April 28, 2026 | 6 min read
When it comes to custom printed boxes, the paperboard you choose affects everything — from print sharpness and structural integrity to sustainability and cost. The two most common options are Solid Bleached Sulfate (SBS) and Kraft (unbleached) paperboard. Here's how to decide.
What Is SBS Paperboard?
SBS (Solid Bleached Sulfate) is a premium-grade paperboard made from bleached virgin wood pulp. It features a bright white, smooth surface on both sides.
- Appearance: Brilliant white surface, ideal for high-fidelity CMYK printing.
- Rigidity: Excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio, even at lower weights (250–350 gsm).
- Food safety: Meets FDA and EU food-contact regulations.
- Best for: Pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food packaging where print quality and cleanliness matter.
What Is Kraft Paperboard?
Kraft paperboard is made from unbleached wood pulp, giving it a natural brown color. It's widely used in eco-conscious and rustic packaging.
- Appearance: Natural brown color, organic look. Can be printed but colors appear muted.
- Strength: Very strong tear resistance due to longer fibers.
- Sustainability: Made from recycled content or sustainably sourced virgin fiber. Easily recyclable.
- Best for: Eco-friendly brands, food service packaging, and products where a natural aesthetic is desired.
Side-by-Side Comparison
- Print quality: SBS wins — bright white surface allows vibrant, accurate color reproduction. Kraft absorbs ink, resulting in duller colors.
- Rigidity: SBS is stiffer at the same weight. Kraft requires heavier weights to match SBS rigidity.
- Cost: Kraft is typically 10–20% cheaper per ton. However, you may need a heavier weight, reducing the cost advantage.
- Sustainability: Kraft has a stronger eco-perception. SBS is available in FSC-certified grades but is not made from recycled content.
- Food safety: Both can be food-safe, but SBS is more commonly certified for direct food contact.
When to Choose SBS
- Your brand requires vibrant, photo-quality printing
- You need pharmaceutical or food-contact compliance
- Your box is small and needs maximum rigidity at low weight
- You want premium finishes like soft-touch, foil, or spot UV
When to Choose Kraft
- Your brand identity is eco/natural/rustic
- You're packaging dry foods, coffee, or bakery items
- Cost is the primary concern and print quality is secondary
- You want to highlight recycled content in your marketing
Key Takeaway
SBS is the go-to choice for pharma, beauty, and premium food packaging where print quality and compliance matter. Kraft is ideal for eco-brands and cost-sensitive applications. Both materials have their place — the right choice depends on your product, market, and brand positioning.
Not sure which material is right for your project? Contact us — we'll help you compare options and send samples of both.
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