Guide1 min read

How to Choose the Right Flexo Printing Machine for Food Packaging

A buyer's guide covering CI vs Stack flexo, substrate compatibility, ink systems, and key specifications for food packaging.

L
LISHG Editorial
March 21, 2026
How to Choose the Right Flexo Printing Machine for Food Packaging
Article overview

A buyer's guide covering CI vs Stack flexo, substrate compatibility, ink systems, and key specifications for food packaging.

How to Choose the Right Flexo Printing Machine for Food PackagingGuideguideLISHG Machineryflexographic printing machine
Article Content
In-depth analysis, specifications and editorial commentary

Why CI Flexo Dominates Food Packaging

Flexographic printing accounts for over 60% of all flexible food packaging globally. CI presses with gearless servo drives deliver the combination of speed (up to 400 m/min), quality (±0.1mm register), and food-safe ink compatibility that brand owners demand.

CI vs Stack Flexo

CI Flexo: Single central drum ensures precise registration on thin extensible films. Recommended for BOPP, PET, PE pouches, FFS films. Stack Flexo: Better for paper/board, multi-substrate jobs at lower speeds.

Key Specifications

Printing width: 800–1050mm covers most food packaging applications. 8 colors enable Extended Color Gamut printing. Gearless drive is essential for production speeds above 200 m/min.

Ink System for Food Safety

Water-based inks reduce VOC by 95% and comply with FDA/EU 10/2011. UV inks provide instant curing and excellent lamination adhesion. LISHG hot-air inter-deck drying is engineered specifically for high-speed water-based printing.