If you’ve been looking at paper shopping bags, you might have run across ‘Kraft’ paper bags. It’s a word you’ve almost certainly heard of, but you might not know exactly what it means or understand the benefits associated with Kraft paper shopping bags.

That’s why we’ve written down everything you need to know.

What is Kraft Paper?

When paper is manufactured traditionally, the wood is ground to a pulp. However, Carl F. Dahl, who worked in Germany during the 1880s, found a better way of doing things. Instead of just pulping, Dahl found that treating the wood’s cellulose pulp with sulphate chemicals served to increase the strength of the final product. That’s why he called his paper ‘Kraft’ – it’s German for ‘strength’!

What Are the Advantages of Using Kraft Paper for Shopping Bags?

Okay, so now you have an interesting historical titbit about Kraft paper rolling around in your head, but why is it such a great material for shopping bags?

Here are just a few advantages:

• Durability: As you might have guessed, the main benefit of using Kraft paper is durability. In comparison with other paper packaging products, it can be used to hold fairly heavy items without fear of seeing the bag rip apart or the bottom fall through.
• Low Weight: You’ll usually find that more durable packaging materials are also heavier. However, Kraft paper has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. This keeps shipping costs low and storage easier – it’s also nice for your customers.
• Eco-Friendly: Most retailers understand how important it is to stay eco-friendly, and Kraft paper allows you to do just that. Even though some chemicals are used during the manufacturing process, it’s still a remarkably eco-friendly material to produce, and it’s also easy to recycle once people are done with your bags.