Packaging Materials Compared: Kraft Paper vs Bagasse

Max Green Pack produces two core packaging families: coated kraft paper and molded bagasse fiber. Each has strengths for different menus — this page compares them side by side.

Materials compared side by side

Coated kraft paper for drinks and soups, molded bagasse fiber for food service and compostability.

PropertyPE-Coated Kraft (hot)Dual Poly-Coated Kraft (cold)Bagasse Molded Fiber
Heat resistanceup to 95°Cdesigned for cold beveragesheat & grease resistant; microwave-safe (selected boxes)
Coating / finishinner PE coatingdual poly coating (anti-condensation)uncoated natural fiber
Grease & moisturemoisture-resistant, grease-resistant (bowls)moisture-resistantgrease-resistant
Compostableno (PE coating)no (poly coating)yes — BPI compostable
PFAS-freeyesyesyes
Typical productshot cups, soup bowlscold cupsplates, bowls, clamshells
Best forcoffee, tea, soups, stewsiced drinks, smoothiescatering, takeaway, dine-in mains

The two material families

Coated kraft paper Food-grade paperboard with a PE coating for hot service, or a dual poly coating for cold service. Performance is reliable and leak-proof, which makes it excellent for drinks and soups. Note that PE-coated paper is not compostable — if compostability is required, choose bagasse instead.

Paper Cups · Paper Bowls
Bagasse molded fiber Made from 100% natural sugarcane fiber, a by-product of sugar production. Sturdy, grease- and heat-resistant, PFAS-free and BPI-certified compostable. Ideal for plates, bowls, clamshells and catering service.

Bagasse Tablewares

How to choose

Match the material to the service type, then to the compliance requirement.

  • Hot drinks and soups, cost first: coated kraft hot range.
  • Cold drinks and anti-condensation: dual poly-coated cold cups.
  • Compostability or single-use plastic compliance: the full bagasse range.
  • Mixed menus: the most common combination is kraft for drinks plus bagasse for food — see our industry pages for ready-made line-ups.

Frequently asked questions

Which material is stronger?

Bagasse molded fiber is the more rigid of the two, which suits plated mains and catering service. Coated kraft paper is at its best for drinks and soups, where a leak-proof seal matters most.

Can PE-coated paper be composted?

No. PE and poly coatings are not compostable. If compostability is a requirement, choose the bagasse range, which is BPI-certified compostable.

Can both materials go in the microwave?

Selected products are graded microwave-safe, such as the take-out box. Check the individual product spec table, or ask our team to confirm for the exact item you need.

Can both materials be custom printed?

Yes. Custom printing is available across the coated kraft paper and bagasse ranges — send your artwork with an inquiry and we will quote the print options.

Ask which material fits your menu

Tell us what you serve and where it is served — we will recommend the material and the exact products.

Prefer email? Write to sales@mgpak.com or visit our Contact Us page.

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