Labeling regulations range from average to strict standards across the globe. In recent years, some coding and marking aspects have become tighter in some regions around the world. These restrictions relate to the coding and marking of ingredients, places of origins, expiration dates, batch codes, and the like. Laser engraving systems are the most common form of marking and coding in the food and pharmaceutical industry. Here are some examples of how laser marking is used in these industries.
Plastic Drink Bottles
PET bottles are commonly used in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. Therefore, they all fall under the marking and coding categories. At one time, PET bottles were marked using ink-jet printers, but because of the
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Labels used to be marked with rotating stamp machines, but today, laser marking is more efficient, faster, and precise for this application. Laser engraving/marking systems are more cost-effective over the old stamp machines because the stamp plates wear down over time or become more challenging to adjust in the stamping machine. The exact same fonts and styles of labels can be created using laser technology.
Carton Marking
Expiration dates, lot numbers, GS1 DataBars, and other codes are important for pharmaceutical products. Some products had to be permanently marked like EAN codes. Due to revisions in the law, variable texts or codes are necessary over permanently marked items. Laser tech has a special method that peels off the permanent paint and marks the appropriate variable data that helps with compliance.
Capsule Marking
Capsules that are commonly used in pharmaceuticals are required to marked with letters and numbers related to the drug and its special data. Before lasers, a heated stamp was used to mark capsules. Laser marking machines create the perfect, precision mark for capsules using the perfect pressure without having to deal with adjusting the pressure on a stamping machine. Laser engraving machines have the ability to produce solid and stable