The main advantage of the use of waterless printing for food packaging is the complete elimination of fount solution. Non-volatile substances contained in fount solutions can remain within absorbent packaging boards or on the surface of non-absorbent substrates. These substances may migrate to the food. It is assumed that permissible migration levels for particular substances are similar to those applied to printing inks. 

 

All the photo-initiators used in Sahara Classicure PS and Nevada Classicure LA process and basic colours are listed in Group 1A of the EuPIA list of photo-initiators for Low Migration UV Printing Inks and Varnishes.

 

All other raw materials are listed by the EuPIA in the Inventory List – Version January 2011 – Comprising of packaging ink raw materials applied to the non-food contact surface of food packaging.

 

Clients who wish to use our inks on the non-contact surface of food packaging should declare their intentions to us in writing, informing us of the type of food to be packaged, the substrate to be printed, and any information regarding the use of materials that are expected to prevent migration of substances from the ink to the food. We can then take appropriate steps to ensure that all necessary procedures are in place for manufacture and supply of the inks required. It will be necessary to enter into a non-disclosure agreement if sensitive information is to pass between ourselves and the client.

 

After curing is complete our Sahara Classicure PS and Nevada Classicure LA inks have minimal odour. However we recommend that Odour and Taint assessments should be carried out by the printer or the food manufacturer, using agreed procedures, prior to commercial print production.

 

The final measurement of migration compliance is the responsibility of the printer in line with recognised converters’ good manufacturing practices.

 

It should be noted that packaging ink manufacturers are not in a position to issue certificates or declarations of compliance which cover all the legal responsibility of the entire packaging chain.

 

We do not manufacture or supply inks that are to be in direct contact with the food.

We do not currently offer a Low Migration Certificate for any of our Sahara or Nevada Classicure inks.