Selecting the right paperboard is one of the most important decisions in packaging design. Strength, print quality, sustainability, cost, and consumer perception all play a major role, and the options can feel overwhelming. To help simplify the process, here’s a breakdown of six common FSC®-eligible paperboard materials and how they compare. (FSC® C149826)
Solid Bleached Sulfate (SBS)
Best for: Premium cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, spirits
SBS is known for its excellent print surface, bright white appearance, and high strength, making it ideal for luxury packaging. While fully recyclable and eligible for FSC 100% or FSC Mix, SBS is made from 100% virgin bleached fiber, giving it a higher environmental footprint than recycled options. Still, its premium quality and responsible forestry sourcing offer strong sustainability messaging.
Environment Score: 4 / 5
Coated Recycled Board (CRB / CCNB)
Best for: General folding cartons and everyday packaging
CRB features a coated top liner and is made from 100% recycled fiber, most of which is post-consumer. It offers good printability at a significantly lower cost, making it a budget-friendly, eco-forward choice. FSC Recycled eligibility and high recyclability make CRB a top contender for brands seeking affordability and strong sustainability credentials.
Environment Score: 5 / 5
Uncoated Recycled Board (URB)
Best for: Industrial packaging, partitions, inner packs
URB is a 100% recycled, uncoated board with a rougher surface. While not ideal for premium print applications, it excels in functionality and sustainability. It’s the lowest-cost option and offers high recyclability, excellent laser-etching compatibility, and strong sustainability messaging.
Environment Score: 5 / 5
Uncoated Unbleached Kraft (UUK)
Best for: Heavy-duty retail, industrial parts, eco-packaging
UUK is composed of unbleached virgin kraft fibers, providing exceptional tear resistance and stiffness without the addition of a clay coating. Its natural brown, textured surface offers a distinctively organic aesthetic perfect for brands seeking an authentic “eco-look,” though print quality is more rustic compared to coated options. With FSC 100% or FSC Mix eligibility and robust structural performance even in humid conditions, UUK combines heavy-duty functionality with responsible forestry messaging.
Environment Score: 4 / 5
Solid Unbleached Sulfate (SUS) / Coated Natural Kraft (CNK)
Best for: Beverage carriers, durable packaging, and premium natural-look packaging
These board types rely on virgin kraft fibers, offering exceptional strength, durability, and moisture resistance. With strong recyclability, FSC 100% or FSC Mix availability, and high performance, these boards are ideal for packaging that must carry weight or withstand moisture. These materials deliver an earthy, eco-forward look that resonates with environmentally conscious consumers.
Environment Score: 4 / 5
How to Choose the Right FSC® Paperboard
When evaluating the options, consider these key factors:
Print Quality & Aesthetics
- For luxury visuals: SBS or FBB
- For natural or rustic branding: CNK or SUS
- For budget-friendly printing: CRB
Sustainability Priorities
- Highest recycled content: CRB & URB
- Renewable fiber with premium performance: FBB or CNK
- Responsible virgin fiber: SBS & SUS
Strength & Durability
- Highest strength: SUS and CNK
- High stiffness with low weight: FBB
- Standard strength: SBS
- Lower strength: URB
Cost Efficiency
- Lowest: URB
- Low: CRB
- Medium: FBB, SUS, CNK
- Highest: SBS
Final Thoughts
Each FSC-eligible paperboard material offers unique strengths, whether your priority is premium print quality, sustainability, cost savings, or durability. Understanding how they compare helps you make intentional choices that align with your brand, your product, and your sustainability goals.
If you’d like help selecting the ideal paperboard for your next project, Wynalda Packaging’s experts are here to guide you. Contact us today!
