In view of the shortcomings and problems of food packaging materials such as plastics, paper, metal, etc., the development trend of reduction, simplification, light weight, non-toxic and harmless of food packaging materials was reviewed, and the application range of natural packaging materials in food packaging was pointed out. Moreover, the aesthetic value of natural packaging materials was revealed, and the selection principle and application principle of natural packaging materials were put forward, providing a reference for the maximum application of natural packaging materials in food packaging design.