Food grade ivory board paper serves as a reliable packaging solution for various food products. This material ensures safety and durability, making it an ideal choice for businesses in the food industry. Compared to normal food-grade board and food grade white cardboard, food grade ivory board stands out for its superior qualities.
What is Food Grade Ivory Board Paper?
Food grade ivory board paper is a specialized packaging material designed for direct contact with food products. This paper stands out due to its unique composition and safety features. It is made from 100% wood pulp, ensuring that it meets stringent food safety standards. The absence of fluorescent whitening agents distinguishes it from regular ivory board paper, making it a safer choice for food packaging.
Here are some defining characteristics that set food grade ivory board paper apart from regular ivory board paper:
| Characteristic | Food-Grade Ivory Board Paper | Regular Ivory Board Paper |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | No fluorescent whitening agents | May contain fluorescent whitening agents |
| Whiteness | Yellower than ordinary ivory board | Requires high whiteness |
| Safety Standards | Meets food safety requirements | Not necessarily food safe |
| Applications | Suitable for direct contact with food | General packaging applications |
| Performance | Excellent anti-fading, light resistance, heat resistance | Standard performance |
The layers of food grade ivory board paper consist of high-quality materials. The top and bottom layers are made from bleached chemical pulp, while the middle layer uses Bleached Chemi-Thermo Mechanical Pulp (BCTMP). This layered structure enhances its durability and performance.
Additionally, the manufacturing process adheres to strict standards, ensuring no harmful substances are present. This commitment to safety makes food grade ivory board paper an excellent choice for businesses looking to package food products securely.
Safety of Food Grade Ivory Board Paper
Safety is a paramount concern when it comes to packaging materials used in the food industry. Food grade ivory board paper meets rigorous safety standards, ensuring that it is suitable for direct contact with food products. This paper complies with various international regulations, including those set by the FDA in the United States and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in Europe. These certifications guarantee that the paper is safe for food contact and adheres to health and safety requirements.
The following table outlines key safety standards applicable to food grade ivory board paper:
| Standard/Certification | Description |
|---|---|
| FDA | Compliance with the Food and Drug Administration regulations in the United States for food contact materials. |
| EFSA | Adherence to the European Food Safety Authority standards for food safety in Europe. |
| Food-Grade Certification | Ensures that the paperboard meets specific regulatory requirements for materials in contact with food. |
| Barrier Coatings | Treatments that provide resistance to moisture and grease, essential for food packaging integrity. |
Food grade ivory board paper also features several important safety attributes:
- Food-Grade Certification ensures compliance with safety standards.
- Barrier Coatings protect against moisture and grease.
- Ink and Printing Compatibility must be non-toxic and approved for food packaging.
- Compliance with local, national, and international regulations is essential.
- Proper storage and handling maintain food safety properties.
In contrast, non-food grade packaging papers may contain harmful contaminants. Common contaminants found in these materials include:
| Contaminant | Source |
|---|---|
| Mineral oil | From print inks, adhesives, waxes, and processing aids |
| Bisphenols | From thermal paper receipts, inks, and glue |
| Phthalates | From inks, lacquers, and adhesives |
| Diisopropyl napthalenes (DIPN) | From carbonless copy paper |
| Photoinitiators | From UV-cured printing inks |
| Inorganic elements | From paints, pigments, recycling of non-food grade paper and board, processing aids, etc. |
| 2-Phenylphenol (OPP) | An antimicrobial, fungicide, and disinfectant; raw material for pigments and rubber additives |
| Phenanthrene | A PAH used in newspaper ink pigments |
| PFASs | Used as moisture and greaseproof barrier |
Manufacturers must adhere to strict regulations to ensure that food grade ivory board paper is safe for direct food contact. The United States and European Union have different regulatory approaches. The US FDA focuses on individual materials and permits additives unless proven harmful. In contrast, the EU mandates pre-approval of additives and employs E-numbers for labeling. Both regions maintain high safety standards, but the EU conducts final product testing and does not allow exemptions.
Sturdiness and Durability of Food Grade Ivory Board Paper
Food grade ivory board paper excels in sturdiness and durability, making it a preferred choice for food packaging. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand various conditions during transportation and storage. The manufacturing process plays a crucial role in achieving this strength. Each step, from raw material selection to coating, is designed to enhance the paper’s performance.
The typical thickness range for food grade ivory board paper varies from 0.27 to 0.55 millimeters. This thickness contributes to its ability to resist bending and tearing, ensuring that it maintains its shape even under pressure. Additionally, the double PE coating on the ivory board paper provides an extra layer of moisture resistance. This feature protects the contents from moisture, maintaining their integrity and hygiene.
Food grade ivory board paper also undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its durability. For instance, drop testing simulates accidental drops during handling and transit. This method assesses the vulnerability of the box and its contents from various angles. Compression testing evaluates how well the paper withstands pressure when stacked under other boxes. These tests confirm that the packaging can endure the rigors of transportation without compromising the safety of the food products inside.
The structural integrity of food grade ivory board paper is maintained through a meticulous manufacturing process. High-quality fibers are selected and processed to achieve uniform thickness and flexibility. The paper is then coated with food safety certified materials, ensuring it meets hygiene and strength standards before packaging and shipping.
Here are some key properties of food grade ivory board paper regarding moisture resistance:
| Property | Value | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture | 7.2% | GB/T462 ISO287 |
| Moisture Proof & Anti-Curl | Yes | - |
Comparison of Food Grade Ivory Board Paper with Other Packaging Materials
Food grade ivory board paper offers distinct advantages over other packaging materials, particularly plastic. First, paper is recyclable and can be processed into new products, significantly reducing waste. Additionally, it is biodegradable, decomposing naturally, while plastic can take centuries to break down. Paper derives from renewable resources, contrasting with plastic, which relies on non-renewable petroleum-based products.
When considering environmental impact, food grade ivory board paper decomposes faster than plastic. It is also easier to recycle, as plastic often becomes contaminated with food residue. Although paper production may consume more energy, it leaves a smaller environmental footprint when recycled properly. Modern paper mills have made strides in reducing their environmental impact by minimizing water and energy consumption. The recyclability of food grade ivory board paper is generally favorable, although some coated paper types may have lower recyclability compared to others.
Applications of Food Grade Ivory Board Paper in the Food Industry
Food grade ivory board paper finds extensive applications in the food industry due to its safety and durability. This versatile material is ideal for packaging a variety of food products, ensuring they remain fresh and protected during transportation and storage.
Common food products packaged using food grade ivory board paper include:
| Food Product | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Chocolate Boxes | 300gsm, 325gsm |
| Sandwich Boxes | 215gsm – 350gsm |
| Cookies Boxes | 400gsm with window |
In the bakery sector, food grade ivory board paper offers several advantages. It provides a sturdy barrier that protects food from external contaminants. Its smooth surface supports food-safe coatings, enhancing hygiene and extending shelf life. Additionally, the lightweight design reduces shipping costs, making it cost-effective for food manufacturers.
Moreover, food grade ivory board paper is resistant to moisture, helping to maintain the freshness and appearance of food items. Its elegant look adds sophistication to food packaging, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The beverage industry also benefits from this material. A study by Yuan et al. (2016) revealed that 17 out of 19 paper tableware samples in the U.S. were made from ivory board, indicating its common use in food and beverage packaging. This trend highlights the material’s safety and performance, making it a preferred choice among manufacturers.
As the demand for ready-to-eat meals rises, food grade ivory board paper continues to gain traction. Its eco-friendliness, made from recycled materials and virgin wood pulp, ensures safety for direct food contact. The superior printing performance enhances the visual appeal of ready-to-eat meal packaging, making it an attractive option for consumers.
Food grade ivory board paper stands out as an excellent choice for food packaging due to its hygienic properties, high durability, and excellent printability. Consumers increasingly prefer biodegradable options, driving businesses to adopt this sustainable material. This shift reflects a growing commitment to environmental responsibility in the food industry.
FAQ
What makes food grade ivory board paper safe for food packaging?
Food grade ivory board paper is made from 100% wood pulp and meets strict safety standards, ensuring it is free from harmful substances.
Can food grade ivory board paper be recycled?
Yes, food grade ivory board paper is recyclable and biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly choice for food packaging.
How does food grade ivory board paper compare to plastic?
Food grade ivory board paper is more sustainable than plastic. It decomposes faster and is easier to recycle, reducing environmental impact significantly.
Post time: Sep-09-2025