DIC India talked about its next-generation sustainable inks and coatings at the recently concluded Asia Coat and Ink Show 2022 held in Mumbai. The company promoted its toluene-free ink systems, ketone-free inks, water-based inks and low viscosity, high strength non-toluene inks for flexible packaging applications.

“In addition to the various sustainable ink systems, we talked about barrier coatings; the aim to replace PE. We have a range of applications specific to regulatory requirements and customer needs. Most of the inks we talked about at the show are made in India. Some coating solutions are imported,” says Saroj Kumar Panda, chief technical manager, LI, DIC India. 

DIC India is one of the biggest and oldest manufacturers of printing inks and allied material in the country.  It provides liquid inks formulated to meet the diverse needs of reverse printing on treated BOPP, treated and plain polyester film, nylon and cellophane, among others. 

Sustainability in packaging

The issue of environment and sustainability is now an important part of discussion in the packaging industry. Panda says DIC India takes the issue seriously and is working to keep the environment safe.

“Brand owners are moving towards environment-friendly ink systems such as non-toluene inks. DIC India is partnering with many stakeholders in the industry. We are conducting seminars and workshops to educate the industry about the health hazards associated with toluene inks, and how we can move towards alternatives to protect our environment,” he says.