How to Select the Best Inkjet Printer for Food Packaging Coding

Why Coding on Food Packaging is Essential

Food packaging requires clear, permanent markings—including production dates, batch numbers, and expiration dates—to ensure traceability and consumer safety. When food safety incidents occur, these codes help quickly identify affected batches, streamline recalls, and maintain supply chain accountability.

Whether using inkjet printers, laser coders, or traditional marking methods, proper coding ensures compliance with regulations and builds consumer trust.

Inkjet vs. Laser Coding: Which is Best for Your Packaging?

1. Traditional Inkjet Printers

1. 1. • Small Character Inkjet Printers – Ideal for high-speed production lines.

      • High-Resolution Inkjet Printers – Deliver crisp text and barcodes.

      • Thermal Transfer Printers – Best for flexible packaging.

2. Laser Coding Technology (Rising Popularity)

1. • No Ink Consumables – Lower long-term costs.
   • Permanent Marking – Resistant to smudging or fading.
   • High-Speed & Reliable – Minimal maintenance required.

Choosing the Right Coder Based on Packaging Material

Different packaging materials require specific laser wavelengths for optimal coding:

Plastic & Metalized Films

• Fiber Laser Coders – Best for metallic coatings & painted surfaces.

• UV Laser Coders – Provide high-precision, low-heat marking for delicate films.

Paper & Film-Coated Bags

• CO2 Laser (10.3µm wavelength) – Works well on coated paper & labels.

• Green Laser (532nm wavelength) – Delivers sharp, high-contrast codes.

Aluminum & Aluminum-Plastic Bags

• CO2 Laser – Etches away surface coatings for clear, permanent marks.

• Fiber Laser – Better for high-metal-content packaging.

Key Benefits of Modern Laser Coding

1. Eco-Friendly – No ink waste or VOC emissions.
2. High-Speed Performance – Keeps up with fast production lines.
3. Versatile Marking – Works on plastic, paper, metal & more.
4. Crisp, Legible Codes – Ensures scannable barcodes & dates.

Need a Custom Coding Solution?

HHZPACK offers tailored packaging & printing solutions—whether you need inkjet, laser, or hybrid systems.

📌 Tell us your requirements:

• Packaging material (plastic, paper, metal, etc.)

• Production speed & coding content

• Desired print quality (high-res, permanent, etc.)

Get the perfect coder for your food packaging today!