KIND Bars Introduces Its First Recycleable Paper Wrapper
KIND Bars' new paper wrapper is a step toward fully recyclable packaging.
KIND Bars has introduced a curbside recyclable paper wrapper pilot program in the U.S., making it easier than ever to be “kind” to the environment.
The program began on May 1, 2025, per a press release. KIND Snacks’ first curbside recyclable paper wrapper pilot in the U.S. is a major step toward Mars Incorporated’s fully recyclable packaging for the bars.
This innovation supports the brand’s commitment to make all packaging recycle-ready by 2030. KIND’s new pilot uses curbside recyclable, How2Recycle pre-qualified pulpable paper, which makes it easier for customers to recycle and make a kinder choice for the planet.
The new KIND Bars wrapper will be available exclusively at select Whole Foods Market stores across Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Texas, southern California, and select stores in Louisiana, Arizona, and Nevada through Oct. 1, 2025. The wrapper envelops the brand’s best-selling Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt single bars.
“Our collaboration with KIND represents a true paradigm shift in sustainable packaging,” said Whole Foods Market Principal Packaging Advisor Sandra Lewis. “Through their innovative development of this recyclable paper wrapper, they’re fundamentally reimagining how snack foods can be packaged. Working together to bring this solution to our shelves represents a significant milestone in our mission to reduce single-use plastics.”
KIND Bars First Debuted a Paper Pilot Program in 2023
KIND Bars’ latest innovation in sustainable packaging is a fully curbside recyclable paper wrapper. However, this new design was built on the brand’s first paper-based wrapper pilot, which launched in 2023.
The press release reveals that the initial pilot helped the brand gather valuable consumer feedback and performance data, including insights on shelf life, shipping durability, and machine compatibility, before embarking on its latest launch. KIND Snacks subsequently worked with its packaging partner, Printpack, to refine its design from two years prior.
The result is a curbside recyclable wrapper that supports a cleaner planet, without compromising the product’s quality. These steps are taken toward recyclability goals for all KIND packaging by 2030.
“Developing a recyclable paper wrapper in less than two years demonstrates remarkable progress in sustainable packaging innovation,” said Printpack Chief Strategy Officer David Love. “This breakthrough sets a new standard for sustainable solutions in the food packaging industry and shows what’s possible when companies prioritize environmental stewardship.”
“At KIND, we’re constantly listening to our consumers, and what we hear is clear — they want products that not only deliver exceptional quality but also align with their values,” added Osher Hoberman, chief marketing officer of KIND North America. “This new paper wrapper pilot is a direct result of that feedback. We’re proud to continue to lead the industry with bold, forward-thinking and innovative solutions, not just for our packaging, but across our entire product portfolio.”
KIND Bars’ paper cartons are already widely recyclable. They are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council or the Sustainable Forestry Initiative.
