FAQs
1. Is glassine better than plastic?
Like all paper, glassine is curbside recyclable, naturally biodegradable, and compostable. From an end-of-life perspective, it is superior to plastic.
However, plastic can be made with recycled content and is a carbon-efficient material. On the other hand, glassine is always made with virgin content, requires fairly high resources to produce, and has relatively high carbon emissions.
Neither material is perfect. However, with many brands prioritizing curbside recyclability and plastic-free these days, glassine is an appealing, sustainable packaging alternative to plastic.
2. Is glassine the same as parchment paper?
No, glassine and parchment paper are not the same. Glassine is a smooth and glossy paper made through supercalendering, making it resistant to air and water. On the other hand, parchment paper is coated with silicone to make it non-stick and heat-resistant, often used in baking.
3. Can water be packed in glassine?
While glassine provides some resistance to moisture and grease, it is not waterproof. It is not suitable for holding liquids like water and will not withstand being submerged in water.
4. Is glassine eco-friendly?
Glassine is considered an eco-friendly alternative to plastic because it is made from renewable wood pulp, is curbside recyclable, naturally biodegradable, and compostable.
However, it does have its downsides. Specifically, it is made from virgin content and has a higher carbon and resource footprint than the mainstream packaging it often replaces.
We strongly recommend that brands understand the entire life cycle of the materials they are considering to make eco-conscious packaging decisions that best support their specific environmental goals.
5. What are the disadvantages of glassine paper?
Disadvantages of glassine paper:
- Less durable than synthetic materials
- Prone to tears and punctures
- Often more expensive than plastic
- Made with virgin content
- Requires high heat and energy to produce
6. Is glassine paper strong?
Glassine paper is strong for a paper product. It resists grease, moisture, and air. But, it is not as durable as many plastics. It cannot handle heavy items or harsh environments as well.