Compostable Labels Aren't As Durable & That’s A Good Thing
Our compostable labels are printed and then we apply a water-based varnish flood coat to them. Plastic labels are printed and usually laminated with a clear coat.
There is no doubt the compostable labels scratch more easily than the plastic labels.
Why is this?
Because we're concerned about the ability of the label to compost, we print the majority of small print runs (under 250-500,000) on our digital presses which print with toner ink - this means the toner ink on the labels isn’t as durable as if it was printed on a flexographic press using soy-based inks.
This aids the composting process but may be an issue regarding the durability of the art printed on the labels if they are excessively rubbed or scraped.
Now, having said that,
I think this a wonderful branding opportunity for business who want their customers to know what they're doing. The fact that the label is not as durable as plastic is precisely the point of using a compostable stock - it’s not meant to last forever, unlike a plastic sticker. Most everybody understands, appreciates and chooses the compostable over plastic label.
The Surfrider Foundation adds text around their compostable labels which say something like this:
“Our message is timeless. We just don’t think our stickers should be!”
Are your clients concerned about the packaging you're using? About it's end-of-life scenario? About the fact that it is or is not plastic? Your packaging is telling a story about your company, as well as what's inside. Compostable labels can be a great part of that story.
