Choosing the correct label and adhesive combination can be tricky, finding one that works in freezing application and service temperatures can be even more complex. Some tips that can help:

– Freezer and cold temperature adhesives are not the same. It’s critical to have a good understanding of application and service temperatures, moisture levels and substrates that labels will be applied to. A good freezer adhesive will not only have a low application temperature, it should be able to withstand frost, moisture and blast freezer environments.

– Conditions requiring good initial tack and ultimate adhesion when being applied in freezer conditions are ideal for freezer grade adhesives. They are also well suited for room temperature application followed by blast freezer conditions.

– Freezer grade adhesives are very soft allowing them to to function well in frozen environments. This “softness” makes them tougher to die cut and more prone to “ooze” at room temperature. These factors can increase costs to convert. When you don’t require a freezer grade, move to cold temperature grades which reduce these issues.

– Blast or flash freezing is typically used on vegetables, entrees and fruit due to it’s speed and for cosmetic purposes. It produces fewer ice crystals inside the package which customers may find unattractive. For blast or flash freezing applications cold temperature adhesives may not work, even if the initial application temperature is above freezing.

– As with any label application, test for other elements that may impact performance. These include substrates, dispensing, moisture and environmental conditions and other factors that the label may encounter. In other words, don’t just focus on the temperatures involved.

Contact a member of the SpectraGraphics Team for more information on choosing the correct adhesive for your product. We’re here to help!