What is poly coated paper?

Poly coated paper packaging and products are made of the same kinds of fibers used to make paper and paper board.

A thin coating is then added to one or both sides of the paper to provide a barrier against water, oil, and grease so that it can be used to serve, package, and protect a wide range of products. These can be multi-material, foils, laminations, steel bottoms/tops, and more. Common poly coated paper products include:

Two empty beige paper cups connected with a white string, casting shadows on a brown background.

Food and beverage packaging

like cartons for milk, juice, or broth, cans or tubes for chips or refrigerated dough, tubs for ice cream, or resealable pouches for nuts or coffee.

Two brown paper package bags, one standing upright and the other lying flat, on a white surface.

Household and personal care packaging

like shipping envelopes, push-up tubes for deodorant, and blister pack backing.

Foodservice items

like beverage cups, paper plates, trays, and carriers.

Two ice cream containers, one pink standing upright and one purple lying on its side, decorated with ice cream graphics and a circular logo featuring a stylized ice cream cone.

Flexibles and laminates

like bags or pouches for coffee beans or nuts.

Several brown padded mailing envelopes on a brown surface, with one envelope partially open showing an inner clear plastic bag.

 FAQs

  • Many different coatings can be used as moisture or grease barriers on paper products. Some common coatings include polyethylene and polylactic acid coatings. Other coatings can also be used depending on the purpose of the product. Also, manufacturers frequently introduce new, more sustainable, innovations for poly coated paper products.

  • Yes. Poly coated paper products used for food service and food packaging must meet the safety standards of the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or equivalent standards.

  • Poly coated paper products are almost entirely made of paper, which is one of the most successfully recycled materials in the world. Polycoated paper products are a good fit to be recycled with other kinds of paper, like magazines, catalogs, and advertising mailers that also have coatings used for glossy printing.

    Not all communities collect poly coated paper products for recycling. Check with your local recycling service provider to find out if poly coated paper products are collected for recycling in your area.

    PCPA is working to expand the collection and recycling of poly coated paper products. Read more about our findings on the recoverability and value of poly coated paper.

  • Poly coated paper is the ideal solution for many everyday uses because it can be either rigid or flexible and keep moisture in or out. This means it can protect all kinds of products and provide a safe, convenient, and highly recyclable option for foodservice ware, food packaging, and packaging for many common household products.