Speciality inks for food and pharmaceutical packaging: print quality and safety
When we talk about printing packaging for food or pharmaceutical products, not everything goes. Beyond an attractive design or a clear impression, What matters above all is safety.
That is why, special inks developed specifically for these sectors are available, which meet much stricter requirements than in other areas of printing.
Why is the ink in these containers so important?
Because in food and pharmaceutical products, any migration of the ink into the product may put the health of the consumer at risk.
This occurs when chemical components of the ink pass through the packaging and come into contact with the food, drink or medicine.
To avoid this, the industry has developed what is known as the low migration inks, formulated to minimise this transfer as much as possible and to ensure maximum safety.
What are the characteristics of these inks?
1. Low migration:
Its components are designed not to migrate or to migrate at very low levels, complying with the strictest European regulations such as EuPIA guides or the RREACH Regulation, which regulates the use of chemicals in the EU.
2. chemical resistance:
These inks must withstand humidity, fats, grease, alcohols or even oils without altering, so that the print remains legible and does not degrade.
3. Compatibility with the type of packaging:
Printing on paper, cardboard, PET or PE is not the same. The inks must be adapted to the material and the printing method used, ensuring good adhesion without the need to add additional products that could compromise safety.
4. Certifications and quality control:
Each batch of ink must be controlled and traced, ensuring that it complies with the specifications required for food or pharmaceutical packaging.
What is the benefit of using this type of inks?
- Confidence in the brand: the consumer perceives quality and safety.
- Regulatory compliance: the risk of sanctions or legal problems is avoided.
- Durability and resistance: labels or packaging maintain their image throughout the shelf life of the product, even under cold, humid or constant handling conditions.
Conclusion
Special inks for food and pharma are not a whim, but a necessity. They are the result of years of research to balance design, functionality and safety.
Working with a supplier that specialises in low migration inks is the best guarantee for product protection, comply with regulations and give consumers the confidence they deserve.
