Reviewed: 6 September 2026

Quick answer: Clear coding on outer cartons can support product identification, stock handling and batch traceability in food logistics. However, a printed code, logo or printer does not by itself establish Halal certification, food-safety compliance or regulatory approval.

Businesses should decide what information may be printed, where it should appear and how it must be verified with their own Halal, quality, packaging and regulatory personnel.

1. What outer packaging coding can support

Depending on the company’s approved workflow, outer cartons or transport packaging may carry information such as:

• product name or internal product code;
• manufacturing, packing or expiry date;
• batch or lot number;
• barcode, QR code or warehouse reference;
• destination, handling or pallet information;
• approved brand or certification artwork.

These markings can help staff distinguish products and retrieve records. They only support traceability when the printed data is accurate and connected to a functioning internal record system.

2. Halal logos and certification information require approval

A printer can reproduce a supplied logo, number or text file, but this does not confirm that the user is authorised to print it or that the artwork meets applicable requirements.

Before printing any Halal logo, certification number or related statement, the customer should verify the approved artwork, wording, size, placement, validity and intended product with its responsible personnel or relevant authority. PTS does not approve Halal claims or certification artwork.

3. Separate print performance from compliance

A clear print result does not prove Halal, food-contact or packaging compliance. Industrial coding ink should not be represented as edible or suitable for direct food contact unless the exact ink has explicit, current documentation supporting that specific use.

For printing on the outside of food packaging or on secondary cartons, customers should still review the exact ink, packaging structure, print position and available product documents. Their compliance team or advisers should determine whether the proposed use is acceptable.

4. Test the actual carton or packaging material

Corrugated kraft cartons, coated cartons, shrink film, plastic crates, glass and metal can produce different results. Coatings, dust, oil, moisture, condensation, surface treatment, printing distance and handling may affect drying and adhesion.

A sample test should therefore check:

• code size and readability;
• barcode or QR-code scanning, if used;
• drying and rub resistance under expected handling;
• performance after stacking, storage or transport;
• printing position and operator access;
• whether the information matches the approved master data.

A successful test applies only to the tested combination and conditions. It is not a guarantee for every material, environment or production batch.

5. Handheld or inline workflow?

Handheld printing may suit lower-volume work, large cartons, warehouse remarking or items that are difficult to move through a fixed station. An inline arrangement may suit repeatable production when the product can be guided consistently past the printhead and sensor.

For suitable external packaging applications, PTS can help evaluate the BENTSAI BT-HH6205BL and BENTSAI BT-HH6210BL. Selection depends on required print height, material, ink compatibility, data format and operating method.

6. A practical approval workflow

1. Define the exact information and print location.
2. Obtain approved artwork and master data from the responsible team.
3. Identify the packaging material, coating and operating conditions.
4. Review the exact ink information and available documents.
5. Run a sample print test using the actual material.
6. Verify legibility, scanning and handling performance.
7. Obtain the customer’s internal approval before production use.
8. Retain the approved file, settings and sample for change control.

Frequently asked questions

Can a BENTSAI printer print a Halal logo?
A compatible printer may reproduce an image file, but the customer must verify its right to use the logo and the applicable artwork, placement and certification requirements.

Does printing a Halal logo make the packaging Halal-compliant?
No. A printed logo is not certification or proof of compliance.

Will the code remain permanent in cold-chain transport?
Do not assume so. Test the exact ink and packaging under expected condensation, temperature, storage and handling conditions.

Is direct printing always better than a label?
No. The suitable method depends on the material, data, volume, workflow, durability requirement and total operating cost.

What should I send PTS for a test?
Provide the actual packaging sample, approved print file, required code size, print position, production volume and expected handling conditions.

Explore related solutions

See our Food & Beverage Coding Solutions, Carton & Secondary Packaging Coding Solutions and Coding & Marking Solutions by Application.

PTS Technology Sdn Bhd is the exclusive authorised distributor for BENTSAI handheld inkjet printers in Malaysia. The exclusive scope refers specifically to handheld printers.

For an application evaluation, visit www.ptstsb.com or contact PTS on WhatsApp.

This article provides general product and application information only. It is not Halal, food-safety, legal or regulatory advice. Customers remain responsible for obtaining the necessary approvals and verifying the exact ink, packaging, artwork and process for their intended use.