Ice cream melts fast, and the wrong packaging can make a sticky mess. That’s why the type of paper matters more than people think. The paper used in ice cream cups is usually food-grade paperboard1, often coated with PE (polyethylene)2 or PLA (polylactic acid)3 for moisture and leak resistance.
This paper is thick, safe for food contact, holds frozen desserts well, and can be customized for branding.
What are the materials used in ice cream cups?
Ice cream cups look simple, but their material design is key to performance. Ice cream cups are made from food-grade paperboard1 with an inner lining such as PE or PLA to prevent leaks and protect against moisture.
The base layer is usually virgin fiber paperboard4, which gives structure and printing quality. The coating is critical because frozen products create moisture and condensation, which can weaken uncoated paper. PE is cost-efficient and strong. PLA is plant-based, offering compostable options for eco-conscious brands. Double-sided coatings may be used for extra durability.
| Component | Purpose | Common Options |
|---|---|---|
| Paperboard base | Structure, print surface | Virgin fiber, FSC-certified |
| Inner coating | Moisture barrier | PE, PLA, aqueous |
| Printing ink | Brand design | Food-grade ink |
What is ice cream packaging made of?
Ice cream packaging is more than just cups—it includes tubs, wrappers, and boxes. Most ice cream packaging is made from paperboard or cardboard with moisture barrier5s, or from plastic materials like PET for transparent needs.
Paper-based packaging dominates for tubs, cups, and multipack boxes because it offers surface area for bright branding and is easy to stack. Poly-coated paperboard prevents sogginess from melted ice cream. For single-serve novelty ice cream like popsicles or cones, moisture-resistant papers and foils are used. In retail, paperboard outer packs hold individual wrapped products, keeping them stable in transport and freezers.
| Packaging Type | Common Material | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Cups/tubs | PE/PLA-coated paperboard | Leak-resistant, printable |
| Cone wraps | Waxed or silicone-treated paper | Prevents sticking, adds hygiene |
| Multipack boxes | Paperboard | Branding space, protect shape |
| Transparent lids | PET plastic | Showcase visuals |
What is the paper on ice cream cones made of?
Ice cream cones are delicious, but they still need hygienic wrapping that won’t stick or tear. The paper on ice cream cones is usually wax paper6 or silicone-coated paper7 to prevent the cone from absorbing moisture or sticking to the wrap.
This special paper keeps cones hygienic and easy to peel away when eating. Wax paper has a thin paraffin wax layer that repels moisture. Silicone-treated paper is more heat-resistant during wrapping processes, making it ideal for automated packaging. Both options are food-safe, grease-resistant, and printable for branding.
| Paper Type | Coating | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Wax paper | Paraffin wax | Moisture block, glossy look |
| Silicone paper | Silicone layer | Heat resistance, easy release |
What are raw cone papers made of?
Raw cone papers are the sheets used before cutting and wrapping cones, and the choice of paper affects the final cone’s presentation and safety. Raw cone papers are made from food-grade base paper coated with wax or silicone, stored in large rolls before being cut and printed for cone wrapping.
The base paper is often smooth and calibrated to exact weight, ensuring uniform wrapping on cone surfaces. Wax-coated rolls are common for budget-friendly production, while silicone coatings are used where automation and higher wrapping temperatures are needed. Printers apply water-based or soy-based inks to maintain food safety. Rolls are slit and cut to fit various cone sizes.
| Stage | Material Used | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Base paper | Food-grade wood pulp paper | Smooth, safe wrapping base |
| Coating | Wax or silicone | Prevent sticking, block moisture |
| Printing | Food-safe inks | Branding, design |
| Cutting/finishing | Roll-to-sheet or roll-to-roll | Ready for cone wrapping |
Conclusion
Ice cream cups, tubs, and cone wraps all rely on food-grade paperboard1 or coated papers to handle moisture while keeping products safe, branded, and enjoyable to eat.
Explore how food-grade paperboard ensures safety and quality in food packaging. ↩
Learn about the advantages of PE in maintaining food integrity and preventing leaks. ↩
Discover the eco-friendly benefits of PLA in sustainable packaging solutions. ↩
Find out why virgin fiber paperboard is preferred for its strength and print quality. ↩
Understand the role of moisture barriers in preserving food quality and safety. ↩
Learn about the properties of wax paper that make it ideal for food wrapping. ↩
Discover how silicone coatings improve moisture resistance and ease of use. ↩