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A Brief History of Gold Boards in Smoked Salmon
Gold foil boards originated in European smokehouses, where craftsmanship and presentation were central to the customer experience. These boards were used to showcase the rich color and quality of smoked salmon while also protecting the product during storage and handling.
As smoked salmon grew in global popularity, so did the use of gold boards-first by specialty producers, then by large-scale processors and national brands. Today, they’re a mainstay of smoked salmon packaging across deli cases, gift packs, and export boxes.
Key Features of Gold Foil Boards
- Durable, Food-Safe Construction - Gold boards are made from rigid paperboard, typically ranging from 24 pt to 60 pt in thickness. They’re laminated with a food-safe gold PET or metallized polyester film, creating a barrier that resists oils, moisture, and salt. For smaller packs of sliced salmon, lighter boards offer enough support, while heavyweight versions (40–60 pt) are ideal for full sides or whole fillets.
- Moisture and Grease Resistance - The laminated surface ensures that oils and brines don’t soak into the board, helping your product stay clean and fresh-looking through transport, refrigeration, and display.
- Strong Under Vacuum - Gold foil boards are engineered to work with vacuum sealing equipment, offering the strength and flatness needed for high-pressure packaging. They hold their shape and resist warping, even under refrigeration or during shipment.
- Designed for Visual Impact - Few packaging materials catch the eye like gold. These boards add a luxurious shine that elevates the look of smoked salmon—especially under clear vacuum or shrink film. They instantly communicate quality, freshness, and sophistication.
Why Use Heavyweight Gold Boards for Full Sides of Salmon?
When packaging whole sides of smoked salmon, the board needs to do more than look good-it has to perform under pressure. That’s where heavyweight gold boards shine.
- Increased Rigidity: Prevents sagging or curling during handling.
- Superior Presentation: Maintains a flat, attractive display throughout the shelf life.
- Export-Ready: Ideal for international shipments where durability and visual appeal are equally important.
- Food Service Utility: Used in catering, hotel platters, or upscale markets where full fillets are served directly on the board.
Common Applications
Gold foil boards are used across the smoked salmon industry in:
- Retail vacuum packs (sliced or whole)
- Gift boxes and sampler kits
- High-end grocery and specialty food markets
- Catering trays and deli displays
- Export packaging for premium fillets
Sustainable Options Now Available
While traditional gold boards use synthetic films, many modern versions are now made from recycled paperboard and feature recyclable or repulpable laminates, depending on the film used. Sustainability is becoming more important in seafood packaging, and gold boards are evolving to meet those expectations.
Final Thoughts
Gold foil boards aren’t just packaging-they’re part of the brand experience for smoked salmon. They protect your product, enhance its presentation, and create a premium look that resonates with customers.
Whether you’re an artisan smokehouse or a commercial producer, upgrading to high-quality gold foil boards-especially heavyweight formats for full sides-can add tangible value to your packaging line.
Need help choosing the right gold board for your smoked salmon products?
Contact us today to explore sizes, thicknesses, and custom branding options.
