Kraft Packaging

What Is Kraft Packaging?

Kraft packaging is a group of products made from kraft paper produced by the sulfate (kraft) process, which gives it high tear and burst strength. It is used for wrapping, separating, surface protection and general packaging, with a wide product range serving the export, food and logistics sectors.

Kraft Packaging Product Groups

PAKKORA's kraft packaging range covers the following main groups:

• Kraft bags: Handled kraft paper bags designed for carrying.
• Flat-bottom kraft pouches: Preferred for food and retail packaging thanks to their self-standing base.
• Gusseted kraft pouches: Side gussets allow them to adapt to bulkier products.
• Kraft paper sheets: Flat sheets cut from a kraft paper roll, used for separating products, wrapping and void fill.
• Kraft shipping bags: Durable, envelope-style packaging for e-commerce and parcel shipments.
• Kraft takeaway packs / service containers: Kraft-based boxes and containers for food service and takeaway.

Why Kraft Paper?

The name "kraft" comes from the German and Swedish word for "strength," reflecting the high strength that the production method — the sulfate process — gives the paper. Because it is made from longer, less processed cellulose fibers than standard paper of the same weight, kraft paper has higher tear and burst strength. Its recyclable and generally biodegradable nature also makes it a preferred choice for exporters looking to reduce their environmental footprint compared with plastic packaging alternatives.

The Role of Kraft Packaging: Wrapping, Separating, Surface Protection

Inside a container or carton, kraft products perform three core functions: wrapping and protecting sensitive surfaces from scratching and friction, separating different product groups from one another, and filling gaps between loads as void-fill material. For this reason, kraft packaging is rarely used on its own — it typically plays a complementary role alongside cartons, FIBCs or other primary packaging types.

The Difference From Imitation Kraft

Alongside genuine kraft paper, the market also offers imitation kraft paper — similar in brown appearance but made from a different pulp and production process. Imitation kraft is generally lower cost, but its tear strength is lower than genuine kraft; this difference should be taken into account in export kraft packaging applications that call for high strength.

What Does Paper Weight (GSM) Determine?

The weight of kraft paper (grams per square meter, or GSM) directly determines its strength and its intended use. Lower-GSM kraft paper is sufficient for light-duty protection such as wrapping and separating, while higher-GSM kraft is preferred for products such as bags and pouches that need to carry their own weight. Choosing the right GSM ensures adequate strength while avoiding unnecessary material use.

Examples of Use by Sector

In the food sector, kraft pouches and service containers are produced so they can come into direct contact with food; in e-commerce and parcel operations, kraft shipping bags reduce freight costs thanks to their light weight; and in industrial export packaging, kraft paper sheets are used together with cartons or FIBCs for separating products and protecting surfaces.

Printing and Branding

Kraft paper's natural, unbleached surface is also valued for printing; brand logos, product information or handling instructions can be printed directly onto kraft bags and pouches. This supports branding while reducing the need for a separate labeling step.

Single-Sided and Double-Sided Kraft

Some kraft paper sheets are produced with one smooth side and one more textured side, while others have the same surface quality on both sides. On products intended for printing, the smooth side improves print clarity, whereas this difference matters less on sheets used purely for wrapping or separating.

Storage

Kraft paper products should be stored in a dry, cool environment on pallets, kept off direct contact with the floor, to prevent moisture absorption. Kraft rolls and pouches left in humid conditions can lose flexibility over time and print quality can deteriorate.

Common Mistakes

• Overestimating moisture protection: Kraft paper is not waterproof on its own; shipments with a high moisture risk may also require a desiccant or a protective film.
• Insufficient paper weight: Choosing kraft paper with too low a GSM for heavy products increases the risk of tearing during handling.