Ice cream paper cups aren’t just replacing plastic—they are becoming branding tools in the eco-friendly movement.
In 2024, paper ice cream cups1 are growing fast in use due to global plastic bans, eco demand, and their flexibility for many cold food applications.
Shops use them not only for ice cream, but also for frozen yogurt, milkshakes, smoothies, and fruit salads.
How Do People Use Ice Cream Paper Cups Now?
Plastic cups once ruled dessert packaging, but that’s changing quickly.
Paper ice cream cups are now common in cafés, dessert shops, and takeout services due to their eco-friendly image2 and branding potential.
Drivers of this shift:
- Restaurants moving to greener packaging
- Young customers choosing brands with sustainability values
- Better printing possibilities to boost social media exposure
Common uses include:
- Classic and premium ice cream
- Gelato and sorbet
- Frozen yogurt
- Milkshakes and smoothies
- Fresh fruit salads and chilled snacks
I’ve worked with brands who even use paper ice cream cups1 for soup sampling in winter—proof of their flexibility.
What Is the Paper Ice Cream Cup Market Size?
Sales figures show consistent growth year after year.
The global paper cup market3 is expected to reach USD 27 billion by 2027, with strong growth in the ice cream and dessert segment.
Key points:
- Annual growth around 3.8–4%
- Strongest gains in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific with strict plastic bans
- China and Southeast Asia growing fast from takeout dessert sales
- Custom printing is in demand for Instagram-ready packaging
Brands now see cups as shareable advertising space. A detailed, vibrant cup design can become part of a customer’s photo content.
Are Paper Ice Cream Cups Recyclable?
For customers, recyclability4 is now part of purchase choice.
Yes, but the coating type decides recycling or composting possibilities.
| Feature / Cup Type | Paper Ice Cream Cup | Plastic Ice Cream Cup |
|---|---|---|
| Eco impact | Recyclable / compostable ✅ | Not compostable ❌ |
| Printing & brand reach | Full-color eco print ✅ | Limited print ❌ |
| Hand feel and comfort | Warm touch, no extreme cold ✅ | Cold feel ❌ |
| Cost | Slightly higher | Lower |
| Law fit in global markets | Accepted in most ✅ | Often banned ❌ |
In my own projects, brands switch to paper not only for laws but because printed cups photograph better, making them marketing tools.
How to Keep Ice Cream Solid During Delivery?
Even with the right cup, delivery steps decide quality.
Insulation, sealing, and temperature control are key to delivering perfect ice cream.
Practical steps:
- Choose double-wall or thick paper cups for better insulation6.
- Seal with food-grade lids to block airflow.
- Use insulated bags or boxes for takeout.
- Keep delivery under 30 minutes when possible.
- Add ice packs for long or summer deliveries.
I supply one gelato chain that pairs 320GSM double-wall cups7 with a branded insulated pouch—customers love the premium feel.
Conclusion
Paper ice cream cups are replacing plastic worldwide. They work for ice cream and other cold foods, match eco laws, and support brand marketing. Choosing the right cup design, coating, and delivery method keeps products fresh and customers happy.
1.Explore the advantages of paper ice cream cups, including their eco-friendliness and branding potential. ↩
2.Discover strategies for businesses to enhance their eco-friendly image through sustainable packaging. ↩
3.Learn about the growth trends and market size of paper cups, especially in the ice cream sector. ↩
4.Find out the recyclability of paper ice cream cups and how different coatings affect this. ↩
5.Explore the advantages of PLA-coated cups, including their compostability and eco-friendliness. ↩
6.Learn about the importance of insulation in maintaining ice cream quality during delivery. ↩
7.Discover how double-wall cups improve insulation and enhance the customer experience. ↩