For decades, the food industry has relied on polyethene or wax coated paper or cardboard for labels and packaging - but times are changing. Recyclable moisture barrier coatings offer a new, exciting and environmentally-friendly way to upgrade your packaging printing service.
What is a recyclable moisture barrier coating?
Traditional polyethene coated paper or cardboard works well to provide a moisture barrier for food. However, it cannot be pulped like uncoated paper or cardboard; this means that recycling is significantly more difficult (and expensive).
Fortunately, recent innovations have provided a new coating material. EcoShield Barrier Coating is 100% re-pulpable, making it possible to recycle cheaply. The substrate is waterproof, resistant to oil and grease, and offers an exciting new alternative to traditional food packaging materials.
EcoShield Barrier Coating vs other papers
When it comes to printing, it's important to consider all the properties of a new substrate. Papers coated with EcoShield Barrier Coating behave differently to other papers. They are stronger and more durable, less likely to tear or burst, and they are significantly smoother.
These differences will not only affect the way that coated papers behave when used in packaging; they also play a part in the printing process. Printing machinery must be capable of working with this new material. If not, it can lead to at best a poor quality finish, and at worst, a ruined product, wastage, and costly consequences.
Printing with emerging substrates
EcoShield Barrier Coating may be the new kid on the block now, but more substrates are likely to emerge in the near future. To accommodate them, use a responsive flexographic printing press. Flexography is a versatile, cost-effective printing method that can be used for medium to high volume loads.
One of the biggest strengths of modern flexographic machines is their versatility. A flexographic machine is adaptable to various substrates, label formats and designs. Flexographic printing presses offer an innovative solution for forward-thinking printing service companies. Not only are they capable of working with new moisture barrier coatings, they can be adapted to accommodate more emerging substrates as they appear. This means that, by investing in a new-model flexographic or hybrid machine, you'll be investing in your company's future.
Flexographic printing for your business
Want to learn more about contemporary trends in flexographic printing? Our Guide to Flexographic Printing, downloadable for free by clicking [here], will tell you everything you need to know. If you still have questions, feel free to get in touch with Focus Label. With over 30 years' experience in the British printing industry, we're confident that we can help you.
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