Markem Unveils New Black Ink for Beverage Packaging

Markem has launched a new black ink specially formulated for the beverage packaging industry. This innovative ink offers enhanced durability, fast drying times, and superior adhesion on various substrates, ensuring high-quality and long-lasting prints. It is designed to meet the strict regulatory and environmental standards of the beverage sector. The new product demonstrates Markem’s commitment to providing cutting-edge, reliable coding and marking solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the packaging industry.

Markem-Imaje has introduced an advanced black MEK ink called MB2253, tailored to meet the demanding requirements of the beverage industry. This newly developed ink reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering cutting-edge coding solutions that prioritize safety, regulatory compliance, and performance. In line with the stringent standards of the beverage sector, MB2253 has been meticulously engineered to align with both producer and consumer expectations, particularly in areas concerning health, safety, and operational efficiency.

The development of MB2253 reflects an understanding of the challenges beverage manufacturers face, especially when it comes to maintaining print clarity and durability in tough production conditions. Whether it’s labeling a plastic water bottle, printing on a metal can, coding a glass juice bottle, or applying markings to returnable glass containers, MB2253 offers consistent, reliable results. Its strong adhesion capabilities enable the ink to bond effectively with a wide range of materials commonly used in beverage packaging. This makes it a versatile solution for companies that operate across various packaging lines or produce multiple types of drinks.

What truly distinguishes this ink from others in its category is its exceptional resistance to environmental stressors. Beverage packaging often undergoes extreme temperature variations, condensation, and frequent contact with water, especially in cold fill environments or ice-chilled storage. MB2253 is designed to thrive under such conditions. It can maintain code readability and structural integrity even when exposed to severe cold and immersion in water. This resistance makes it an ideal solution for products that are distributed through refrigerated or returnable systems, where standard inks might fail to endure.

An outstanding benefit of MB2253 lies in its alkali solubility, which is particularly important for returnable glass bottle systems. These systems typically involve washing and sterilization processes using alkaline solutions. Traditional inks may be difficult to remove or may degrade poorly in such environments, leaving behind residues or illegible markings. In contrast, MB2253 can be effectively washed off during the cleaning process, enabling the bottles to be reused without compromising hygiene or aesthetic standards. At the same time, it ensures durability during the bottle’s usable life, balancing permanence and removability, a crucial need in circular packaging systems.

Water resistance is another key feature of this ink. Beverage containers are frequently exposed to moisture, whether during filling, labeling, transportation, or end-use. MB2253’s water-resistant properties guarantee that the printed codes remain legible and intact even after prolonged exposure to wet environments. This enhances traceability and reduces the risk of coding errors or product recalls due to unreadable labels. Manufacturers can confidently rely on MB2253 to deliver high-quality prints that withstand the rigors of real-world conditions.

In addition to performance, MB2253 is developed with a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance and food safety. Since the ink is used on packaging that comes into close proximity with consumable products, it adheres to indirect food contact regulations. This compliance ensures that even if the ink is printed on the exterior of bottles or containers, there is no risk of contamination affecting the contents inside. This adherence to regulatory norms not only protects consumers but also shields beverage companies from liability issues and supports brand integrity.

Furthermore, MB2253 is produced in a facility that meets the highest standards of manufacturing excellence. The ink is formulated and manufactured in a Grade A facility certified under the BRC Global Standard, a leading safety and quality certification used worldwide. This certification underlines Markem-Imaje’s dedication to delivering consistent, high-quality products that meet both customer expectations and regulatory obligations. Every batch of MB2253 is created under tightly controlled conditions to ensure reliability, consistency, and safety in every use.

Another hallmark of this ink is its alignment with the EuPIA Guideline, which governs printing inks used on non-food contact surfaces of food packaging. The EuPIA framework provides stringent criteria for the formulation and use of inks in packaging applications, focusing on minimizing contamination risks and ensuring consumer safety. By conforming to these guidelines, MB2253 assures producers and packagers that the ink meets European safety standards while maintaining excellent performance across packaging substrates.

From a practical standpoint, MB2253 is engineered to meet both the operational needs of manufacturers and the evolving demands of the market. As sustainability and packaging recyclability become central to corporate strategies, especially in the food and beverage sectors, solutions like MB2253 enable manufacturers to meet these goals without sacrificing quality. Its compatibility with returnable systems, coupled with its easy removability during bottle washing, positions it as a valuable component in sustainable packaging loops.

Moreover, the ink’s formulation helps reduce downtime and maintenance issues on production lines. Its stable composition and performance reduce smudging, nozzle clogging, and printhead wear, common problems that can lead to inefficiencies in high-speed beverage manufacturing. This operational reliability translates into better line productivity, cost savings, and minimal waste, contributing to a leaner and more sustainable production model.

MB2253 also responds to the growing demand for packaging transparency and product traceability. In a global supply chain where recalls and counterfeit products are costly and damaging, having a durable, legible, and consistent coding solution is essential. MB2253 ensures that every can, bottle, or carton can be traced throughout its journey, from factory to shelf to consumer, boosting accountability and enabling efficient tracking for quality control and regulatory compliance.

In summary, Markem-Imaje’s MB2253 black MEK ink stands as a comprehensive solution for the modern beverage industry. It blends durability, washability, and regulatory compliance into a single product that caters to diverse packaging needs and sustainability goals. With its ability to perform in cold, wet, and high-speed environments, MB2253 redefines what manufacturers can expect from an industrial ink. It not only protects consumer interests but also supports the operational efficiency and brand reputation of beverage companies navigating a complex and competitive global market.

By addressing both environmental conditions and regulatory requirements, this ink enhances packaging performance while ensuring long-term reliability and safety. Markem-Imaje’s development of MB2253 reflects a forward-thinking approach to industrial printing, one that recognizes the intricate balance between innovation, safety, sustainability, and quality assurance. As the beverage sector continues to evolve, solutions like MB2253 will play a vital role in helping businesses stay compliant, efficient, and competitive.

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Source: FNB‍