In the dynamic realm of food and beverage manufacturing, efficient and accurate product coding is essential yet often challenging. The industry's fast-paced production lines, coupled with the increasing demand for variable content and small-batch productions, create a complex environment for online product coding operations. Moreover, the prevalence of condensation on packaging surfaces, resulting from temperature fluctuations during filling, shipping, and other stages of the product lifecycle, poses significant hurdles for manufacturers striving to maintain legible and durable codes on their products.

Videojet Technologies, a global leader in coding, marking, and printing solutions, recognizes the unique pain points faced by food and beverage manufacturers. The company offers innovative printing and marking solutions tailored to overcome these challenges and ensure seamless operations throughout the production and distribution processes.

Continuous inkjet (CIJ) printers have emerged as a preferred choice for many food and beverage companies seeking accurate and trackable codes that can withstand the rigors of the production and distribution environments. These printers utilize individual drops of ink to create characters, offering flexibility and reliability for printing expiration dates, lot numbers, and other crucial information on various packaging substrates. With advancements in CIJ printer design, newer models are specifically engineered to operate effectively in wet and humid environments, making them ideal for food and beverage production facilities where condensation is a common occurrence.

Selecting the right ink is paramount to achieving optimal printing results. Videojet's CIJ inks are formulated to penetrate condensation and resist smudging, ensuring clear and durable codes that adhere to regulatory standards. These specially formulated inks not only enhance printing performance but also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and eliminating carcinogens, mutagens, or reproductive toxins commonly found in older ink formulations.

Alternatively, laser marking presents a compelling solution for manufacturers seeking permanent and high-quality codes that offer inherent counterfeit protection. Laser codes are ideal for both internal and external supply chain tracking, meeting regulatory requirements, and enhancing consumer confidence. Depending on factors such as packaging substrate and line speed, CO2, UV, or fiber lasers can be employed to mark products coated with condensation, providing versatility and reliability in challenging production environments.

While both inkjet printing and laser marking technologies offer distinct advantages, selecting the appropriate solution depends on specific application requirements and environmental conditions. Videojet's comprehensive range of printing and marking solutions, combined with their expertise in the food and beverage industry, ensures that manufacturers can effectively address condensation challenges while maintaining efficiency and compliance throughout the supply chain.

Heidi Wright, Senior Director of Field Product Marketing and Business Development at Videojet, emphasizes the importance of continuous inkjet printers and lasers in meeting the industry's demands for speed, reliability, and adaptability. These technologies not only streamline production processes but also uphold the highest standards of code clarity, resolution, and adhesion, essential for ensuring product integrity and consumer safety.

As a trusted partner to the food and beverage industry, Videojet remains committed to providing cutting-edge solutions that empower manufacturers to optimize productivity, protect their brands, and stay ahead of industry trends and regulations. Through a combination of innovative technologies, application-specific expertise, and unparalleled customer support, Videojet enables food and beverage manufacturers to overcome condensation challenges and drive sustainable growth in a competitive market landscape.

About Videojet Technologies

Videojet Technologies is a global leader in the product identification market, specializing in in-line printing, coding, and marking solutions for a wide range of industries. With a mission to partner with customers to improve productivity, protect brands, and stay ahead of industry trends, Videojet offers a comprehensive portfolio of printing and marking products, application-specific fluids, and product life cycle services. With over 400,000 printers installed worldwide and a network of direct operations and distributors spanning 135 countries, Videojet is trusted by customers to deliver reliable and innovative solutions that drive business success.