Custom Coffee Bags: Valves, Sizes and Materials Explained
A roaster’s guide to degassing valves, bag styles, sizes and barrier films.
Your coffee bag has two jobs: keep freshly roasted beans tasting the way you roasted them, and convince someone to pick it up. Here is what roasters should know before ordering custom coffee bags.
Why coffee bags need a degassing valve
Freshly roasted coffee releases carbon dioxide for days. Seal it in an airtight bag without a valve and the bag puffs up or even bursts. A one-way degassing valve lets the gas out without letting oxygen in, so beans stay fresh and bags stay flat. If you pack within a day or two of roasting, a valve is essential.
Choosing a bag style
- Flat bottom bags stand like a box and give you five printable panels. They are the premium choice for specialty roasters. See flat bottom bags.
- Side gusset bags are the classic coffee bag shape, economical and easy to fill. See side gusset bags.
- Stand-up pouches work well for smaller sizes and ground coffee.
Common coffee bag sizes
- 8 oz: about 5 × 8 × 3 in
- 12 oz: about 5.5 × 9 × 3.5 in
- 1 lb: about 6 × 10 × 3.5 in
- 2 lb: about 7.5 × 12 × 4 in
These figures are for whole beans; ground coffee is denser and fits slightly more. Darker roasts are lighter and take up a little more space.
Barrier materials
Foil laminates give the highest protection from oxygen, light and moisture and are the standard for specialty coffee. Metallized films offer a strong barrier at a lower cost. If you want a natural look, kraft paper bags with a barrier lining combine a paper feel with real protection.
Closures
A pocket zipper hides behind a tear strip and keeps the front clean, a press-to-close zipper is easy for customers, and a tin tie gives a traditional fold-down look. Most specialty roasters now choose a zipper so customers can reseal the bag at home.
Leave space for roast dates
Design a clear area on the back or bottom for a roast date stamp or sticker. Printed bags are made in runs, so dates are added at packing time. Ready to start? See our custom coffee bags.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a valve for ground coffee?
Ground coffee releases gas faster, so most roasters still use a valve, especially when packing soon after grinding.
How long does coffee stay fresh in a valve bag?
Sealed in a foil bag with a one-way valve, coffee keeps its quality for weeks to months, though most roasters recommend drinking within a few weeks of roasting for the best flavor.
Can I print on all sides of a flat bottom bag?
Yes, all five panels can be printed.
