UV/EB inks seem to do it all, but will they ever become FDA-approved for direct food packaging?

By Missy Smith

“As it relates to UV offset inks, the newer ink technologies have a wider operating window, which allows UV offset printers to print using very high screens without having issues relative to water-balance. New UV offset inks are also being used for UV letterpress applications, which allows printers to satisfy both print technology needs while only having the inventory of one ink technology,” says Deanna Whelan, marketing manager, XSYS Print Solutions. “Specialty print techniques such as cold foils and holographic foils are used in conjunction with UV inks and the curing process on press; these effects provide new options for packaging designs and shelf appeal.”