Grease-resistant fast food packaging is an essential part of
the modern food industry. It ensures that items such as burgers, chips and fried
chicken can be conveniently transported and consumed without leaking oils or
staining surfaces.
Over the years, a variety of designs for fast food packaging have emerged that balance practicality, branding potential
and environmental concerns:
Paper wrap
The lightweight paper, which is often waxed or coated, is
ideal for burgers, wraps, and sandwiches. It provides a tight wrap around food
items, retaining warmth while preventing oils from soaking through. These
wrappers can easily be branded with logos, slogans or seasonal graphics,
effectively turning them into mobile advertisements.
Clamshell box
Another widely used option, which is traditionally made from
polystyrene, but is increasingly being produced from paperboard or bagasse
(sugarcane fibre). These hinged boxes provide excellent structure and keep food
intact during delivery or takeaway. Grease-resistant coatings or natural
barriers prevent leaks, and the design of the box maintains heat and minimises
mess. Clamshell boxes are particularly popular for burgers, fried chicken
portions and hot sandwiches.
Greaseproof paper bags
These bags are lined or treated to resist oils, making them
ideal for holding handheld items like fries, nuggets and pastries. They are
lightweight and easy to produce in bulk, and they can be sealed with stickers
or folds for takeaways. Their compact design makes them ideal for portion
control and keeping food warm.
Compartmentalised containers
For meals that include multiple components,
compartmentalised trays or boxes are common. Typically made from sturdy
cardboard or moulded fibre, these packages separate the main course from the
side dishes, preventing the flavours and textures of different items from
mingling. A grease-resistant lining ensures that the box can hold fried or
sauced items without becoming soggy.
Other types of packaging
1. Although larger, pizza boxes also fall into this
category. Made from corrugated cardboard with grease-resistant coatings, they
maintain their structural integrity despite the high oil content of the
toppings. Vented designs help to reduce condensation, keeping crusts crispy.
2. Liners and inserts are often used in baskets or generic
containers. Grease-resistant sheets placed inside trays catch oils and crumbs,
making cleaning up easier and extending the usability of the packaging.
Each of these designs addresses the challenge of containing
oily, hot food while prioritising convenience, hygiene and branding potential.
