Laser Marking Systems / Laser Markers
Laser Marking in the Food and Pharmaceutical Industry
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Tags:
- Laser Labeling , Laser Marking , Wood
From laser-engraved food to medicinal packaging, laser marking technology is quickly becoming the preferred method of marking products in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Laser markers offer these industries a range of benefits, including:
- High-resolution text, graphics, and logos
- Clear marking on nonporous surfaces
- Cost savings from reduced waste or rework due to improved accuracy
- Durability that stands up to harsh conditions like extreme temperatures or exposure to chemicals
In addition, laser markers can be used for serialization, the process of adding unique identifiers to individual packages, which is becoming a common requirement in many countries as part of traceability initiatives. Serializing items helps ensure that all products meet safety standards before they reach consumers. In some cases, this serialization must be applied directly onto the product packaging itself, which makes laser markers even more desirable because they can mark on an immense range of materials and often without damaging it or changing its characteristics.
Another advantage of laser marking for the food and pharmaceutical industry is the flexibility when it comes to labeling requirements. With a simple software adjustment, you can easily switch between different codes (e.g., expiration dates or batch numbers) or change the size or font of your labels without having to buy additional equipment. Laser marker software also allows you to adjust the power settings depending on your application needs. This ensures that your labels are durable yet easy to read, even if they’re exposed to environmental conditions like sunlight or moisture.
Why Laser Marking is Essential for Food and Pharmaceutical Safety
As regulations and consumer demands become more strict with time—and rightfully so—laser marking technology is more important than ever. Although more manual marking systems are still in use, many can’t deliver the operational efficiency to keep up with modern demands.
By integrating laser marking for the food and pharmaceutical industry, manufacturers can deliver consistent labeling that can’t be modified or erased. Moreover, the non-contact approach of laser-engraved food packaging means no harmful substances are produced in the process. This helps to guarantee consumer health and remain aligned with current regulations.
Aside from regulations and surface-level consumer safety, the technology also helps to prevent the production of counterfeit products. While consumer safety is understandably a focal point, it isn't the only advantage of food and medical laser marking.
Advantages of Laser Marking Over Traditional Methods
The conversation surrounding the advantages of laser marking compared to traditional methods is complex. To help summarize the most important details, the table below provides direct comparisons between these processes.
| Comparison | Laser Marking | Traditional Marking |
|---|---|---|
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Comparison
Efficiency
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Laser Marking
Faster setup, changeover, and output leading to increased productivity.
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Traditional Marking
A more manual approach that leads to more time-consuming production and changeover.
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Comparison
Material Compatibility
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Laser Marking
Works with numerous materials from cardboards, plastics, films, and much more.
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Traditional Marking
It focuses on organic materials such as paper, wood, and glass.
|
|
Comparison
Durability
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Laser Marking
Marks are guaranteed to offer permanency, even for the long term and in essentially any environmental condition.
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Traditional Marking
Marking can fade over time, wear due to the environment, or smudge due to contact soon after marking.
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Comparison
Maintenance
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Laser Marking
Requires virtually zero maintenance, primarily due to its non-contact approach to marking.
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Traditional Marking
More frequent maintenance requirements due to the wear and tear of mechanical parts or replacing of consumables.
|
It is evident that laser marking for food and pharmaceutical industry products will inevitably be more reliant on laser marking. This isn’t to say that traditional marking technology will disappear, but it surely isn’t the preference anymore. Moreover, laser marking systems offer more options, as there are several unique designs that manufacturers can choose from.
Types of Laser Marking Machines for the Food and Pharmaceutical Industry
Thanks to the adaptable nature of laser marking food and pharmaceutical products, there are several popular designs businesses can utilize. Since both industries deal with a decent variety of materials among their products, versatility is important.
This alone makes a hybrid laser marker one of the best options available. It delivers the best of both worlds between two laser mediums, giving manufactures the ability and versatility to use the same laser for different materials and products.
Another notable mention is the UV laser marker, as it is great for plastics, ceramics, glass, and more. Regardless of the exact products involved, laser marking is the most effective marking technology in modern times. As easy as it sounds, manufacturers also need to consider what implementation might look like.
Implementing Laser Technology for Food and Pharmaceutical Products
Although consumers, regulations, and competition are demanding change, implementing laser marking technology will take some time. Many manufacturers are still using older methods or a blend of the technologies for a smoother transition. Laser marking for pharmaceutical industry products will benefit businesses and consumers, and the same goes for the food sector.
The truth is that laser marking in the food industry and pharmaceuticals is headed in the right direction. At this point, both industries are still going through a transitional phase on a global scale. Once more decision-makers become educated on the benefits of laser marking in the medical industry, it won’t take much longer before it becomes the new norm.
Overall, laser-engraved food packaging and pharmaceutical products benefit everyone involved. From the health of the consumers to the competitive edge of the manufacturer, everyone wins with higher-quality food and medical laser marking.
Direct Part Marking in the Food and Pharmaceutical Industry
The food and pharmaceutical industries are facing a critical challenge as the regulations for labeling consumer products continue to become more stringent. In addition to traditional markings such as expiration date, place of origin, ingredients, and distribution codes, manufacturers now need to serialize every package sent out to comply with regulatory authorities. This has created a surge in demand for multi-purpose laser markers and direct part marking for laser-engraving food and pharmaceutical packaging.
Here are just a few common parts that are marked due to the laser’s cost and efficiency:
Drink bottles
Because laser markers do not puncture PET plastic drink bottles, adding markings has become less costly for manufacturers.
Cartons
Capsules
From vitamins and medicines, capsules are commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry. Laser markers can easily add a name or text to various capsule types without the pressure that stamping equipment uses.
Laser markers will continue to provide food and pharmaceutical manufacturers with an efficient way to meet new labeling regulations. The correct laser marking machines will also reduce the costs associated with waste and rework due to inaccurate labeling. With their flexibility and ability to mark on any surface without damaging it, laser markers make it easy for manufacturers to produce high-quality products that meet safety standards while still meeting customer demands quickly and accurately.
With so many advantages over traditional methods of marking products, it’s evident why so many manufacturers are turning towards this technology as an efficient solution for their food and pharmaceutical manufacturing processes. If you have any pressing questions about laser marking for the food and pharmaceutical industry, contact us for all the expert guidance you might need.
FAQs about Laser Marking for Food and Pharmaceutical Industry
What are the different types of laser marking applications for food/pharma packaging?
Laser markers are often used to mark lot and date codes, expiration dates, logos and graphics, tamper evidence seals, and 1D/2D codes.
What is driving the increase of laser marking in the food and package industry?
Despite sometimes higher entry costs for laser markers, the lack of consumables, maintenance, and downtime compared to standard marking methods have led to lucrative ROI opportunities.
Can you laser mark food?
Yes, foods can be laser marked, however, the industry standard is laser marking the packaging. New applications for laser marking are found every day, please contact your local KEYENCE representative if you would like to test an application.
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