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The catering and packaging industry uses a broad range of technical and product-specific terms. These can sometimes cause confusion when ordering products, comparing materials or reviewing specifications.
The team at iKrafts have drawn on decades of experience supplying the food industry to compile this set of straightforward definitions for commonly used terms across packaging and catering supply chains.
Bagasse is a natural by-product of sugarcane processing, used to manufacture disposable food packaging such as plates and bowls . It offers a more sustainable alternative to traditional plastic or polystyrene options. Strong, heat-resistant, and suitable for hot and cold foods, bagasse packaging is popular with food businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact . It holds its shape well, resists grease and is typically compostable under industrial conditions.
A material is considered biodegradable if it can be broken down by natural organisms, such as bacteria, into basic, non-toxic elements over time. In the context of biodegradable packaging , this typically refers to plant-based materials like paper, wood or natural fibres that decompose more quickly than conventional plastics. However, the term does not only refer to these materials and may be used more broadly. Biodegradable does not mean compostable - some biodegradable materials may degrade slowly or leave behind residues. For catering businesses, choosing biodegradable packaging can reduce environmental impact, but it’s still important to check disposal guidance and look for clear product information or certifications.
A rigid, single-piece box with an attached hinged lid, often used for serving hot takeaway items such as burgers, chips and sandwiches. Clamshell containers are designed for efficient packing and secure closure, and they help retain heat and protect food during transport.
Compostable materials are those that break down into natural elements under controlled composting conditions, without leaving toxic residues. In the food industry, compostable packaging usually refers to products that are certified to decompose in industrial composting facilities within a set timeframe, typically 8-12 weeks.
At iKrafts, when we describe a product as compostable, we mean it meets the recognised industrial composting standard (BS EN 13432) and is designed to break down in a commercial composting facility under the right conditions. Unless stated otherwise, these items are not suitable for home composting or general waste.
Corrugated cardboard consists of a fluted inner layer sandwiched between two flat linerboards. This provides strength, rigidity and insulation, making it a reliable choice for food packaging such as carry handle boxes, cake boxes and chip cornets . The air pockets within the fluted layer retain heat, while the board itself offers durability during transport. Unlike flat paperboard, corrugated cardboard is thicker and more impact-resistant, making it ideal for packaging that needs to protect and preserve its contents.
Glassine is a smooth, semi-transparent paper that resists air, water and grease. It’s used in deli and bakery packaging - such as bread bags - where visibility and product protection are needed. Produced by compressing paper fibres through a process called supercalendering, it has a sleek, waxy texture without containing any actual wax.
This measurement describes the weight of paper or cardboard based on a 1 m2 sheet. The higher the GSM, the thicker and denser the material. For example, 80 gsm is standard printer paper, while 300 gsm would be more suited to sturdy packaging like burger sleeves or food trays.
A gusseted bag includes extra panels, usually on the sides or bottom, that expand when the bag is opened. This added structure gives the bag more capacity and allows it to hold bulkier items or stand upright when filled.
This durable, food-grade packaging material is made from wood pulp. It has a natural brown appearance and is known for its strength, grease resistance and versatility. Kraft material is widely used in food packaging for items like carry trays . Many kraft paperboard items are recyclable or compostable, depending on coatings or linings, making them a good option for businesses aiming to reduce their environmental impact.
A Kray box is a sturdy takeaway container with a clear windowed lid, typically made from kraft paperboard. This style of packaging is popular for displaying items like cakes, pastries and full meal portions, as the transparent lid allows the contents to be seen without opening the box.
This describes packaging that can be safely heated in a microwave without melting, warping or releasing harmful chemicals. Suitable materials include polypropylene (PP), certain certified paperboards and most uncoated fibre-based containers like bagasse. Look for the microwave symbol or a “microwave safe” label in product descriptions. Note: Microwave-safe does not mean oven-safe, and many microwaveable plastics will melt in a conventional oven. Take care when choosing packaging products to make sure they meet your exact needs.
Refers to packaging specifically designed to withstand the high temperatures of a conventional oven - typically up to 200°C or more - without melting, warping, catching fire or releasing harmful substances. Ovenable containers allow food to be cooked or reheated directly in their packaging, which is especially useful for ready meals, baked goods and hot food delivery. In some cases, the base may be oven-safe but not the lid, so provide clear instructions to customers for reheating your products.
A plant-based bioplastic made from renewable materials such as corn starch or sugarcane. PLA offers a clear, plastic-like appearance and is often used for cold drink cups, deli containers and compostable lids. It is certified industrially compostable and breaks down under commercial composting conditions. With a low heat tolerance (softening at around 40°C), PLA is not suitable for hot foods or drinks.
A clear, durable plastic used for food-safe containers such as smoothie cups and deli pots. Known for its strength and high clarity, PET provides a reliable barrier against oxygen and moisture, making it ideal for cold and ambient foods. PET is widely recyclable, and many local authorities in the UK accept it in household recycling. You may also see rPET, which refers to containers made from recycled PET.
PP is a lightweight, semi-rigid plastic widely used in takeaway tubs, microwaveable containers and food packaging lids. PP is valued for its durability and heat resistance. It remains stable up to around 120°C, making it suitable for hot foods and reheating in the microwave.
Refers to packaging materials that can be collected, processed and reused to produce new items or raw materials within a functioning recycling system. Examples include clean paper, cardboard, PET plastic, polypropylene and aluminium foil trays.
Recyclability depends not only on the material itself but also on local collection and processing infrastructure. For food businesses, clear labelling (such as the Mobius loop symbol or on-pack instructions) can help your business signal to customers how to dispose of packaging responsibly.
Packaging with built-in safety features that make it obvious if the contents have been opened or interfered with. These might include break-away tabs, sealed lids or tear strips that visibly change once opened.
Used widely for delivery and retail food, tamper-evident packaging helps reassure customers that their meal has not been tampered with after preparation, or during transport.
Explore iKrafts’ range of food packaging to discover practical, durable and sustainable solutions for your catering needs.