Hubergroup Print Solutions is expanding its water-based printing range with hydro-x contact, a modular system of inks and varnishes designed for direct food contact applications.
The company says the new system enables more design flexibility and visual impact on mono-material, recycling-friendly packaging including the inside surfaces of food packs.
The range is aimed at flexographic printing on central impression and stack presses, with integration into existing workflows described by hubergroup as “fast, efficient, and consistent”. It forms part of the wider hydro-x platform, and supports the shift from film-based to paper-based formats by removing the need for additional plastic barriers in some applications.
According to hubergroup, hydro-x contact can help reduce VOC emissions, promote recyclability, and enable simpler packaging structures. It can also be combined with the company’s other functional coatings, such as those providing barrier protection against grease, water, vapour and oxygen, or heat-seal properties.
Andre Garber, head of business development water based systems & UV coatings at hubergroup, said the product “combines food safety standards with practical advantages for printers, it is easy to process, with excellent colour appearance and reliable results”.
Alessandro Sabbatini, product manager hydro-x at hubergroup, added that it “opens up entirely new ways to differentiate products on the shelf and enhance the unboxing moment”.
The system will be showcased at Labelexpo Europe, stand 4D19, from 16 to 19 September.
