Introduction:
In today’s high-stakes food and pharmaceutical sectors, traceability is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s a strategy for consumer safety, brand integrity, and operational excellence. Enter Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) printing: a smart, clean, and efficient coding solution for modern manufacturing lines.
🧠 What Is Thermal Inkjet Printing?
Thermal Inkjet technology uses heat to propel tiny droplets of ink onto packaging surfaces. Unlike Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) systems, which require solvent-based inks, TIJ systems utilize sealed cartridges—reducing VOC emissions and simplifying maintenance.
🍞 Applications in Food Manufacturing
- Print expiry dates, lot numbers, and barcodes on primary and secondary packaging
- Seamless integration into high-speed lines for dairy, snacks, frozen foods, and beverages
- Reliable printing on porous and non-porous substrates (with solvent or water-based inks)
- Supports FSMA compliance through accurate traceability and recall readiness
💊 Applications in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
- Serialization and coding for track-and-trace compliance (e.g., DSCSA, EU FMD)
- High-resolution 2D barcodes (Data Matrix codes) for authentication
- Cleanroom compatible—no leaking fluids or exposed ink systems
- Ensures batch-level and unit-level tracking for patient safety
⚙️ Key Benefits of TIJ for Regulated Industries
| Feature | Benefit |
| High Resolution (up to 600 dpi) | Accurate barcodes & crisp text |
| Maintenance-Free | No downtime, no flushing, no manual cleaning |
| Cartridge-Based Printing | Quick ink changes, no contamination risks |
| Environmentally Friendly | Low VOCs, energy-efficient, safer for operators |
📦 Food + Pharma = TIJ Wins
Whether you’re coding a yogurt lid or a blister pack, TIJ offers unmatched versatility and precision—while supporting your regulatory, environmental, and productivity goals.
Conclusion:
TIJ isn’t just a print solution—it’s a traceability enabler. In a world where every product needs a digital identity, Thermal Inkjet is the smart foundation for secure, visible, and compliant supply chains.
👉 Ready to explore what TIJ can do for your operation? Contact us for a tailored consultation.