Plastic, paper, and metal packaging each carry environmental trade-offs across production, use, and disposal. Plastic is lightweight and effective in food preservation, but only about 9% is recycled, leaving persistent microplastic waste. Paper biodegrades and reaches recycling rates above 70% in Europe and North America, yet production consumes high water and energy. Metals like aluminium and steel are infinitely recyclable, although virgin production is energy-intensive. Sustainable choices depend on sourcing, recycling systems, and responsible design rather than a single material.