Introduction
Open any crafty bakery, roll off an online order, or open a bag of coffee beans, and there they are, in your hands, holding the Kraft packaging. That cozy brown-sandpaper. The definite dense feel. The quality that comes from quietness.
However, what is Kraft packaging? What makes it the preferred choice of small businesses to big e-commerce companies? Is it actually as green as said?
We’ve got all of these figured out in this guide. If you’re a business owner trying to discover the appropriate packaging material, or just curious what is in that brown paper bag, you’ll discover all the answers right here.
What Is Kraft Packaging?
Any package product constructed of kraft paper is considered kraft packaging. Packaging products made from kraft paper, or paper made by a chemical process called the kraft process (also referred to as the sulfate process), are considered kraft packaging. The term “kraft” itself means strong in German, and that is exactly what it is.
It is done by treating wood chips with sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide to produce wood pulp. In this chemical treatment, the lignin, which binds wood fibers together, is decomposed, and the cellulose fibers remain long and unbroken. The long fibre is why kraft paper has a high tear resistance and tensile strength compared to regular paper.
The result is a paper that is harder, more flexible, and more useful than regular paper. It’s the foundation of many packaging products such as boxes, bags, pouches, wrapping paper, mailer bags, and more.
Types of Kraft Paper Used in Packaging
Not all kraft paper is the same. There are several distinct types, each suited to specific packaging needs.
1. Natural (Unbleached) Kraft Paper
This is the classic brown kraft most people recognize. It retains its natural color because it undergoes minimal chemical processing. Unbleached kraft is the strongest variety, making it the top choice for grocery bags, shipping boxes, corrugated packaging, and industrial sacks. It is also the most cost-effective option.
2. Bleached Kraft Paper
White or off-white in appearance, bleached kraft paper goes through an additional chemical process to remove its natural color. This makes it ideal for premium retail packaging, cosmetic boxes, food-grade bags, and any application where a clean, printable surface is needed. It accepts printing beautifully and gives brands a more polished look.
3. Sack Kraft Paper
Specifically engineered for multiwall industrial sacks, sack kraft paper is highly extensible — meaning it can stretch without tearing. This makes it perfect for packaging heavy goods like cement, flour, animal feed, fertilizers, and chemicals. It handles both impact and moisture far better than standard kraft.
4. Coated Kraft Paper
Coated with polyethylene (PE), clay, or other materials, this type of kraft paper gains water resistance and an enhanced printable surface. It is widely used in food packaging, where moisture protection is essential, and in premium retail bags where vivid full-color printing is required.
5. Recycled Kraft Paper
Made from post-consumer or post-industrial paper waste, recycled kraft paper reduces reliance on virgin wood fiber. While it is generally not as strong as virgin kraft, manufacturers often blend recycled and virgin fibers to strike the right balance between environmental responsibility and performance. It is popular among eco-conscious brands and sustainable packaging initiatives.
Key Benefits of Kraft Packaging
The rapid growth of the kraft packaging market tells its own story. The global kraft packaging market was valued at $43.2 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $71 billion by 2035. That trajectory is not accidental. Businesses are choosing kraft packaging because it delivers genuine advantages.
Exceptional Strength and Durability
Kraft paper’s long cellulose fibers give it remarkable strength relative to its weight. Kraft boxes and bags hold their structure under pressure, resist tearing during transit, and maintain their shape through varying temperatures and humidity. This makes kraft the preferred material for both retail packaging and e-commerce shipping.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Uncoated kraft paper is 100% biodegradable and recyclable. It decomposes naturally without leaving harmful residues. With governments worldwide increasing restrictions on single-use plastics, kraft packaging offers businesses a compliant, sustainable alternative that aligns with consumer values. In markets across Europe and North America, choosing kraft packaging is increasingly a legal and ethical necessity, not just a preference.
Versatile Customization Options
Kraft paper takes printing well. Businesses can apply logos, brand colors, product information, barcodes, and artwork using a variety of techniques including flexographic printing, digital printing, and screen printing. Add finishing touches like embossing, debossing, matte lamination, or spot UV, and kraft packaging becomes a powerful brand statement. The natural brown base also pairs beautifully with minimalist black-ink designs — a look that communicates premium quality without overcomplicating the design.
Cost-Effective at Scale
Compared to rigid boxes, metal tins, or glass packaging, kraft paper is significantly more affordable — especially in high volumes. Unbleached kraft involves fewer processing steps and fewer chemicals, which keeps production costs down. For businesses that ship large quantities, this translates into meaningful cost savings without sacrificing quality.
Lightweight, Reducing Shipping Costs
Kraft packaging adds minimal weight to your products, keeping shipping costs lower than heavier alternatives like rigid cardboard, wood, or metal. Flat-pack kraft boxes and bags also store compactly, saving warehouse space.
Food-Safe and Chemical-Free
Food-grade kraft paper is free from harmful chemicals and dyes, making it safe for direct contact with food products. It is widely used in the food and beverage industry for bakery items, takeaway packaging, coffee bags, deli wraps, and more.
Premium Aesthetic Appeal
There is something about Kraft packaging that signals authenticity. Its natural, earthy look aligns perfectly with current consumer preferences for organic, sustainable, and honest branding. Whether a small-batch coffee roaster or a luxury skincare brand, kraft packaging communicates a story that resonates with today’s conscious shoppers.
Popular Types of Kraft Packaging Products
Kraft paper can be shaped into an impressive range of packaging formats:
- Kraft Boxes — Tuck-end boxes, auto-bottom boxes, two-piece boxes, window boxes
- Kraft Bags — Flat paper bags, SOS (self-opening style) bags, handle bags
- Kraft Pouches and Mylar Bags — For food and specialty products requiring airtight seals
- Kraft Mailer Boxes — For e-commerce shipping and subscription boxes
- Kraft Wrapping Paper and Tissue — For retail gifting and product wrapping
- Corrugated Kraft Boxes — For heavy-duty shipping and industrial use
- Kraft Tube Packaging — For premium or cylindrical products
- Kraft Sleeves and Trays — For bundling, retail display, and product organization
How to Choose the Right Kraft Packaging for Your Business
Choosing the appropriate kraft packaging requires some factors to be taken into account:
- Product Weight and Fragility — Heavier or fragile items need thicker kraft boards or corrugated kraft structures for adequate protection.
- Moisture Exposure — When exposed to moisture or liquids (food, skin care, beverages), use coated kraft or PE-lined products are available.
- Printing Requirements — If you want full-color prints, you’ll find that only bleached or coated kraft will do the job. Unbleached kraft is the best choice for a natural and minimal look.
- There is a clear link between volume and unit economics, with higher-order volumes getting better economics. Partner with a supplier that is capable of expanding with your business.
- Certifications: If the food/commercial products are for sale, the kraft paper should be certified as food grade safe
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason why Kraft packaging is one of the most trusted materials in the packaging world. It’s tough, durable, flexible, affordable, and handsome. Whether it’s a small business using Kraft packaging for their first handmade candle or a global company shipping millions of candle orders per year, Kraft packaging delivers.
By knowing what Kraft packaging is — and what it can do for your brand — you can make more intelligent packaging decisions. From retail to food service, e-commerce to custom printed packaging, Kraft provides a foundation to create something memorable.
