Labels for Produce and Growers

There’s a label on my apple. Is the glue on the label safe to eat? Labels for Produce must meet standards set by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The materials used to produce labels that will be applied to fresh fruits and vegetables, including the substrates, the inks and the adhesives. In fact, there are a number of factors, including FDA regulations, which must be taken into consideration when creating and manufacturing food safe labels.

Labels for produce need to be food-safe. One of the first things to consider when producing a food safe label is the type of produce onto which the label will be applied. According to the FDA, pressure-sensitive adhesives may be safely used as the food-contact surface of labels that are applied to food, if used in accordance with the certain prescribed conditions. These include using FDA approved direct food contact adhesives.

There are other conditions that must be taken into consideration when creating and printing food safe labels for produce. Some produce is picked in hot, dusty environments then washed, labeled, and put into a blast cooler. Thus the label must endure rapid changes in temperature. Other vegetables are harvested and processed in environments that are constantly wet. In addition to these factors, the type of adhesive used on the label will depend on whether it’s applied to a smooth apple or a coarse cantaloupe. Once you have applied, you must consider the conditions under which the produce will be stored and transported. Engineering the correct label construction to withstand these conditions and meet FDA requirements is critical.

Track and Trace Labels

Consumers want to know that the food they purchase is safe. In order to meet the demands of consumers, there are global initiatives that require the ability to trace produce through the supply chain. To help differentiate your product, build consumer trust and meet the needs of the global community, Adcraft Labels can develop a custom track and trace program for your produce. By integrating 2-D or QR codes on your labels and using mobile technology you and the consumer will be able to track the produce as it flows through the supply chain.

Labels for Nurseries and Wholesale Growers

The horticultural industry labels have unique requirements. Whether you’re a major retailer, independent garden center, or a wholesale grower you need label solutions with beautiful rich colors that hold up to extreme conditions. Labels for produce may include basket tags, plant stakes, wrap around and utility tags are exposed to all types of weather conditions including direct sunlight and constant watering. Weather resistant labels, inks and coating are a must.

Adcraft Labels’ graphic designers can create custom artwork for any size grower. We’ll integrate your logo and/or UPCs into a unique solution that will impress and educate the consumer. We can even create special Mother’s Day or other seasonal label and tag solutions. For more information about our labels for produce and growers, please email us or call 1-800-892-1051.