Food date coding

Use-by date printers for food packaging lines

Choose an inkjet date coding setup that keeps your use-by date legible, correctly positioned and easy for operators to change.

Use-by date printers for food packaging lines
Inkjet coding requirement

Clear use-by date printing in production

Use-by date printing needs to be reliable because the code is often checked by customers, retailers and quality teams. Poor contrast, smudging or wrong positioning can cause avoidable rework.

Inkjet coders can apply use-by dates to labels, sleeves, cartons, trays, pouches, tubs and bottles, depending on material and presentation.

We look at line speed, cleaning routine, operator changeover and packaging material before recommending a system.

Legible dates

Match print height, contrast and ink to the pack.

Operator changeover

Make date changes simple and controlled for production staff.

Pack material

Select inks and technology for labels, films, plastic, card or sleeves.

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Compare options

Related inkjet coding machinery

Use these pages to compare the machinery and support that may suit your pack, line speed and code requirement.

Continuous inkjet coders (CIJ)

Continuous inkjet coders (CIJ)

Non-contact coding for fast moving bottles, cans, containers and flexible packs.

High speedDate & batchCurved packs
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Thermal inkjet printers (TIJ)

Thermal inkjet printers (TIJ)

High-resolution date, QR and barcode printing for cartons, labels, sleeves and trays.

High resolutionQR codesLow mess
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Large character inkjet coders

Large character inkjet coders

Variable print for boxes, outer cases, trays and secondary packaging.

CasesCartonsVariable text
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Inkjet coding selection guide

Inkjet coding selection guide

Compare coder type, speed, pack material, code size and integration requirements before you buy.

GuideSelectionSupport
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Questions before you buy

Common questions

Can inkjet printers print use-by dates?

Yes. Use-by dates are a common inkjet coding application on food and drink packaging.

How do I stop date codes smudging?

The printer, ink, drying time and print position must be matched to the pack material and handling process.

Can the printer add a batch code as well?

Yes. The message can normally include use-by date, batch number, lot code and other production references.

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