Reviewed: 9 September 2026

Fresh produce, seafood and other temperature-controlled products often need clear batch, date, carton, destination or handling information. Thermal inkjet (TIJ) printing can support this work, but cold-chain conditions create an important challenge: condensation, low temperature and repeated handling can change how ink performs on a package.

Why cold-chain printing needs its own test

A code that looks clear on a dry sample at room temperature may behave differently after the package is chilled, frozen, thawed or exposed to moisture. Plastic crates, film, foam boxes, coated cartons and labels can also use different material formulations. No ink should be described as suitable for every cold-chain surface without testing.

Where possible, establish a clean and dry print zone before the product enters the cold area. If printing must take place after chilling, test the actual surface temperature and condensation level. Customers should evaluate drying time, smudge resistance, adhesion, scan quality and readability after their normal storage and transport cycle.

Information that may be printed

• Batch or lot reference
• Production, packing or use-by information defined by the customer
• Carton, destination or handling identifiers
• Text, counters, barcodes, QR codes or approved variable data

The printer creates the required mark; it does not automatically verify the accuracy of the source data or ensure regulatory, export, customs or traceability compliance. The customer remains responsible for approving the content, records, code quality and applicable requirements.

Handheld or inline workflow

The BENTSAI 6205BL and BENTSAI 6210BL are handheld TIJ options that may suit cartons, packages or irregular work areas after sample testing. A handheld workflow can be useful for lower-volume, mixed-product or off-line coding. Where products move consistently on a production line, a compatible inline printer, sensor, mounting position and conveyor speed should be assessed as a complete application.

Recommended evaluation process

1. Send PTS the actual package or a representative sample.
2. State the material, coating and whether the surface is dry, damp, chilled or frozen during printing.
3. Provide the required code size, content, print quantity and line speed.
4. Test the proposed cartridge and printer combination.
5. Repeat the customer’s real chilling, freezing, thawing, rubbing and scanning process.
6. Approve the result before routine use.

Cartridge selection must match the specific printer model, regional chip/firmware configuration and substrate. Product or ink performance can vary with operating conditions, so sample results should be documented by the customer.

See our Food & Beverage Coding Solutions, Warehouse & Logistics Coding Solutions and complete Coding & Marking Solutions by Application.

PTS Technology Sdn Bhd is the exclusive authorised distributor for BENTSAI handheld inkjet printers in Malaysia. We provide application discussion, sample testing, product demonstrations and local technical support. WhatsApp PTS to arrange a test.