Pressed Paperboard vs. Molded Fiber: What Is the Difference and Which Is Better for Sustainable Food Packaging?

In sustainable food packaging, two materials are top contenders: pressed paperboard and molded fiber. At PaperTech, we specialize in pressed paperboard trays—and there’s a good reason for that.

Let’s explore how pressed paperboard compares to molded fiber, and why it might be a perfect fit for brands aiming for performance, eye-catching presentation and a sustainable approach.

Why do food brands choose pressed paperboard trays and molder fiber packaging?

Pressed paperboard and molded fiber are two of the most common plastic-free packaging materials in the sustainable food packaging space. While they’re both fiber-based and seen as eco-friendly alternatives to plastic or foam, they are not the same—and the differences matter, especially for food brands.

What is molded fiber?

Molded fiber (or molded pulp) is made from recycled paper that’s mixed into a slurry, formed in a mold and then dried. Since it’s made from pulp slurry, molded fiber tends to have a rough, matte texture with a bit of a porous feel.

What are the typical uses for molded fiber?

• Everyday use for disposable items (plates, bowls, etc.)
• Foodservice items like (drink carriers, clamshell containers, etc.)
• Protective fiber packaging (electronics, medical supplies and other fragile goods)

What is pressed paperboard?

Pressed paperboard is a bit different. It’s made by cutting and forming sheets of fiberboard using heat and pressure. Instead of starting with a messy pulp, it begins with flat paperboard that is shaped with real precision into durable, smooth trays.

What are the typical uses for pressed paperboard?

• Frozen meal trays
• Prepared food packaging
• Retail-ready food trays that need sealing, printing or cooking in-pack

What are the differences between molded fiber and pressed paperboard?

Here’s a quick glance.

Why should food brands switch to sustainable pressed paperboard trays?

The material of your food packaging must do more than just hold the product. It needs to keep food fresh and protected, look great on shelves and support your brand’s sustainability goals. At PaperTech, our pressed paperboard trays deliver all that—and more.

• Recyclable & Repulpable: Our environmentally friendly paperboard trays are made from renewable fiber and are accepted in curbside recycling programs.
• Engineered for Food: With heat resistance, strong seals and optional barrier coatings, our pressed paperboard can go from freezer to oven to table seamlessly.
• Custom Branding: Perfect for sharp graphics and vibrant full-color printing, our dual-ovenable pressed paperboard tray helps engage shoppers.
• Made in the USA: Our pressed paperboard trays are produced in Ohio using sustainably sourced materials and are free of harmful chemicals like PFAS.

What’s the best sustainable packaging material? Pressed paperboard or molded fiber?

Molded fiber has its uses, but when it comes to food applications, pressed paperboard offers the durability, performance, shelf appeal and sustainable edge that today’s brands are looking for.

At PaperTech, we’re proud to engineer sustainable pressed paperboard trays that companies can use to package their food and help their brand shine—without sacrificing quality.

Looking for pressed paperboard trays that are right for your packaging and branding requirement?

Talk to our team today to find the right sustainable paper tray that fits seamlessly in your existing process.