How to Choose the Right Label Adhesive? Permanent, Hotmelt, or Deep-freeze?

Have you ever wondered why some labels stick perfectly, while others curl, peel off, or leave behind annoying sticky residue?

The answer lies in choosing the right label adhesive. A wrong choice can lead to additional costs, damaged packaging, and a poor user experience.

Regardless of whether you need labels for food products, cosmetics, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or transportation, the adhesive is what ensures functionality and durability. A label must withstand various conditions: from extreme temperatures and moisture to contact with uneven or smooth surfaces.

In this guide, we present the most common types of adhesives and their characteristics to help you choose the right solution for your labels.

Types of Label Adhesives and Their Properties

1. Permanent (Acrylic) Adhesive

• Properties: The most versatile and widespread adhesive, water-based, and eco-friendly.
• Suitable for: Smooth surfaces (paper, glass, plastic).
• Resistance: Withstands low temperatures down to -20 °C.
• Drawbacks: Not suitable for rough surfaces or very small labels.
• Ideal for: The food industry and general use.

2. Hotmelt Adhesive

• Properties: A permanent, rubber-based adhesive with an extremely strong initial tack.
• Extra Permanent (Hotmelt): An even stronger version, suitable for non-polar, uneven, or curved surfaces (e.g., HDPE packaging for cleaning products).
• Resistance: From -40 °C to +150 °C.
• Suitable for: Rough, uneven surfaces and more demanding applications.
• Ideal for: Chemicals, industrial products, and refrigerated conditions.

3. Deep-freeze Adhesive

• Properties: Developed specifically for already frozen products (down to -10 °C).
• Suitable for: Deep-frozen products (ice cream, meat, fish).
• Special Blend - Hotmelt Freeze: Combines the strength of hotmelt adhesive with resistance to low temperatures. Ensures a reliable bond on both polar and non-polar surfaces.
• Ideal for: The food industry and frozen product logistics.

4. Removable Adhesive

• Properties: Allows for easy removal of the label without damaging the surface or leaving residue.
• Suitable for: Glassware, gifts, promotional items, temporary marking.
• Ideal for: Labels that the customer will remove themselves.

5. Wash-off Adhesive

• Properties: Specially developed for returnable packaging, primarily bottles.
• Suitable for: Beverages in returnable glass bottles (beer, wine, mineral water).
• Ideal for: A sustainable solution for reusable bottles.

Why Is Adhesive Testing Essential?

Every surface and application is unique. The choice of adhesive is influenced by:

• the surface (smooth, rough, glass, plastic),
• usage conditions (cold, heat, moisture),
• the label's lifespan.

Therefore, it is recommended to perform an adhesion test before a larger production run. This ensures the label performs flawlessly and helps you avoid returns and complaints.

Conclusion

Choosing the right label adhesive is just as important as selecting the label material or the graphic design itself.

Although standard solutions exist, every application is specific: from a wine glass to a frozen package of fish. By understanding the properties of adhesives, you will save on costs, improve the user experience, and extend the lifespan of your packaging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What does permanent adhesive mean? Permanent adhesive is intended for permanent use; the label cannot be removed without damaging the surface. It is most commonly used in the food industry and for general packaging.
2. What is the difference between hotmelt and acrylic adhesive? Acrylic adhesive is water-based and suitable for smooth surfaces. Hotmelt adhesive is rubber-based, has a stronger initial tack, and is more suitable for uneven surfaces and extreme conditions.
3. When should I use deep-freeze adhesive? Deep-freeze adhesive is the best choice when applying the label to already frozen products (e.g., ice cream, meat, fish).
4. Do removable labels really come off completely? Yes, removable adhesive allows the label to be peeled off without damaging the surface and without leaving sticky residue.
5. Why is wash-off adhesive used in brewing? Because it allows for easy removal of labels during the washing of returnable bottles, which supports sustainability and the reuse of packaging.
6. How do I choose the right adhesive for my product? First, consider the surface, temperature, and usage conditions. If you are unsure, we recommend testing a small sample.
7. Where can I see the price of labels based on different adhesives? Label prices vary depending on the quantity, material, and different finishing options. That's why we have a quick and easy calculator on our website where you can calculate the price yourself. Click here to calculate your label price!

Alja F.