PE Coated Paper vs. Greaseproof Paper: Which One Is Right for Your Food Packaging?

As a packaging printing manufacturer with 19 years of experience, one of the most common questions we receive from food brands and packaging distributors is:

"Should I choose PE coated paper or greaseproof paper?"

While both materials are widely used in food packaging, they serve different purposes and offer different levels of protection. Understanding the differences can help you choose the most suitable packaging solution for your products.

What Is Greaseproof Paper?

Greaseproof paper is specially treated to resist oil penetration without using a plastic coating. It is commonly used for:

• Pastries

• Cookies

• Sandwiches

• Bread

• Burgers

• Bakery packaging

Its main advantage is grease resistance while maintaining the natural feel of paper.

What Is PE Coated Paper?

PE coated paper is produced by laminating a thin polyethylene layer onto the paper surface.

This additional coating creates a stronger barrier against:

• Oil

• Water

• Moisture

• Sauce leakage

It is commonly used for:

• Fried chicken packaging

• Fast food wrapping paper

• Burger wrappers

• French fries bags

• Food tray liners

• Takeaway food packaging

Key Differences Between PE Coated Paper and Greaseproof Paper

Grease Resistance

Both materials provide grease resistance, but PE coated paper offers a stronger barrier for foods with higher oil content.

Moisture Resistance

Greaseproof paper mainly protects against oil.

PE coated paper protects against both grease and moisture, making it ideal for takeaway and delivery packaging.

Durability

PE coated paper is more durable and resistant to tearing when exposed to oil or moisture.

Printing Performance

Both materials support custom printing, logos, and branding.

For high-volume commercial packaging, PE coated paper often provides more consistent printing results.

Which Material Should You Choose?

Choose Greaseproof Paper If:

✓ You need breathable paper packaging

✓ Your products contain moderate oil content

✓ You prefer a paper-only appearance

✓ You are packaging bakery products

Choose PE Coated Paper If:

✓ Your food contains high levels of oil or sauce

✓ Moisture protection is important

✓ Your products are used for takeaway or delivery

✓ You need stronger packaging performance

Custom PE Coated Paper Solutions

At our factory, we provide:

• Custom sizes

• Custom logo printing

• Pantone color matching

• Sheet or roll format

• Single-side PE coating

• Double-side PE coating

• Food-grade paper and inks

Available GSM:

30gsm – 80gsm

Suitable for restaurants, fast-food chains, bakeries, coffee shops, and packaging distributors worldwide.

Why More Food Brands Are Switching to PE Coated Paper

As food delivery and takeaway services continue to grow, packaging is expected to provide better protection than ever before.

PE coated paper helps prevent grease stains, moisture damage, and leakage while maintaining an attractive branded appearance.

For businesses looking to improve customer experience and product presentation, PE coated paper remains one of the most practical and cost-effective packaging materials available today.

Looking for custom printed PE coated paper? Contact our team for free samples and expert recommendations.