Package Printing, Labeling & Identification Flashcards

Which printing process transfers ink from an engraved cylinder directly to the substrate?

Answer: Gravure

Gravure printing uses an engraved cylinder where ink fills recessed cells and is transferred directly to the substrate under pressure.

Which GS1 barcode is most commonly used on retail consumer goods packages in the US?

Answer: UPC-A

UPC-A is the standard 12-digit barcode used by GS1 for retail point-of-sale scanning of consumer goods at checkout.

What is the mandatory blank space surrounding a barcode that allows accurate scanner reading?

Answer: Quiet zone

The quiet zone is the required clear space surrounding a barcode symbol that allows the scanner to identify the start and end of the code without interference.

Which FDA regulation section governs inks used in food-contact packaging in the United States?

Answer: 21 CFR Part 175

21 CFR Part 175 covers indirect food additives including adhesives and coatings, and governs inks used in food-contact packaging applications.

What does RFID stand for in packaging identification systems?

Answer: Radio Frequency Identification

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects, including packages, without line-of-sight scanning.

In flexographic printing, what is the primary function of the anilox roll?

Answer: Meter and deliver a consistent ink volume to the plate

The anilox roll is a key flexographic component that uses engraved cells to meter a precise, controlled volume of ink and transfer it uniformly to the printing plate.

Which label type uses a silicone coating on the face stock itself instead of a separate release liner?

Answer: Linerless label

Linerless labels apply a silicone release coating directly to the face stock, eliminating the need for a separate release liner and reducing material waste.