Food-Grade Plastic Containers – Fully Printed with In-Mold Labeling for a Premium Look
What Is In-Mold Labeling?
Have you ever noticed colorful graphics on bottles and containers that look as if they’re printed directly on the surface? That’s the result of In-Mold Labeling (IML), a technique that integrates labels into the plastic container itself during the molding process.
IML (In-Mold Labeling) begins with printing a customized film label designed to fit the container. Using a specialized injection molding machine, the pre-printed label is placed inside the mold before the plastic is injected. Since the ink is sealed within the film, IML is ideal for food-grade packaging. The process is typically done in a cleanroom environment to minimize human contact, ensuring hygiene and safety. The label fuses with the container during molding, becoming part of the surface—seamless, vibrant, and long-lasting. Available finishes include glossy, matte, and metallic effects, offering limitless design possibilities and enhanced shelf appeal. IML also eliminates the need for secondary decoration, making it cost-effective and eco-friendly.
How IML Works
Before injection begins, the mold opens and a robotic arm inserts the printed label into the correct position inside the mold cavity. The label’s printed side faces inward and is held firmly in place via vacuum suction holes. Simultaneously, the plastic material is heated and extruded into a tube-like shape. The mold then clamps shut, and air is blown into the mold, pressing the plastic against the mold wall. The high temperature causes the label’s backing film to melt and bond with the plastic, creating a unified structure. Once the mold opens, the final container emerges—fully formed with the label fused seamlessly into its surface. The result: a beautifully printed product without any visible edges, as if the design was printed directly on the container.
Advantages of In-Mold Labeling
Enhances brand protection with built-in anti-counterfeiting features.
Supports premium effects like laser or metallic finishes for a high-end appearance.
Durable, waterproof, oil-resistant, mold-resistant, and scratch-resistant.
Improves product hygiene and safety by eliminating secondary labeling processes.
More cost-effective and eco-friendly compared to traditional labels or screen printing.
Adds an anti-tampering effect thanks to its technical production requirements.
Fully recyclable with the container; no need to separate label before recycling, reducing secondary pollution.
Limitations of In-Mold Labeling
Requires specialized IML injection molding equipment. ((No worries! Foryung is fully equipped with advanced IML machinery.))
Demands professional printing capabilities. ((No worries! Foryung partners with trusted printing suppliers.))
IML Applications
Food and beverage packaging
Cooking oil, soy sauce, vinegar, and other condiments
Beauty and hair care product containers
Automotive fluids and chemical packaging
Pharmaceutical and nutritional supplement packaging
If you spot any issues or have OEM/ODM requirements, feel free to contact us. Let Foryung assist with your project.
