Wet-glue labels: modern and & future-proof

Wet-glue labels are a proven technology with numerous possible applications. They offer economic and ecological advantages and remain an important component of packaging solutions, particularly in the beverage industry.

No backing material required:
A key advantage of wet-glue labels compared to self-adhesive labels is that they do not require a backing material. This eliminates the costs for the backing material and its disposal, which brings both an economic advantage and a better ecological balance compared to adhesive labels on rolls.

Multi-layer wet-glue labels:
In addition to single-layer wet-glue labels, there are also multi-layer variants. These can be used for additional product information, competitions or multilingual texts, for example. They can be processed in an automatic process in the same way as single-layer labels, which means that no special machines or additional adaptations are required.

All about wet-glue labels

"Wet glue labels" (also known as wet adhesive labels or wet glue labels) are a proven method of labeling products, particularly in the beverage, food and chemical industries. They are usually made of paper and are affixed directly to the product by applying a special wet glue or hot melt adhesive. This process is characterized by cost efficiency, sustainability and great flexibility.

Functionality of wet-glue labels 

Wet glue labels are applied in several steps:

Production of the labels

Wet-glue labels are made from coated or uncoated paper. They can be single or multi-layered, with multi-layer variants offering additional space for information, e.g. for multilingual packaging or extensive legal requirements.

Applying the wet glue

Before application, a water-based glue or hot melt is applied to the back of the label.

Application to the product

The labels are applied directly to the containers (e.g. glass bottles, plastic containers or metal cans) in production lines.

Drying

After application, the glue dries and forms a permanent bond between the label and the surface.

Special features: No carrier materials

A key advantage of wet-glue labels is that, unlike self-adhesive labels, they do not require a backing material. This offers several advantages:

  • Sustainability: As no silicone-coated backing paper is required, there is less waste. This reduces the consumption of resources and makes the process more environmentally friendly.
  • Saving on raw materials: Saving on carrier material leads to less use of paper and chemicals.
  • Easy recycling: Wet-glue labels are generally made of pure paper, which makes them easier to recycle.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Savings in material and disposal costs compared to adhesive labels.

Multilayer wet-glue labels 

Multi-layer wet-glue labels, which consist of two or more layers on top of each other, are an innovative further development. These offer additional advantages:

  • Solution for space problems: The increasing requirements for product labels, e.g. due to the CLP Regulation or the EU Labeling Regulation, make a larger information area necessary. Multi-layer wet-glue labels enable the integration of extensive information in a limited space.
  • Flexibility: Multilingual notices, legal markings, product information or marketing content can be displayed in a space-saving manner.
  • Easy access to information: Special designs such as hinged or peel-off layers keep the label user-friendly and easy to read.
  • Automated processing: Multi-layer wet-glue labels can be processed in the same production lines as single-layer labels.

Typical areas of application for multilayer wet-glue labels 

  • Chemical industry: Hazardous substance labels with extensive safety information and symbols.
  • Food industry: Detailed ingredient lists and nutritional value tables for international markets.
  • Beverage industry: Multilingual product descriptions or advertising messages.

Use in the chemical industry 

Wet-glue labels are particularly important in the chemical industry:

  • Compliance with legal requirements: The CLP regulation and GHS (Globally Harmonized System) require extensive labelling, including hazard symbols, safety instructions and product information. Multi-layer wet-glue labels provide the necessary surface area without compromising the design of the product.
  • Resistance: Special coatings (e.g. UV varnish) ensure that the labels remain legible even when exposed to chemicals, moisture or extreme temperatures.
  • Efficiency: By integrating several layers, space on the packaging is optimally utilized, which is a particular advantage for small containers.

Economic advantages 

The use of (multi-layer) wet-glue labels offers the following economic advantages:

  • Cost efficiency: Less expensive than self-adhesive labels, both for low and high production volumes.
  • Sustainability: dispensing with carrier material reduces costs and improves the environmental balance.
  • Efficient use of resources: multi-layer labels provide more space without additional investment in labeling systems or their expansion.
  • Optimized logistics: Stackable labels save transport costs compared to roll labels.

Areas of application

Wet-glue labels are used in various industries:

  • Beverage industry: For glass bottles, e.g. beer, wine or soft drinks.
  • Food industry: For cans, jars or cartons.
  • Chemical industry: For hazardous material containers, paint cans or aerosols.
  • Animal feed industry: For products with extensive information requirements.

Advantages of wet-glue labels 

  • Cost efficiency: for both low and high production volumes thanks to the combined use of offset and digital printing.
  • Sustainability: The absence of carrier material reduces waste.
  • Flexibility: Great design freedom in terms of shape, design and material.
  • Space saving: Multi-layer variants solve space problems on small packaging.
  • Resistance: Chemical and weather-resistant variants for special applications.

Challenges

  • Technical complexity: The production and application of multi-layer wet-glue labels in automated processes require specialized machines.

Future prospects

With the increasing demand for sustainable and flexible packaging solutions, wet-glue labels - especially in multi-layer versions - will continue to gain in importance. They offer an efficient, economical and sustainable solution for growing information requirements, particularly in the chemical, food and animal feed industries. Advances in materials research and printing technology could further improve functionality and environmental friendliness.

FAQ

 

When was the wet glue label invented?

The first wet glue labels were developed in the 18th century. The exact year is not precisely documented, but the technology was continually refined in the course of the industrial revolution.

Who invented the wet glue label?

The invention of the wet glue label cannot be attributed to a single inventor. Rather, it was a progressive development within the printing and packaging industry.

Where was the wet glue label invented?

Wet-glue labels were developed in Europe, particularly in Germany and the UK, where demand for industrial labels was growing rapidly.

Why was the wet glue label developed?

It was developed to create an efficient and cost-effective way of labeling products, especially glass bottles, food cans and cardboard packaging.

What procedures and methods existed before the introduction of the wet glue label?

Before the invention of wet-glue labels, labels were usually hand-painted or stuck on manually using wax and other sticky substances.

Is the wet glue label a German invention?

Germany has contributed significantly to the development and refinement of wet-glue label technology, particularly through letterpress printing and the paper industry.

How has the production of wet-glue labels developed in recent years?

Production has become more efficient thanks to modern printing and finishing technologies. Digital printing and improved paper and glue qualities have increased production speed and quality.

Why is the wet glue label called a wet glue label?
The name comes from the fact that the adhesive is only applied and activated immediately before application.

Is the wet glue label used worldwide?
Yes, it is used worldwide, especially in the food and beverage industry.

Which companies produce wet-glue labels?
There are many companies, including specialized printers and packaging manufacturers.

What training do you need to do or have in order to produce wet glue labels?
Professions such as print media designer, packaging technologist or print technician are relevant.

What knowledge does a user need to be able to use wet-glue labels in production without any problems?
A user should have knowledge of adhesives, paper quality and processing in machines.

How does the production of wet glue labels work?
Production involves printing on special paper, cutting to size and, if necessary, surface finishing.

What information does a manufacturer of wet-glue labels need from the customer in order to produce them?
Format, print data, desired materials, area of application and finishing options.

What machines does a manufacturer need to produce wet glue labels?
Printing machines, die-cutting machines, coating systems.

How much does a machine that can produce wet glue labels cost?
The costs vary greatly, ranging from a few thousand euros to several million euros for large production systems.

Who manufactures machines for wet-glue label production?
Companies such as Heidelberg, Bobst and Koenig & Bauer.

How long can a machine for wet glue label production be used?
Several decades, depending on maintenance.

Do you need any special qualifications or experience to produce wet glue labels?
Yes, experience in printing is helpful.

Is it difficult to produce wet-glue labels?
Production requires technical expertise, but is easy to do with the right training.

How long does it take to produce a wet glue label?
Individual labels are produced in seconds, mass production takes hours to days.

What materials are required to produce a wet glue label?
Special paper, wet glue, printing inks.

Where do the materials needed to produce wet glue labels come from?
Paper is produced all over the world, glue often comes from chemical production facilities.

Can the surface of wet-glue labels be treated with varnish?
Yes, protective coatings are common.

What formats can wet-glue labels have?
All conceivable shapes and sizes.

Arethere any size restrictions for a wet glue label?
Theoretically no, but machines have certain standard formats.

Who designs wet glue labels?
Graphic designers and print specialists.

In which industries can wet-glue labels generally be used?
Food, beverage, pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

What are the risks of using wet-glue labels?
Poor adhesion if the adhesive is incorrect or the surface is unsuitable.

Do wet glue labels stick to different materials?
Yes, but with different levels of adhesion.

How easy is it to remove wet glue labels?
Often easy to remove with water and cleaning agents.

What does a wet glue label cost?
Between 0.005 and 0.05 euros per piece, depending on the print run and quality.

Do wet-glue labels cost less than adhesive roll labels?
Often yes, as the material costs are lower.

Are wet glue labels biodegradable or recyclable?
Yes, many are made of paper and are more environmentally friendly than plastic labels.

Is the wet glue label more environmentally friendly than the adhesive roll label?
In many cases, yes, as less plastic and chemicals are used.

Are there labels or certificates that prove the environmental compatibility of wet glue labels?
Yes, e.g. FSC certificates for sustainable forestry.

How is the environmental compatibility of wet glue labels tested?
Through life cycle assessments and independent testing institutes.