Kraft Paper
We pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality paper and packaging solutions to our customers across the globe. We have a range of kraft paper solutions which possess unique qualities and purposes to serve different requirements.
One of the most common questions the PG Paper sales team is asked is “what is kraft paper, and what are different kraft paper uses?”. So, we wanted to provide you with some information on what kraft is, its various end uses and types of kraft paper packaging we can offer here at PG.
What is Kraft Paper?
Kraft is a versatile and sustainable paper and packaging solution which is used across a variety of industries. The term kraft paper covers a variety of products which are produced using a chemical conversion of wood into wood pulp and separating the lignin and cellulose fibres.
The reduced lignin content and high sulphur ratio in the paper production process ensures the papers high strength making it an ideal choice for the majority of packaging requirements.
The Process
While all kraft paper is produced using this process, small variations can greatly affect the end product. For example, the use of virgin or recycled pulp; kraft made from virgin pulp is very high strength and has a high tear resistance, most commonly used for heavy duty applications. Alternatively, kraft made from recycled material has a lower strength and tear resistance level, however, it is still suitable for heavy duty packaging applications and possess greater environmental benefits.
All kraft papers can be natural shade or bleached; natural shade paper is heavier duty as bleaching decreases the papers strength, however, bleached kraft paper has improved printability due to the smooth surface. Kraft paper can also be classified as MG or MF which refers to the finish of the paper in production; MF is machine finished and MG is machine glazed.
Different Types for Kraft
Here at PG Paper, we supply a ranger of kraft paper packaging products from our global network of mill partners. Here are some further details on some of the most popular kraft products currently on the market.
Natural Kraft
Unbleached or natural kraft is best known for its high strength qualities and is predominantly a brown kraft paper. It is a favoured choice for various applications, particularly in the food industry for food wrapping and packaging, as well as kraft paper bags.
Sack Kraft
Possessing great strength and tear resistance, sack kraft paper is used for various industrial packaging requirements where high strength is needed. This material is for cement, food and agricultural bags to name a few, meeting the demands of heavy-duty packaging with its ability to withstand substantial weight.
Bleached Kraft
Bleached kraft paper is sought after due to its high strength and attractive smooth finish. This kraft solution is widely used for products like shopping bags, sugar bags, flour bags, and milk bags. Bleached kraft paper caters to end-users with a preference for both strength and visual aesthetics.
MF (Machine Finished) Kraft
MF kraft is an uncoated material with high stiffness and is developed to be used within converting machines. This kraft material has a smooth finish and incredible runnability, and is most commonly used in the food industry for end uses such as takeaway and fast-food bags.
MG (Machine Glazed) Kraft
MG kraft is very similar to MF kraft, however, this kraft solution is coated on one side to achieve a smooth and glossy finish. Boasting both high rigidity and durability, the shiny coating helps enhance printability, making it an attractive option for shopping bags, boutique bags and flexible packaging applications.
Kraft Liner Board (KLB)
A high grammage kraft paper that is used for the production of boxes and corrugated packaging. KLB is a very strong material and is produced to withstand difficult conditions where moisture is apparent or where heavy pressure is applied. This specialised kraft solution is a great packaging option for when structural integrity is paramount.
Kraft Paper Uses
Kraft paper has a wide range of end uses which spans across various industries:
Kraft Paper Bags
Kraft paper bags are one of the most common kraft paper uses, widely used for shopping applications and industrial bags. Kraft is an inherently strong and durable material which ensures the bag can withstand the weight of purchased goods, making it an excellent choice for shopping bags. Kraft paper is biodegradable and can be recycled easily, which is another reason kraft paper bags are a popular option for many retailers and supermarkets.
Heavy-duty industrial bags are often produced using sack kraft paper due to its robustness and resilience. Sack kraft is strong enough to withstand the significant weight of industrial materials such as cement and coal, and offers durability during transport, storing and handling processes.
Food Wrap & Packaging
Kraft paper is used across the food industry, particularly for food packaging such as sandwich or meat wrapping. Kraft materials, in particularly MG (Machine Glazed) and MF (Machine Finished) bleached kraft, are used in food wrapping and is designed to be safe for direct contact with the food. These kraft materials are also easily customisable, which allows brands to print their branding on the wrap whilst continuing to uphold food safety standards.
Boxes / Corrugation
Kraft is a popular material used for the production of corrugated boxes. These boxes are produced using kraft liner board (KLB), a high strength kraft variant which its known for its high grammage and robustness. Kraft boxes are extensively used throughout the food industry to help foods be stored effectively. As many food products are required to be stored in moist conditions, KLB is used to withstand demanding conditions associated with moisture prone settings.
Kraft paper is not restricted to the above uses, with the increasing awareness of environmental concerns most companies are turning to kraft paper suppliers as an economically and environmentally friendly solution.
In contrast to other paper production methods, the Kraft process can use all types of wood, almost all chemicals used in the production process are from recycled and reusable sources and by products of the production are recycled where possible or reused for other purposes.