For coffee roasters and brand owners, choosing the right packaging is a crucial business decision. We often hear B2B clients ask, “How thick should my coffee bags be?” People tend to want a one-size-fits-all answer. However, the key to achieving optimal coffee preservation and brand presentation lies in understanding that bag thickness is a tool, not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Today, we’ll debunk the myth of the “best” thickness and offer strategic comparisons to help you make informed choices based on your unique business needs.
Understanding Measurement: Micrometer Explained
The thickness of coffee packaging bags is measured in micrometers (µm), where 1 micrometer equals one-thousandth of a millimeter. A higher micrometer number indicates a thicker bag, and generally, a more robust and durable one. The common thickness range for high-quality coffee packaging bags is between 100 and 200 micrometers.
Strategic Comparison: Depth vs. Business Needs
Thickness range, key characteristics, ideal application considerations
100µm – 120µm Lightweight, flexible, and affordable. Excellent basic barrier.
150µm – 180µm: Industry-leading size. A perfect balance is achieved between strength, barrier properties, and cost.
190 microns and above (heavy-duty). Extremely durable, highest protection rating. Rugged and durable, premium feel.
Key factors beyond thickness: multilayer composite
Thickness is important, but it’s only one part of the story. The real secret to coffee preservation lies in its multi-layered composite structure. A 150-micron coffee bag with a precise four-layer structure offers far superior preservation compared to a 200-micron coffee bag with only two layers.
Typical high-performance architectures include:
1. Outer layer: PET or paper – for easy printing and improved durability.
2. Barrier layer: Aluminum foil or metallized film – the main barrier against oxygen, light and moisture.
3. Inner layer: Food-grade polyethylene (LDPE) – used for heat sealing and to protect the coffee from the other layers.
Key takeaway: Prioritize barrier performance metrics (such as oxygen permeability – OTR) over thickness.
Making the right B2B choice: Key questions to ask
Before deciding on the thickness, please assess your business needs:
1. What is your target shelf life? Longer shelf life requires higher barrier properties, which is usually associated with greater thickness.
2. What are the sizes of your packaging bags? Larger bags can hold more coffee and require stronger, thicker materials to prevent tearing and maintain the seal integrity.
3. How will the coffee be shipped and handled? If you are selling online or shipping to distributors, invest in more durable (thicker) packaging bags to ensure the coffee arrives intact.
4. What is your brand’s aesthetic style? Thicker bags usually give customers a more substantial and premium feel.
Partner with packaging experts
At Sokoogroup, we don’t just sell coffee bags; we provide packaging solutions. Our B2B team is ready to analyze your specific coffee characteristics, distribution model, and brand objectives to recommend the best balance of thickness, material, and features such as custom exhaust valves and resealable zippers.
Let’s work together to protect your baking products and enhance your brand imag
Post time: Oct-29-2025
