The question : Are gloss finish labels more resistant to water and honey than economy matt labels ?
I have been asked this a few times and have also wondered it myself but up until a couple of days ago hadn’t tried to find out. After another inquiry I decided to perform a test.
The test : a colour block was printed onto both matt white and gloss white label stationery. The labels were then stuck to a glass jar. Then using my finger :
- water was smeared onto each label;
- water was rubbed onto each label, and
- honey was smeared onto each label.
The labels were left overnight and then examined and photographed.
Observations :
- The water smear test : left no noticeable mark on either label.
- The rubbed water test : had no impact on the gloss label but the surface of the matt label was eroded and with it the toner – which itself is waterproof.
- The honey smear test : the honey was lying on the surface of the gloss label with no sign of penetration while the matt label showed clear signs of penetration. After taking the photographs I used a damp cloth to wipe off the honey. This came clean off the gloss label leaving no marking or damage while the matt label was damaged.
Conclusion : Gloss labels are highly resistant to water and honey and are recommended where resilience is important to you and your customers.
The Gloss labels cost 10p more a sheet but if appearance and durability is important to your customers it is worth it.
(post edited 12 Dec 2017)
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