One of the most frequently asked questions about thermoformed paperboard or thermoformed corrugated products is “what are the end uses for the containers?” Because thermoformed corrugated containers have much higher 
rigidity than thermoformed paperboard containers, they are used more frequently for larger format, heavier duty packaging or end use where weight or size may be an issue for thermoformed solid paperboard. Both types of materials can be rendered to be dual ovenable (conventional oven and microwave) so foods can actually be cooked or baked in the containers, or reheated when combined with the appropriate coatings such as PET. While the applications for the containers are literally limited only by one’s imagination, below are a few common uses.
Dual Ovenable Use (Conventional Oven and Microwave with Appropriate Coatings)
- Frozen Foods
- Side Dishes
- Family Sized Entrées
- Pizza
- Complete Ready Meals
Fast Food & Take Out Applications
- Meal Service
- Lunch Box
- Take and Bake Pizza
- Deli Trays (Meats, Cheeses, Breads, Sandwiches, Cookies, etc.
Agricultural Packaging
- Vegetables
- Fresh Fruits
- Fresh Mushroom
Another frequently asked question about thermoformed paperboard or thermoformed corrugated products is “what are the advantages as compared to plastic or aluminum containers”? While there are many advantages depending upon the end use, the most important features are:
Paperboard vs. Aluminum Foil
- Unrestricted dual-ovenable use (Microwave, Conventional)
- Allows unrestricted metal detection in final filling process
- Printable with custom, multi-color graphics
- Improved distribution performance – paperboard has memory
- Unitized package – accepts printed heat-sealable film and board lidding
Paperboard vs. EPS (Expanded Polystyrene)
- Biodegradable
- Can be engineered for each specific end use
- Made from renewable resource and/or recycled materials
- Not petroleum dependent
- More stable pricing
Paperboard vs. CPET (Polyester Trays)
- Retains strength at high temperatures
- Biodegradable
- Can be engineered for each specific end use
- Made from renewable resource and/or recycled materials
- Not petroleum dependent
- More stable pricing
- Printable with custom, multi-color graphics
- Improved distribution performance – paperboard has memory
- Unitized package – accepts printed heat-sealable film and board lidding