FBB Board: Folding Box Board
FBB, or Folding Box Board, is the default cartonboard for premium folding cartons. It is a multi-ply board with a bleached, coated top layer that takes print beautifully, mechanical pulp in the middle that gives it bulk and stiffness at a lower weight, and a smooth reverse. That combination is why most cosmetics, pharma, and FMCG cartons on the shelf are FBB.
At a glance
- Type
- Multi-ply coated cartonboard
- Top surface
- Bleached, coated, high print quality
- GSM range
- 230 – 400 GSM
- Stiffness
- High for its weight (bulky middle ply)
- Excellent for offset, foil, emboss and spot UV
- Food contact
- Available in food-grade / virgin grades
In more detail
It is prized for its stiffness-to-weight ratio: an FBB carton feels substantial without being heavy, folds and creases cleanly without cracking, and holds a crisp printed finish. LeRoy Print Packs runs FBB as its standard premium carton stock.
Strengths
- Excellent stiffness-to-weight, so cartons feel premium without excess weight
- Clean creasing and folding without surface cracking
- Bright, smooth top layer for sharp offset print and finishing
- Available in virgin/food-grade for direct food and pharma contact
Things to consider
- Costs more than recycled duplex board
- Not a structural transit material. It is a primary/retail pack, not a shipper
Best for
Premium folding cartons for cosmetics, personal care, pharma, confectionery, and any brand where the carton is part of the product experience.
Common questions
What is FBB board made of?
FBB is a multi-ply board: a bleached, coated top layer for printing, one or more layers of mechanical (chemi-thermomechanical) pulp in the centre for bulk and stiffness, and a smooth bottom layer. The middle pulp is what gives FBB its high stiffness at a relatively low weight.
What GSM of FBB should I use for a carton?
Most retail folding cartons use FBB between 250 and 350 GSM. Lighter products (sachets, small cosmetics) can go to 230–280 GSM; heavier or larger cartons use 300–400 GSM for rigidity. We recommend the exact weight based on your product weight, size, and shelf conditions.
Is FBB food-safe?
FBB is available in virgin, food-grade grades suitable for direct and indirect food contact, and is widely used for confectionery, cereal, and pharma cartons. Tell us the application and we will specify a compliant grade.
Related materials
Products made with it
Written by LeRoy Print Packs, a printing and packaging manufacturer making cartons, corrugated boxes and labels in-house. Get a quote