Sun Chemical launched the AquaHeat platform, a new generation of food-safe, bio-based printing inks. The new inks enable full-color printing for high-temperature food applications, unlocking commercial baking and food-service packaging opportunities previously not possible, while supporting sustainability, productivity, and regulatory confidence.

While prioritizing safety, AquaHeat delivers robust performance for high-speed printing. The inks are printable like standard water-based inks using rotogravure or flexographic processes, allowing them to integrate into existing productions.

Formulated with food-safe ingredients, the AquaHeat range of inks has been tested at temperatures of up to 220° C. All components, including pigments, have been carefully selected for their suitability at high temperatures and for safe migration levels in near-food applications. 

The AquaHeat ink range is engineered for optimal sustainability and enhanced protection. The inks are made with up-to 60% bio-renewable content, receiving the “2024 Sustainable Innovation Award” from the British Coatings Federation. 

The inks support the production of materials that comply with all relevant EU regulations. 

They can be combined with Sun Chemical’s recommended non-self-supported liquid functional coatings with optional heat-sealing capabilities for a turnkey solution that enables recyclable paper and board packaging in applications reaching up to traditional oven temperatures.

Eric Dejean, Product Director, Product Manager, Water-based Products, Europe, Sun Chemical, commented, “Brand owners and food packaging manufacturers have long sought to design unique packaging that can carry processed food products through their entire lifecycle while maintaining safety and visual appeal… AquaHeat exemplifies our commitment to delivering transformative innovations that address market challenges and help our customers “Experience.Transformation.”