Print PPWR-related information directly on packaging
Print product type, batch, and manufacturer information, as well as barcodes or QR codes, directly onto suitable packaging—without the need for an additional label.
With direct printing, the ink is applied directly to the existing packaging surface. Unlike with an adhesive label, no separate packaging element is created. For selected REINER inks, statements regarding substance restrictions in accordance with Article 5 of the PPWR are also available. This allows variable markings to be applied directly to suitable packaging, with technical documentation to support the process. Whether the finished, printed packaging meets the respective PPWR requirements must be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
What does the PPWR mean for labels?
Overview of Requirements
The PPWR does not prohibit labels. However, it views packaging as a holistic system. An adhesive label is considered an additional packaging element and introduces further materials—such as label stock, adhesive, and printing ink—into the assessment.
With direct printing, this separate packaging element is eliminated: variable information is printed directly onto the existing packaging surface. Factors to consider include the packaging, the ink used, and the specific print image.
Typical requirements
- Coordinate packaging, labels, and recycling streams
- Consider the label material, adhesive, and ink
- Evaluate possible coatings and separability
- Consolidate supplier, material, and compliance data
- Document different packaging options
Typical challenges
- Additional materials and material combinations
- Liner material as an additional waste stream
- More reconciliations and required supporting documentation
- Inventory Management for Different Label Variants
- Positioning, peeling, and sticking as additional steps
What information can be printed directly on packaging?
Use cases from practice
Model, Lot, and Serial Numbers
Print variable identification data directly onto packaging—flexibly tailored to the product, batch, or production order.
Product and Producer Information
Integrate manufacturer, contact, and product information directly into the print layout.
Material Labeling and Sorting Instructions
Print material information, symbols, and sorting instructions on appropriate packaging, provided they are intended for that specific packaging.
Barcodes, QR codes, and digital information
Apply machine-readable codes directly to products for identification, traceability, or additional digital information.
Direct printing instead of labels: fewer additional packaging components
A Comparison of Direct Printing Methods
An adhesive label introduces additional materials, such as label stock and adhesive, into the packaging. With direct printing, the information is printed directly onto the existing packaging surface. This eliminates the need for a separate label. The packaging material, ink used, ink application, and the required print image must still be verified. Direct printing does not replace every label. It is particularly suitable in cases where a label primarily carries variable information and does not serve any additional function, such as sealing, a security feature, or large-scale product design.
Labeling System
Direct printing with REINER
separate label
Printing Directly onto Existing Packaging
Label Material and Adhesive
No separate label material
Liner material available
No label liner
additional material combination
fewer additional components
Variations Based on Different Labels
Print content can be customized digitally
Check the label and packaging
Check the packaging, ink, and print quality
What Must Be Verified for PPWR-Related Direct Marking
For reliable print results
Whether direct printing is suitable for a particular type of packaging does not depend solely on the labeling device. The key factor is the interaction between the packaging material, surface, ink, print image, and specific application.
Relevant PPWR Aspects
- Article 5 – Substance Restrictions: Requirements for Substances in Packaging and Packaging Components
- Article 12 – Labeling of Packaging: Requirements for Labeling and Sorting Information
- Article 15 – Obligations of Producers: Requirements for Identification and Producer Information
Source: Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on Packaging and Packaging Waste (PPWR), EUR-Lex
Certified REINER Inks
For black inkjet inks S3-BK, MP3-BK, and MP4-BK as well as for the yellow inkjet ink MP6-YE REINER has issued statements regarding the substance restrictions set forth in Article 5 of Regulation (EU) 2025/40.
These statements support the documentation of the ink used. However, they do not replace an evaluation of the fully printed packaging.
Relevant Test Criteria
- Packaging Material and Surface
- ink used
- Ink Application
- Adhesion and Durability
- Contrast and Readability
- Scanability of Barcodes and QR Codes
- Size and Position of the Printed Image
- Wipe and Abrasion Resistance
- Storage and Shipping Conditions
- industry-specific requirements, if applicable
A test print on your original material will show whether the packaging, ink, and print image are technically compatible.
Real-world example: variable data without an additional label
From the field
A shipping carton needs to be labeled with varying lot numbers, product information, and barcodes. Instead of first printing this data on a separate label, it can be applied directly to a suitable surface on the carton using a mobile jetStamp®.
result
- No separate label material is required for this information
- No label liner
- Variable print data can be flexibly customized
- Barcode and batch information in a single print image
- Labeling directly at the packaging station
Direct printing simplifies processes when variable information is printed without additional
can be applied to a packaging component.
We determine whether direct printing is suitable for a particular type of packaging by testing the original material, ink, and desired print design.
Suitable mobile devices for direct labeling
Our solution
jetStamp® 1025
For larger print images
For more detailed labeling that includes text, batch data, barcodes, QR codes, and graphics.
jetStamp® 1025 sense
For scan-based processes
For changing jobs and print data that are retrieved or assigned via barcode scan.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ
Does direct printing result in an additional packaging component?
In direct printing, the ink is applied directly to the existing packaging material. No separate packaging element, such as a label, is created. Nevertheless, the ink application must be taken into account in the overall evaluation of the packaging.
Are labels prohibited under the PPWR?
No. The PPWR does not prohibit labels in general. However, as a separate packaging component, they must be considered in conjunction with the packaging, the materials used, and the intended recycling process. Where a label contains only information, direct printing may be an alternative.
Which labels can be replaced by direct printing?
Direct printing is particularly well-suited for variable information such as batch numbers, best-by dates, serial numbers, barcodes, or logistics details. Labels with additional functions—such as those used as closures or security features—cannot be easily replaced.
Which REINER inks are documented for PPWR-related packaging labels?
For black inkjet inks S3-BK and MP4-BK REINER has issued statements regarding the substance restrictions under Article 5 of Regulation (EU) 2025/40. The scope of each test is documented in the statement. Whether the ink is suitable for a specific packaging surface should also be verified by means of a test print.
Is packaging printed with REINER inks automatically PPWR-compliant?
No. These statements refer to the ink used and do not replace an assessment of the fully printed packaging. To ensure compliance with the PPWR, the relevant requirements for packaging, labeling, and use must be taken into account and documented.
Which types of packaging can be printed on directly?
Depending on the surface and the ink used, materials such as cardboard, paper, select plastics, and films can be printed on. A test print should be performed on the actual material before use.
Does direct printing result in an additional packaging component?
In direct printing, the ink is applied directly to the existing packaging material. No separate packaging element, such as a label, is created. Nevertheless, the ink application must be taken into account in the overall evaluation of the packaging.
Are labels prohibited under the PPWR?
No. The PPWR does not prohibit labels in general. However, as a separate packaging component, they must be considered in conjunction with the packaging, the materials used, and the intended recycling process. Where a label contains only information, direct printing may be an alternative.
Which labels can be replaced by direct printing?
Direct printing is particularly well-suited for variable information such as batch numbers, best-by dates, serial numbers, barcodes, or logistics details. Labels with additional functions—such as those used as closures or security features—cannot be easily replaced.
Which REINER inks are documented for PPWR-related packaging labels?
For black inkjet inks S3-BK and MP4-BK REINER has issued statements regarding the substance restrictions under Article 5 of Regulation (EU) 2025/40. The scope of each test is documented in the statement. Whether the ink is suitable for a specific packaging surface should also be verified by means of a test print.
Is packaging printed with REINER inks automatically PPWR-compliant?
No. These statements refer to the ink used and do not replace an assessment of the fully printed packaging. To ensure compliance with the PPWR, the relevant requirements for packaging, labeling, and use must be taken into account and documented.
Which types of packaging can be printed on directly?
Depending on the surface and the ink used, materials such as cardboard, paper, select plastics, and films can be printed on. A test print should be performed on the actual material before use.
Suitable materials for this application
Suitable Surfaces
Whether packaging can be printed on directly depends on the surface, the ink used, and the requirements for the printed image. We’ll determine the appropriate combination by performing a test print on your original material.
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