Top 5 Paper Bag Alternatives for Denver Restaurants (2025 Guide)
Introduction
Since January 2024, Colorado’s Plastic Pollution Reduction Act (HB 21-1162) has been in full effect, banning most single-use plastic carryout bags and introducing strict packaging rules. For Denver restaurants, this means adapting to sustainable alternatives that meet state requirements, protect the environment, and still deliver a great customer experience.
Whether you run a pizza shop, a high-end bistro, or a neighborhood café, the right packaging can boost brand visibility and keep you compliant — all while being eco-friendly.
Here are five top bag and packaging alternatives that Denver restaurants can confidently use in 2025.
1. Standard Kraft Paper Bags
Affordable, recyclable, and functional — kraft paper bags are the go-to for many restaurants and takeout businesses. They:
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Meet Colorado’s compliance standards.
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Are fully recyclable and biodegradable.
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Work for a variety of orders, from sandwiches to grocery-style takeout.
💡 Shop now: Brown Bag
2. Twisted Handle or Flat Handle Bags
For restaurants that prioritize customer convenience, twisted and flat handle bags offer:
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Better grip and comfort for customers.
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Capacity to hold multiple boxes or containers without tearing.
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A professional presentation for higher-end takeout.
These bags are perfect for large or heavy orders, especially for catering and group meals.
3. Customizable, Grease-Resistant Pizza Boxes
Pizza deliveries require packaging that keeps food fresh, hot, and grease-free. Our customizable pizza boxes:
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Maintain food integrity during transport.
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Prevent leaks and messes.
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Are recyclable and compliant with Colorado’s food safety packaging standards.
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Can be custom-printed with your restaurant’s branding to promote your business with every order.
💡 See our options: Pizza Box
4. Custom Printed Paper Bags
Turn every takeaway order into free advertising. Custom-printed paper bags:
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Showcase your restaurant’s logo and branding.
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Reinforce an eco-conscious image.
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Make customers more likely to remember and return to your business.
Printing is available on a variety of bag styles — including kraft, white, and luxury paper bags.
5. Non-Woven Reusable Bags
For a premium and long-lasting option, non-woven reusable bags are:
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Durable and washable.
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Perfect for gift packaging, premium takeout, or retail sales.
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An excellent way to encourage repeat visits and long-term customer loyalty.
Restaurants can sell or give these bags as part of VIP meal deals or special promotions.
Save Costs and Stay Efficient
With the $0.10 bag fee, even exempt restaurants can opt-in to collect fees and keep 100% of the revenue (depending on local rules). This helps offset the cost of higher-quality packaging.
By ordering in bulk through wholesale programs, restaurants can cut costs while ensuring a steady supply.
💡 Request a quote: Wholesale Bag Inquiry
Local SEO & Messaging
To boost Google visibility, focus on keywords like:
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“Denver restaurant paper bags”
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“Colorado compliant grocery bags”
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“bulk pizza packaging Colorado”
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“eco-friendly takeout bags Denver”
Highlight in your marketing that your packaging is compliant, sustainable, and brand-friendly. This not only draws in eco-conscious customers but also improves your local search ranking.
Action Steps for Denver Restaurants
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Choose the right bag or box type for your menu and delivery style.
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Upgrade to branded packaging to boost marketing while staying eco-conscious.
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Promote your compliance on social media and your website.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Switching to sustainable, compliant packaging isn’t just about following the law — it’s about delivering a better brand experience to your customers.
From kraft paper bags to custom-printed pizza boxes, the right packaging can protect your food, promote your restaurant, and build customer loyalty.
📦 Get started today — request samples or get a wholesale quote through our Wholesale Bag Inquiry.
