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Visual effects that appear under the influence of temperature create a new standard of communication in food packaging design. The thermochromic effect supports purchasing decisions because it shows the right moment of consumption, confirms freshness or emphasizes the ritual of use. InnovaPrint uses thermochromic printing to design labels and packaging that work together with the product and increase its market value. In this article, we explain how the effect of color change under the influence of temperature works, why it is worth considering in label design and how thermochromic printing can be used in the food industry.

Table of contents

1. What is thermochromic printing?
2. Why does InnovaPrint use SPLinx technologies?
3. Applications of the thermochromic effect on food labels
4. The impact of thermochromic printing on purchasing decisions

What is thermochromic printing?

Thermochromic printing is a technique in which a graphic element changes color when a certain temperature is reached. In practice, SPLinx thermochromic inks are used, which activate a simple and legible visual signal when the temperature rises or falls. The mechanism is responsible for the controlled moment of the appearance of graphics or their disappearance. Food Industry Applications:

• Determination of the optimal temperature of beverage consumption.
• Signaling the right serving temperature for dairy products.
• Visual inspection of freshness in chilled products.

Business Benefits:

• Increase trust in the brand thanks to a clear functional message.
• Increase the attractiveness of the product on the shelf through a dynamic element.
• Reduce user errors when using the product.

Examples of industries: functional drinks, craft beers, dairy, ready-to-eat dishes.
Usage scenario: The consumer sees that the label has changed color after cooling, and decides to buy with a clear signal of product readiness.

Why does Innovaprint use SPLinx technologies?

We use SPLinx solutions to offer stable and easy-to-integrate effects that don’t put a strain on the printing process. SPLinx thermochromic solutions for printing work in a wide range of temperature calibrations, allowing you to tailor the visual reaction to any food product.

Applications:

• Premium labels that require interaction.
• Limited series with an element of surprise.
• Packages with messages that activate under certain conditions.

Business Benefits:

• Build brand differentiators without changing the packaging design.
• Ability to design seasonal campaigns with the same layout.
• Increasing the time of consumer contact with the product.

Examples of industries: alcohol, ice cream, convenience food, sports brands.
Usage scenario: The label only reacts under refrigerated conditions, which supports warehouse processes and confirms proper storage.

Applications of the thermochromic effect on food labels

Thermochromic printing makes it easier to convey information that was previously difficult to present clearly. It can replace complex messages with a pictogram that appears automatically when the temperature changes.

Applications:

• Informing about the correct cooling of the product before consumption.
• Presentation of graphics after heating the packaging with the ready dish.
• Create interactive labels for promotional campaigns.
• Strengthening branding elements by temperature reactions.

Business Benefits:

• Reduce the risk of complaints thanks to clear instructions.
• Facilitated communication of the sensory qualities of the product.
• Added value without increasing logistics costs.

Examples of industries: instant meals, fermented products, impulse snacks.
Usage scenario: When poured with hot water, a graphic appears on the mug to confirm the readiness of the dish.

The impact of thermochromic printing on purchasing decisions

Thermochromic printing allows you to create a unique moment of interaction with the product, which the consumer quickly remembers. The color change becomes a clear proof of quality and a real support for the decision-making process. INNOVAPRINT implements these solutions in such a way that they are visible from a distance, highlight market novelties, activate messages in seasonal campaigns and integrate educational elements directly into the label. The result is an increase in on-the-shelf conversions through an immediate visual response, a simple presentation of key product features without the need for additional content, and a stronger relationship with the consumer through an interactive experience. These solutions are particularly effective in categories such as energy drinks, premium drinks or chilled products, where changing the colour only in the right temperature range increases customer satisfaction and promotes repeat purchases.

Do you want to create labels or product packaging that react to temperature? Contact us!

Write to us and start creating interactive food labels and packaging!