plastic for its practicality, or cardboard for its more ecological image? Each material has its advantages, but also its limitations. Before making a choice, it's important to understand their characteristics and uses. This article will help you make the right choice for your needs.
Plastic packaging
Plastic packaging is widely used in the food sector for its lightness, strength and versatility. Several types of plastic exist, each with specific properties.
PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is widely used for bottles and transparent containers. It's tough, watertight and, thanks to its clarity, makes food stand out. It is often used for salads, desserts or cold drinks.
PP (polypropylene) is a rigid, heat-resistant plastic. It is particularly well-suited to hot dishes, microwaves and preparations requiring good preservation. It is frequently used for meal trays and boxes.
PLA, on the other hand, is a plant-based plastic made from corn starch. It is often presented as a more ecological alternative, but remains a plastic that requires specific channels to be industrially composted.
Cardboard packaging
Cardboard packaging has become indispensable in recent years, thanks in no small part to growing ecological awareness. They are made from natural fibers and come in several types.
Kraft cardboard is one of the most widely used materials. Recognizable by its natural brown appearance, it is solid, recyclable and offers an authentic, responsible image. It can be found in lunch boxes, food bags and cups.
Cardboard covered with a protective film, on the other hand, improves watertightness and resistance to grease. It is often used in packaging for moist or greasy foods, such as burger boxes or soup pots.
Cardboard packaging is appreciated for its lightness, ease of customization and reduced environmental impact. They are the perfect solution for consumers looking for more sustainable solutions.
Differences between plastic and cardboard packaging
Environmental impact
This is undoubtedly the criterion that weighs most heavily today. Plastic is derived from fossil resources and takes hundreds of years to degrade in nature. Even when it can be recycled, it requires heavy industrial processes.
Cardboard, on the other hand, comes from renewable resources. It is more easily recyclable and biodegradable. What's more, many cardboard packages are now designed without plastic or with environmentally-friendly coatings.
Resistance and functionality
On this point, plastic often holds the advantage. It is totally watertight, highly resistant to shocks and better able to withstand extreme conditions such as cold or humidity.
Cardboard has made great strides, but is sometimes less suitable for very liquid or fatty foods, unless it has been specially treated. On the other hand, it is perfectly functional for most everyday uses.
Cost and availability
Plastic is generally cheaper to produce, especially in large quantities. Supply chains are well established, and lead times are often shorter.
Cardboard can be slightly more expensive, especially when it comes to eco-designed or customized solutions. However, the price gap tends to narrow as demand increases.
Customer perception and branding
From a marketing point of view, paperboard is clearly popular. Consumers associate this material with a more responsible and qualitative approach.
Well-designed cardboard packaging enhances the image of a restaurant or brand, whereas plastic is increasingly perceived as outdated or polluting.
Advantages of plastic packaging
Plastic packaging offers a perfect seal and excellent resistance. They effectively protect food from moisture and leakage, which is essential for certain preparations.
They are also lightweight, easy to transport and often less expensive. For specific needs such as freezing, sauces or beverages, plastic sometimes remains the most suitable solution.
Advantages of cardboard packaging
Cardboard packaging offers many advantages, starting with its low environmental impact. They are recyclable, often biodegradable and made from renewable resources.
They also offer great freedom of personalization, making them an excellent communication medium for professionals. Last but not least, they comply perfectly with new regulations aimed at reducing the use of single-use plastic.
How to choose the right packaging
Type of food or drink
The first criterion to consider is the nature of the product to be packaged. For a cold drink, salad or dessert, a plastic container may be appropriate. For a sandwich, hot dish or pastry, cardboard is often ideal.
Durability and transport
If your products need to travel for long periods or be transported in difficult conditions, choose sturdy, watertight packaging. Plastic may be safer, unless you opt for reinforced cardboard.
Sustainability and environmental regulations
More and more laws are governing the use of plastic, particularly in Europe. Choosing cardboard packaging allows you to anticipate these changes and be part of a sustainable approach.
It is therefore essential to take into account not only your current needs, but also your customers' future expectations and regulatory requirements.
