Glass bottles remain a popular choice for packaging across industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. They offer durability, a premium look, and excellent protection for the product inside. However, when it comes to traceability and compliance, manufacturers face one common challenge: batch coding on glass bottles.
Unlike porous materials such as cardboard or paper, glass is smooth, non-absorbent, and often exposed to challenging production environments. That makes it essential to choose the right coding technology and follow best practices to ensure clear, durable, and compliant markings.
Batch codes are more than just regulatory requirements - they are vital for:
Failing to achieve legible and lasting marks on glass bottles can result in compliance issues, production delays, or even reputational damage.
Printing on glass surfaces presents a unique set of obstacles:
Surface adhesion: Smooth and non-porous glass makes ink bonding more difficult
Environmental factors: Condensation, temperature variations, and handling can cause smudging or fading
Readability requirements: Codes must remain clear and easy to scan throughout the product’s life cycle
Overcoming these challenges starts with selecting the right coding technology.
There are several technologies available for batch coding on glass bottles, each with its strengths.
CIJ is a popular choice for high-speed production lines. It delivers fast, flexible, and cost-effective printing, with inks formulated specifically to adhere to glass surfaces.
Laser systems provide permanent, chemical-free marks directly on the glass. They are highly resistant to abrasion and ideal for long-term durability. Although initial investment is higher, running costs are low, and lasers support sustainability goals by eliminating consumables.
TIJ can be suitable for certain applications, particularly where high-resolution text or barcodes are required at lower speeds. Labels, meanwhile, offer flexibility but add material costs and may not be suitable for all environments.
Regardless of the technology chosen, following best practices ensures consistent results:
Regulations in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and food & beverage demand precise and durable batch codes. Expiry dates, batch numbers, and barcodes must remain legible throughout distribution and consumer use. By prioritising best practices in batch coding on glass bottles, manufacturers can ensure compliance while boosting consumer trust.
Technology continues to evolve, and the future of coding on glass packaging is being shaped by:
Sustainability: Growth in laser coding and reduced-solvent inks
Smart packaging: Integration of QR codes and digital traceability solutions for enhanced consumer engagement and supply chain transparency.
Clear, durable, and compliant batch codes on glass bottles are essential for meeting industry regulations and protecting brand reputation. By understanding the challenges, selecting the right technology, and applying proven best practices, manufacturers can ensure reliable results on every production run.
If you’re looking to optimise your coding processes, our team can recommend the best technology for your glass packaging requirements - helping you achieve efficiency, compliance, and lasting quality.
Contact us today to find out more.
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