paperboard packaging material is disclosed for use in the manufacture of cartons for products which give off significant odors or aromas . the packaging material is treated to absorb odors generated by the products packaged in the packaging material . for this purpose , the paperboard packaging material is coated on one surface with an odor sorbing coating composition comprising activated carbon dispersed in an aqueous binder system . the odor sorbing coating covers substantially all interior surfaces of cartons formed from the packaging material to provide an effective concentration of activated carbon sufficient to render the contents substantially odor - free .