The Critical Impact of Label Materials on Food Safety and Traceability

In the food industry, ensuring safety and maintaining traceability are essential—not just to meet regulatory demands but also to uphold consumer confidence. At Smith & McLaurin, we understand how label stock materials contribute significantly to both safety and transparency throughout the supply chain. Labels do more than just identify products; they are a crucial tool for maintaining clarity, safety, and operational efficiency.

With global supply chains expanding, the challenge of maintaining food safety and transparency has grown. Contamination risks, along with the need for rapid product origin identification, make it vital to comply with standards like the UK Food Information Regulation (FIR) and the Food Safety Act 1990.

Label materials play a frontline role in these efforts. They must remain legible and intact under varying conditions while conveying critical information such as expiration dates, allergen warnings, and batch codes, ensuring consumer safety and regulatory compliance.

Tailored Solutions for the Food Industry

At Smith & McLaurin, we design label stock materials specifically to meet the needs of food producers. Our AdaptUltra range offers versatile solutions, designed for various applications where durability and performance are paramount.

From labels that remain firmly in place in cold storage environments to those ensuring scannable barcodes for streamlined logistics, our products are engineered with the unique demands of food labelling in mind. Our adhesives are formulated to perform in high-humidity conditions and extreme temperatures, ensuring reliability across all stages of food production and distribution.

Innovative Labels to Enhance Safety

Innovation drives our approach to food safety. Our metal-detectable labels provide an added layer of protection against contamination, ensuring that every component of a label is detectable and traceable in food production lines.

Our AdaptEco range includes PurityWash, a wash-off adhesive solution which allow labels to be easily removed during recycling or reuse processes. This innovation not only supports food safety but also promotes sustainability, making it easier to balance safety with environmental responsibility.

Sustainability Without Compromising Safety

Sustainable packaging is no longer a preference—it’s a necessity. However, balancing eco-friendly materials with food safety standards can be complex. Our AdaptEco range bridges this gap, offering FSC® certified and recyclable materials that meet both sustainability and food safety requirements.

By integrating our sustainable label materials into your packaging strategy, you can demonstrate leadership in both areas, ensuring compliance with modern consumer and regulatory expectations.

A Collaborative Approach for Optimal Results

What sets us apart is our partnership-driven mindset. We don't just supply materials—we collaborate closely with our customers to fully understand their challenges and operational goals. Whether you need solutions for complex supply chains or niche applications, we work alongside you to ensure our products meet your precise needs.

If you're seeking label stock materials that prioritise food safety, traceability, and sustainability, reach out today by calling us on 01505 707700 or emailing info@smcl.co.uk.