What is folding boxboard (FBB) and how does it compare to solid bleached board?

Folding Boxboard (FBB) is a multi-ply paperboard composed of chemical bleached pulp outer layers and a mechanical pulp middle layer (often known as GC1 or GC2 grade).

### How FBB Differs from SBS:

• Multi-Ply Construction: The mechanical pulp center provides high bulk and stiffness with less total fiber weight.


• Higher Yield / Lower Weight: An FBB carton weighs roughly 15–20% less than an SBS carton of equivalent thickness, reducing material costs and transport emissions.


• GC1 vs GC2:

- GC1: White coated top and white coated reverse side (ideal when inside printing is needed).
- GC2: White coated top with a cream/manila reverse side (economical for standard retail boxes).

### Best Applications for FBB:


• Pharmaceutical cartons


• Confectionery and chocolate packaging


• Health & beauty retail cartons


• High-speed automated carton filling lines (due to high stiffness and crease memory).