Supplement Brands Gain Paperboard Packaging Option
Brands using contract packagers can now request a paperboard canister in place of rigid plastic containers.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Consumer Goods
Indiana-based contract packager Combined Technologies, Inc has begun offering Graphic Packaging's Boardio paperboard canister to North American nutraceutical brands. The paperboard format is positioned as an alternative to rigid plastic bottles, tubs, and cans for capsules, gummies, powders, softgels, and vitamins.
Why it matters
Brands in supplements and over-the-counter formats face pressure to reduce plastic packaging, and this agreement gives them a paperboard option without changing their contract packager. Access through an existing co-packer lowers the switching barrier for smaller brands that cannot run their own packaging lines.
The manufacturer reports that Boardio can use more than 90% less plastic than rigid plastic cans, depending on configuration, a figure drawn from comparison against rigid plastic cans. The source does not provide volume, pricing, or adoption figures for the agreement.
The players
Combined Technologies, Inc
Indiana-based contract packager providing primary and secondary packaging for supplement and over-the-counter formats.
Graphic Packaging
Paperboard packaging manufacturer that developed the Boardio canister and is extending it through co-packer partners.
The details
Combined Technologies operates a contract packaging facility that supplies primary and secondary packaging for capsules, gummies, powders, softgels, vitamins, and other over-the-counter formats. Through the agreement, its customers can select Boardio, which is made primarily from paperboard and is available with barrier options that limit oxygen and moisture exposure. Boardio is offered in different sizes and barrier specifications, including high-barrier versions, and can be printed across its full exterior and reclosed after opening. Graphic Packaging is working with other co-packers to extend Boardio to a wider range of brands.
Timeline
Article on the Combined Technologies Boardio agreement published November 5, 2026.
Market Landscape
The agreement places a paperboard canister alternative to rigid plastic inside a contract packaging channel that serves supplement and over-the-counter brands. Its spread depends on whether other co-packers adopt Boardio as Graphic Packaging seeks to extend it to more brands.
Nutraceutical and supplement brands should evaluate whether paperboard packaging fits their product formats, barrier needs, and branding requirements. Procurement teams should request pricing and performance data from their co-packers before changing packaging specifications.
The takeaway
Operators using a co-packer should ask whether paperboard formats are available in their product's barrier and size specifications. Track whether additional co-packers add Boardio, since broader availability would make it a practical option for smaller brands.
Further reading
For related reporting, see Consumer Goods coverage of packaging and product supply across Indiana.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Packaging Gateway.
