Jute fibers are treated with mineral oil, or historically whale oil, to improve spinnability, which raised questions about coffee contamination from these hydrocarbons, but further studies showed it to be infinitesimal. Bags with synthetic fibers (woven or non-woven) are commonly used now.

The materials often include which can be made from kraft paper, recyclable plastics, or bioplastics. Several coffee shops and roasters have switched to coffee packaging made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE). LDPE is a thermoplastic characterised by its properties as a thin, lightweight, and flexible material.