Which Is Better: Kraft Paper Bags or Glassine Paper Bags?

With the EU’s single-use plastic ban now fully in force and the global uptake of FSC forest certification, eco-friendly paper bags are displacing plastic packaging at an annual growth rate of 23%. In high-end consumer sectors—such as apparel, cosmetics, and electronics—kraft paper bags and glassine paper bags have become brands’ “green business cards” for winning visibility, thanks to features like customizable printing and full biodegradability.

Kraft Paper Bags

Made from sulfate softwood pulp formed into either natural or bleached bases, kraft paper bags feature long, tightly interwoven fibers and are available in a wide range of basis weights to suit different load-bearing needs.

Glassine Paper Bags

An upgraded version of kraft paper treated with a super-calendering (high-pressure smoothing) process. Glassine paper bags have an even higher fiber density, a smooth semi-translucent surface, and still retain excellent tear resistance.

Performance Comparison

Tear Resistance & Load-Bearing

Kraft Paper Bags: Their robust, thick structure makes them ideal for transporting heavier goods in e-commerce and courier packaging.

Glassine Paper Bags: Engineered with oriented fibers for lightweight high toughness, they’re perfect for scratch-sensitive items like thin apparel or cosmetics.

Printing Compatibility

Kraft Paper Bags: The darker, natural base is well suited to dark-tone logo hot-stamping and foil stamping.

Glassine Paper Bags: The ultra-smooth surface supports four-color high-definition printing; its semi-transparency enables “see-through” design elements that showcase products.

Industry Applications