Paperikassi

Paperikassi, or paper bag, is a bag made from paper designed for carrying goods. In retail and food service, paperikassi is used as a lightweight, recyclable alternative to plastic bags. The term is common in Finland and Nordic countries, where paper bags remain widespread even as many regions transition to more sustainable packaging solutions.

Most paperikasse are made from kraft paper, either from virgin wood fibers or recycled fibers. They may be uncoated for recycling, or coated or lined to resist moisture and grease. Common designs include flat-bottom bags that stand upright and bags with twisted or reinforced handles. Sizes range from small lunch bags to large grocery bags, and bags are often customized with logos or branding through printing.

Production involves pulping wood or recycled fibers, forming paper, converting to bag stock, and assembling into bags with handles and bottoms. Some bags are produced with water-based inks and minimal coatings to ease recycling.

Environmental considerations: Paperikassi are generally recyclable in municipal streams and can be compostable where industrial composting is available, especially if coatings are minimal and the bag is not heavily laminated. Their environmental footprint depends on fiber source, recycling rate, and transportation. In many markets, policies discourage single-use plastic bags and promote paper alternatives, though life-cycle assessments may favor different options depending on usage patterns.