Cold brew bag-in-box: Tips for creating great packaging
Bag-in-box packaging was first introduced for boxed wine in 1955 and has since become a cost-effective and versatile solution for specialty coffee companies worldwide. Today, cold brew bag-in-box packaging is a go-to choice for roasters who need to transport and store cold brew more efficiently.
Beyond convenience, this packaging is one of the most sustainable and hygienic ways to dispense and serve cold brew in bulk. From eco-friendly materials to effective branding, coffee brands should consider several key factors when designing their cold brew bag in box packaging.
We asked Fredric Korduner, co-founder and head of sales at Sidekick Cold Brew, for his recommendations on creating the best bag in box packaging. Read on to hear what he said.
What are the various parts of cold brew bag-in-box packaging?
What sets cold brew bag-in-box apart from other options is its three-part design. Fredric explains that this type of packaging typically consists of three key components: the box, the bag, and the dispensing valve. Every component helps ensure cold brew quality, from filling to dispensing.
“The inner bag that holds the cold brew concentrate or ready-to-drink coffee,” says Fredric. “It is designed to keep the product fresh and sealed until use.”
The inner bag is typically made from several layers of firm yet flexible plastic – often biodegradable—to protect the cold brew against external contaminants like oxygen and bacteria.
The bag is hermetically sealed and aseptic, ensuring health and food safety. During the aseptic process, the cold brew is sterilised separately from the packaging, giving consumers extra confidence that their coffee is safe to drink.
A spout or fitment is attached to the bag and serves as the dispensing valve. “Positioned at the bottom of the box, this valve allows for easy access to the coffee without contamination,” Fredric explains.
“The outer carton protects the bag and offers easy storage and handling, while the outer layer includes branding, product information, and storage instructions.”
Fredric points out that cold brew bag-in-box packaging is also more cost-effective and sustainable than ready-to-drink (RTD) alternatives.
“Boxed cold brew is often less expensive to produce compared to bottled alternatives, providing brands with a more affordable solution. The packaging uses less plastic than bottles, offering a more eco-friendly option.”
All three parts are typically collapsible, reducing shipping and storage space and making shipping and assembling much easier and cheaper.
“Boxed cold brew is easy to store, pour, and serve, making it ideal for both home use and commercial settings,” adds Fredric. “The packaging helps maintain the freshness of the cold brew, and consumers enjoy a high-quality product.”
Sustainability considerations for cold brew bag-in-box packaging
Sustainability should be a key focus when designing bag-in-box packaging. This means choosing environmentally friendly materials for all three components – the box, the bag, and the dispensing valve.
“Brands can prioritise sustainability by focusing on using fully recyclable boxes and bags to reduce waste and by opting for smaller, more compact packaging designs to reduce material use,” says Fredric.
For example, kraft paper and corrugated cardboard are the most eco-friendly, recyclable materials for the outer packaging.
Kraft paper is made from wood pulp, a biodegradable, renewable resource that decomposes within weeks. It’s lightweight yet substantial, ideal for protecting the inner bag. Corrugated cardboard features a fluted layer between kraft paper sheets, adding extra durability while remaining fully recyclable.
The internal bag and tap should also be made from sustainable materials like low-density polyethene (LDPE) and polylactic acid (PLA). Both materials ensure flexibility and maintain cold brew quality while being more eco-friendly.
LDPE is a highly recyclable thermoplastic known for its durability, affordability, and resistance to corrosion. PLA is a plant-based bioplastic derived from sources like sugarcane and corn and is both recyclable and compostable in an industrial facility.
“Working with packaging suppliers who use sustainable practices, ensuring the overall environmental impact is minimised,” Frederic adds.
Other tips for designing your cold brew bag in box packaging
Beyond using more sustainable materials, brands should focus on branding, design, and sizing when creating their own cold brew bag in box packaging.
Unlike coffee bags, the outer box provides a much larger canvas for brand storytelling and endless customization options. Companies can use this extra space to create eye-catching visuals and messaging that will stand out in retail settings.
“Make sure the packaging design is clear, easily recognizable, and communicates the quality of your coffee. Keep logos, product names, and key selling points visible,” notes Fredric.
“Utilize colours and graphics that resonate with your target audience and reflect the uniqueness of your cold brew product. Ensure the packaging is easy to store and pour while maintaining a premium look and feel. Simple, clean designs often resonate best with consumers looking for high-quality products.”
Cold brew bag-in-box packaging is also available in a range of sizes, from 1.5 to 20 litres, so it’s essential to know your target audience and their consumption habits. Smaller 1.5-litre formats are ideal for at-home consumption, allowing consumers to dispense daily servings and store the box in their refrigerator.
Larger 10– and 20–litre formats provide 50 and 100 servings, respectively, making them convenient for offices and event catering. They also offer a more cost-effective, sustainable alternative to single-serve RTD cold brew bottles or cans.
Cold Brew Pak offers fully customizable cold brew bag-in-box packaging solutions in sizes from 1.5 to 20 litres, made from recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable materials.
To source your own line of bag-in-box packaging, visit our website or get in touch with us directly.
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