Types of Paperboard – SBS vs. FBB

When it comes to selecting the ideal paperboard for packaging or graphical applications, understanding the differences between Solid Bleached Sulphate (SBS) and Folding Box Board (FBB) is crucial.

Both are high-quality, virgin fibre boards widely used in industries that demand durability, excellent printability, and visual appeal. However, their compositions, properties, and end-use suitability vary significantly. In this blog, we’ll explore the core characteristics of SBS and FBB, compare their performance and applications, and help you determine which paperboard best fits your packaging needs – whether it’s for premium cosmetics, food packaging, or retail products. With Double Tree Paper’s global supply capabilities, making the right choice has never been easier.

Solid Bleached Sulphate (SBS): What You Need to Know

Solid Bleached Sulphate, made from bleached chemical pulp, usually has a mineral/synthetic coated top surface in one or more layers (C1S). It often has a coating on the reverse side (C2S). This is a medium-density board with better printing properties for graphical and packaging end uses, being perfectly white from the inside out. SBS can be easily cut, hot foil stamped, creased and embossed. Other properties like being hygienic and pure with no smell and taste, make it usable for flavour-sensitive products like cigarettes, chocolate and cosmetics.

On the other hand, Solid Unbleached Board, also known as SUB/SBU, is a grade typically made of unbleached chemical pulp. It comes with two to three layers of mineral and synthetic pigment coating on the top and one layer on the reverse side. Manufacturers sometimes substitute recycled fibres for unbleached pulp. SBS board is commonly used for frozen food, footwear, and toy packaging.

Folding Box Board (FBB): The Essentials

Folding Box Board (FBB) is a high-quality, multi-layered paperboard comprising a central layer of mechanical pulp enclosed between outer layers of chemical pulp. The top layer is of bleached chemical pulp with an optional pigment coating. This is a low-density material with high stiffness and has a slightly yellow colour, mainly on the inside. Major end uses of folding box board are health and beauty products. This also includes frozen and chilled packaged foods, confectionaries, pharmaceuticals, graphical uses and cigarettes.

Being virgin fibre paperboard with consistent purity for product safety, the combination of inner layers of mechanical pulp with outer layers of chemical pulp creates a strong and stiff sheet, making it a low-density material with high stiffness. The fully coated grades give great printing and visual impact. We are premium Folding Box Board Suppliers around the globe.

Commonly, FBB is available from a range of 150- 400 gsm. Double Tree Paper regularly offers various GSM. As a globally recognised folding box board supplier, Double Tree Paper team are available to discuss our global portfolio of paperboard suppliers.

SBS vs. FBB in Conclusion

Whether you’re designing premium cosmetic cartons or robust food packaging, understanding the core differences between SBS and FBB paperboard helps ensure your end product performs as intended.

Double Tree Paper team are here to guide you through your options and provide you with reliable, high-quality solutions from our trusted global suppliers.