Kraft Material: Properties, Uses, and Packaging Applications
Author | Date: 23/4/2026
Many UK businesses are rethinking packaging, not just for cost, but for sustainability and brand perception. Customers now expect packaging to be recyclable, minimal, and environmentally responsible. This shift has made kraft material one of the most widely used options across retail, food, and eCommerce packaging.
But switching to kraft packaging isn’t just about being eco-friendly. It also affects durability, printing quality, and how your brand is perceived on the shelf. Some brands choose kraft for its natural look, while others use it to reduce packaging costs.
This guide explains what kraft material is, how it performs in real packaging scenarios, and how to choose the right kraft solution for your business.
Table of Contents
🌱 Why More Brands Are Switching to Kraft Packaging Right Now
Kraft material is a strong, recyclable, and cost-effective packaging option used across food, retail, and eCommerce. Its natural look appeals to eco-conscious customers, while its durability supports everyday packaging needs. Choosing the right type of kraft packaging helps reduce costs, improve brand perception, and meet sustainability goals.
What Kraft Material Means in Practical Packaging
In real-world use, kraft packaging is everywhere.
If you’ve ordered takeaway food, received an eCommerce parcel, or bought an organic product, you’ve likely seen kraft packaging in action. It’s used because it performs well without needing complex coatings or heavy materials.
For example:
- A bakery uses kraft boxes for takeaway packaging
- A clothing brand uses kraft mailer boxes
- An organic skincare brand uses kraft cartons for branding
Many businesses combine eco-friendly packaging materials with brand identity.
What Is Kraft Material?
Kraft material is a strong, paper-based packaging material made from wood pulp using the kraft process, which preserves fibre strength. It is commonly used in packaging because it is durable, recyclable, and cost-effective. Kraft packaging is available in natural brown or bleached white finishes and can be used for boxes, cartons, and wrapping. Businesses choose kraft paper packaging for its balance of strength, sustainability, and versatility.
Key Properties of Kraft Material
High Strength and Durability
Kraft fibres are longer and stronger than standard paper fibres, making the material tear-resistant.
Eco-Friendly and Recyclable
Kraft is biodegradable and widely recyclable, making it suitable for sustainable packaging goals.
Natural Appearance
Its brown, unbleached look communicates authenticity and eco-conscious branding.
Lightweight Yet Sturdy
Helps reduce shipping costs without sacrificing protection.
Good Printability
Best suited for simple, minimal designs rather than heavy ink coverage.
Types of Kraft Material Used in Packaging
Natural Brown Kraft
- Unbleached
- Most eco-friendly option
Best for:
Eco-conscious brands and minimal packaging
White Kraft (Bleached Kraft)
- Smooth white surface
- Better for colour printing
Best for:
Brands needing stronger visual design with eco appeal
Recycled Kraft Paper
- Made from recycled fibres
- Cost-effective
Best for:
Budget-friendly sustainable packaging
Coated Kraft Board
- Added coating for durability
- Improved moisture resistance
Best for:
Food and takeaway packaging
Common Uses of Kraft Packaging
Food Packaging
Used for takeaway boxes, bakery packaging, and fast food containers.
Retail Packaging
Common in clothing packaging, gift boxes, and cosmetic packaging.
Shipping and E-Commerce Packaging
Used in corrugated kraft boxes for durability.
Eco-Friendly Product Packaging
Ideal for organic and sustainable product lines.
Many businesses source these to maintain consistency and cost control.
Why Kraft Material Matters for UK Businesses
Kraft packaging offers both practical and commercial benefits.
- Cost efficiency: Lower material and production costs
- Brand perception: Signals sustainability and authenticity
- Shipping performance: Strong enough for most retail and eCommerce uses
- Customer appeal: Meets growing demand for eco-friendly packaging
Packaging Type Comparison
| Packaging Type | Best Use | Cost Range | Branding Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
Natural Kraft |
Eco packaging |
Low–Medium |
Medium |
White Kraft |
Retail packaging |
Medium |
High |
Coated Kraft |
Food packaging |
Medium |
Medium |
Corrugated Kraft |
Shipping boxes |
Low–Medium |
Low |
- Best for Sustainability: Natural kraft
- Best for Branding: White kraft
- Best for Shipping: Corrugated kraft
Not Sure If Kraft Is Right for You?
If you’re considering switching to kraft packaging, it’s worth reviewing your product type, shipping needs, and branding requirements first. A short consultation can help you choose the right structure and avoid costly mistakes. Speak to a Packaging Expert →
Kraft Material vs Other Packaging Materials
Kraft vs SBS Board
Kraft offers a natural look, while SBS provides a premium white finish for high-end printing.
Kraft vs Corrugated Cardboard
Kraft refers to the material, while corrugated refers to the structure used for strength.
Kraft vs Plastic Packaging
Kraft is biodegradable and recyclable, while plastic is not.
Is Kraft Packaging Eco-Friendly?
Kraft material is widely considered one of the most sustainable packaging options.
- recyclable in standard UK systems
- biodegradable under proper conditions
- available with FSC-certified sourcing
This makes kraft packaging suitable for brands focusing on sustainability.
How to Choose the Right Kraft Packaging
When selecting kraft packaging, consider:
- product weight and fragility
- need for moisture protection
- printing and branding requirements
- sustainability goals
- budget constraints
Matching these factors ensures the packaging performs as expected.
Practical Packaging Tips
- use corrugated kraft for shipping heavier items
- choose white kraft if you need strong print visibility
- avoid using kraft for luxury packaging without finishes
- test packaging before bulk production
- combine kraft with simple branding for best results
Common Mistakes Businesses Make
- using kraft for heavy-duty shipping without reinforcement
- expecting glossy or high-end print results
- ignoring moisture protection for food products
- not testing packaging samples before ordering
Why Businesses Choose Buy Packaging Boxes
Many UK brands rely on Buy Packaging Boxes for kraft packaging solutions.
Key strengths include:
- custom kraft box sizes and styles
- printed kraft packaging options
- eco-friendly material choices
- wholesale pricing for bulk orders
- reliable UK-based service
This allows businesses to balance sustainability, cost, and performance.
Final Summary
Kraft material has become a leading choice in modern packaging because it offers strength, sustainability, and cost efficiency. From food packaging to eCommerce boxes, kraft packaging supports both practical use and brand positioning.
Understanding the different types of kraft material and their applications helps businesses choose packaging that aligns with their product and environmental goals.
The next step is selecting a kraft packaging solution that fits your specific requirements.
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