These days, when you hear the question, “Paper or plastic?” the answer is an almost instinctive “Paper!” We all know that plastic is terrible for the environment, and that plastic bags, in particular, are clogging up our oceans, choking our wildlife and generally wreaking havoc on the world.
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Because of this, and because the paper bag industry has positioned itself as the solution for decades now, we rarely stop to ask a critical question: Is paper actually that much better?
The truth is, no, it’s not. Paper does a lot of damage to the Earth as well, and every time we unthinkingly grab a few bags at the checkout stand, we contribute to that damage. It’s time to learn the truth about paper bags, so we can start making better choices today.
Because the answer to “Paper or plastic?” should actually be “Neither … I brought my own.”
Paper bags just seem friendlier to the environment, right? They don’t have that slick petroleum look like plastic bags do; they’re a cheerful kraft color; they fold up neatly to stack in your cupboard for next time (assuming they didn’t get destroyed this time).
But research, such as this report, makes clear that plastic really doesn’t have much on plastic. To wit:
This report is admittedly biased toward plastic (and reusable bags), but if this is starting to sound like a vote for plastic bags, think again. Plastic leaches chemicals into our oceans and waterways, breaks into small pieces and accumulates in the stomachs of baby birds, strangles fish and collects into great seafaring clumps that become islands and continent-sized garbage patches. The point isn’t that plastic is good; it’s that our unwavering assumption that paper’s okay is wrong.
Here are a few more reasons not to trust that paper bag’s cheerful, eco-friendly-looking façade.
While plastic is certainly no slice of cherry pie, it has one thing going for it that paper does not: relative strength. Paper falls apart really easily. All you need to do is put one jug of milk in a paper bag and experience The Great Bottom Falling Out Phenomenon to know that paper bags aren’t a cure-all.
In some ways, this makes paper more disposable than plastic. And while plastic can be washed if it gets yucky, paper is done for as soon as food or oil soak into its fibers. Once that happens, you can’t even recycle it. Considering the fact that “It’s recyclable!” is often cited as the main argument in favor of paper, that’s pretty bad news.
If you must choose paper, at least try to keep wet items out of it and don’t overfill it. That way it won’t tear, and hopefully you can use it again. Even when you can, though, paper only stands up to a use or three. Reusable grocery bags, on the other hand, keep trucking long afterward, good for hundreds or even thousands of uses.
One thing paper bags are consistently lauded for is the higher rate at which they’re recycled. Because most municipalities accept paper bags curbside, it’s easy to forget about paper bags as soon as they’re hauled away by the recycling truck. But paper does not leave your curb and head straight to the store as shiny new paper. Far from it.
Allow us to summarize: Paper is first collected, sorted by machine and by hand, sorted some more to pick out all non-paper items, washed, turned to sludge, purified, poured, flattened, dried, colored or bleached, cut, packaged and sent out into the world. Each step of the way involves huge machines and intensive energy use, which rely on fossil fuels. Even if the results are good – we’ve kept a paper bag out of landfill – we have nevertheless added a huge number of chemicals to the world’s air and water.
If you’ve been relying heavily on the psychological comfort provided by paper bag recycling, think again. It’s time to stop assuming paper bags are “fine” and opt for a better option.
Obviously, reusable bags are better than paper bags. Yes, you can make the argument that any bag relies on manufacturing processes that use world resources and add chemicals and waste to the environment. No one’s arguing that. This is true when anyone makes anything, though, so we can’t very well allow ourselves to be crippled by that fact. Plus, people are always going to need bags in which to bring home their groceries, pack for trips or carry charitable donations to the nearest drop-off center.
The question shouldn’t be whether or not we use bags, because that’s silly. Rather, the question should be: “If we’re going to use the world’s resources, what’s the absolute best product we can make with those resources?”
When it comes to bags, the answer is obvious: Custom imprinted reusable bags are the ticket. Whether that means reusable wine bags, reusable insulated bags or reusable canvas totes, reusable laminated bags, recycled plastic bags, custom reusable bags and more. Our carrying devices are good for hundreds of uses. Instead of trashing or recycling bag after bag on the weekly grind of bringing home the groceries, patrons can now tuck everything into bags that they know can be refolded, washed, and used again and again.
Wouldn’t you like to be the one that brings such convenience to your clients and customers? When you work with Reuse This Bag, you can. We offer a huge range of options when it comes to type, color, logo design and more. We’ll help you customize your bag completely, so it doesn’t look like anyone else’s, then ship your new bags right to your front door. Whether you choose to give them away at the holidays or when customers buy a product, or keep them for sale at your register, you’re making a wonderful contribution to the world.
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When a customer picks up a bag of coffee, they make a decision in seconds—often based on the design, not just the roast level or origin. Studies show that 70% of consumers say packaging influences their purchasing choices, with packaging design credited for anywhere from 30% to 90% of sales decisions.
For coffee roasters, packaging is more than a container; it’s a statement. Whether selling in grocery stores, online, or in your cafe, your coffee bag is one of the most powerful touchpoints for your brand. The right design builds recognition, differentiates your business, and attracts loyal customers.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about coffee bag packaging, including:
Three components your coffee packaging needs for quality, freshness, and compliance
The four major packaging decisions every roaster must make
How to design a coffee bag that enhances your brand and drives sales
To deliver fresh, high-quality coffee and meet industry standards, your packaging must include these key elements:
1. One-Way Valve for Freshness
Fresh-roasted coffee releases carbon dioxide (CO2), which needs an escape route to maintain peak flavor. A one-way valve allows CO2 to exit without letting oxygen in, preventing premature staleness. Today’s coffee consumers recognize this feature—and expect it.
2. Resealable Capability
Exposure to air quickly diminishes coffee’s flavors and aromas. To ensure customers enjoy your coffee at its best, incorporate a resealing mechanism like a ziplock zipper, tin tie, or another airtight closure.
3. Local Legal Requirements
Every region has specific requirements for coffee packaging. Typically, your bag must display:
Product name/type
Net weight/volume
Business address with ZIP code
Roast date (recommended for freshness perception)
Before finalizing your design, check your local regulations to ensure compliance.
1. Choosing the Right Bag Style
Your packaging format affects both functionality and visual appeal. The most common styles include:
Flat Bottom Bags
Sturdy and easy to store
Offers five sides for branding
Premium feel but higher cost
Stand-Up Pouches
Versatile and cost-effective
Tear-away top for easy opening
Popular among specialty coffee brands
Gusseted Bags
Traditional and affordable
Less convenient for filling and stacking
Common among older coffee brands
Flat Pouches
Ideal for single-serve coffee
Sleek and compact
Best suited for hotels, travel, or sample packs
Alternative Coffee Packaging
Many roasters use creative packaging choices like jars and boxes to help their coffee stand out. By taking this route, you may run into challenges like:
Difficulty sourcing the right packaging materials consistently
Creating a custom design for oddly shaped packages
Sticking to a budget
Carefully review your budget and weigh your options to see if alternative packaging is a viable option for your company's goals.
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2. Selecting the Right Material
Your choice of packaging material impacts both sustainability and branding. The two most common options are
Kraft Paper and Matte Finish.
Kraft Bags:
Pros:
Most affordable coffee packaging material
Can buy larger quantities without breaking the bank
Ideal for those specializing in wholesale and subscriptions
100% natural, biodegradable, and compostable.
Cons:
Will need to purchase additional stamps, stickers, or labels to customize the bag design
May not appeal to a more “upscale” clientele
Matte Bags:
Pros:
Endless customization and artwork capabilities, including holographic or metallic elements, hot stamping, and varying color palettes.
Made from multiple layers to ensure coffee freshness and shelf life
Many manufacturers offer recyclable or green matte packaging options
Appeals to a broad audience
Cons:
More expensive than generic kraft bags
Order quantities will depend on bag design, size, and structure
Requires a film of aluminum to protect coffee, which can be a detriment to those valuing sustainability
Consumer interest in sustainable packaging is growing. Studies show that 60-70% of shoppers are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly materials. If sustainability aligns with your brand, consider:
Kraft paper or rice paper
Water-based or sustainable inks
100% recyclable low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
Some manufacturers also offer zero-waste programs, where used bags can be returned and repurposed.
3. Choosing the Right Size
Standard coffee bag sizes include:
8 oz (best for premium small-batch offerings)
12 oz (most popular retail size)
1 lb (commonly used for cafes and retail shelves)
5 lb (ideal for wholesale customers)
Choose a size that aligns with your business model. If you offer wholesale, invest in retail and bulk options to meet diverse customer needs.
4. Finding the Right Manufacturer
Your manufacturer plays a critical role in your packaging success. When selecting a supplier, consider:
Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ): Some require as few as 100 bags; others mandate 10,000+
Turnaround Time: Production delays are common, so plan ahead
Budget: Higher quantities lower per-unit costs, but balance this against cash flow
Leading manufacturers include MTPak, Roastar, Savor Brands, and North Atlantic Specialty Bag. Before placing an order, always request a proof to catch any design errors before production.
Customers may not know how your coffee tastes, but they judge the bag. Your packaging must capture attention, communicate quality, and drive purchase decisions. Here’s how to create a design that works:
1. Clear Brand Messaging
Your packaging should answer three essential questions:
Who are you? Include your logo, website, and location.
What do you do? Highlight your specialty, whether it's direct-trade sourcing, small-batch roasting, or sustainability.
What do you stand for? If social impact or environmental responsibility is core to your brand, make it clear on your bag.
2. Essential Coffee Information
Include key details that matter to your target audience, such as:
Coffee name and origin
Tasting notes
Roast level
Roast date (to reinforce freshness)
3. Eye-Catching Design Elements
Your bag design should:
Stand out on shelves with bold colors or unique typography
Align with your brand while being visually distinctive
Incorporate storytelling through illustrations, imagery, or copy
Pro Tip: Leverage color psychology to evoke the right emotions. For example, green signals eco-friendliness, while black conveys luxury and sophistication.
Thoughtful coffee packaging boosts brand recognition, sales, and customer loyalty. But designing a bag is just one part of the equation.
With Bellwether’s Shop Roaster, you can start roasting high-quality, sustainable coffee in weeks, not months. This simplifies the process while empowering you to focus on branding, storytelling, and growing your business.
Ready to take control of your coffee? Explore how Bellwether Roasters transforms the industry—one roast at a time.
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