Discover the truth about kraft pouches biodegradability and how Stanley Package‘s sustainable solutions can elevate your brand’s environmental credentials.
What Are Kraft Pouches?
Kraft pouches are a type of envelope made using kraft paper, which is made from wood pulp (the raw material). Kraft paper is produced via kraft pulping, which involves soaking wood chips in a mixture of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium sulfide (Na2S). Kraft paper is not only strong and durable, it is also an unbleached paper that appears brown. The term “kraft” is derived from the German word for strength, and is indicative of the strength of these envelopes.
Because of the environmentally friendly characteristics and the versatility of kraft pouches, there are many applications across various industries from food to retail. They also provide a country-style look that is popular with consumers who prefer eco-friendly packaging.
Are Kraft Pouches Biodegradable?
The short answer is yes, kraft pouches are biodegradable. They contain mainly wood fibers, thus they will decompose naturally over time into components that can be returned to the ecosystem. Complete biodegradation will vary based on some factors including:
Factors Affecting Biodegradation
Material Composition: Pure 100% Kraft Paper without coatings or laminated surfaces could degrade under perfect environmental conditions to be biodegradable in approximately 2–6 months; however, the majority of Kraft Paper Pouches made commercially come with multiple layers to add different functions.
- PE Coating: The polyethylene/PE coating acts as a barrier against moisture hence slowing the rate of biodegradation.
- PLA Coating: Polylactic acid coating is compostable and accelerates breakdown
- Inks and Adhesives: The use of water based inks and eco-friendly adhesives has been shown to accelerate the rate of biodegradation compared to solvent based inks and adhesives.
Environmental Conditions: The strongest example of fast biodegradation occurs when composting occurs with all necessary environmental factors present such as moisture level, oxygen source and the presence of microorganisms. Biodegradation occurring in landfills tends to be extremely slow due to the lack of available oxygen to support the process.
Environmental Benefits of Kraft Pouches
Renewable Resource
Kraft paper is produced using raw material that is sourced from a properly managed forest. Kraft paper is produced in the FSC-certified forests where companies follow responsible forestry management practices.
Lower Carbon Footprint
Compared to plastic packaging, kraft pouches have a lower carbon footprint during production. The manufacturing of kraft pouches requires less energy to produce and result in lower levels of greenhouse gas emissions.
Recyclable and Compostable
Uncoated kraft pouches are accepted for composting at industrial compost sites and are also widely accepted in paper recycling programmes. Coated kraft pouches that are coated with compostable materials are also accepted in industrial compost sites.
Applications of Kraft Pouches
Kraft pouches are incredibly versatile and find applications in:
- Food Industry: Coffee, tea, snacks, grains, and baked goods
- Retail: Cosmetics, personal care products, and specialty items
- E-commerce: Shipping bags and product packaging
- Industrial: Parts and components packaging
Stanley Package: Your Trusted Kraft Pouches Manufacturer
Stanley Package has been providing quality custom flexible packaging since 1998. Our 15,000 sq. ft. facility has the most advanced manufacturing equipment to produce kraft pouches that are tailored to your specifications.
Our awareness of the needs of today’s markets has enabled us to create an innovative Reduction of Total Organics (RTO) system specifically intended to treat all volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions generated during the course of the manufacturing process, thereby producing a more sustainable manufacturing process that meets environmental regulations.
Why Choose Stanley Package?
- Custom Solutions: We offer fully customizable kraft pouches in various sizes, shapes, and finishes
- Quality Assurance: Rigorous quality control processes ensure every pouch meets industry standards
- Fast Turnaround: Efficient production capabilities mean shorter lead times
- Competitive Pricing: Economies of scale allow us to offer competitive rates without compromising quality
We not only manufacture but also provide custom solutions for all types of Flexible Packaging, including stand-up pouches, flat pouches, and roll stock films. Our manufacturing capabilities enable us to provide packaging solutions designed to meet your specific needs, while still providing you with superior product presentation, all while allowing you to meet your sustainability goals.
If you want to get started creating environmentally friendly kraft pouches for your packaging needs, please reach out to Stanley Package today to discuss your project and request a free sample. Together, we can develop a solution to protect your product while supporting your company’s environmentally conscious mission.
