Multisteps offers two label solutions to suit your fresh food packaging needs: traditional pressure-sensitive labels and our latest innovation—Direct-to-Packaging label printing.
Our Direct-to-Packaging process eliminates the label altogether by printing directly onto your RPET punnets, clamshells and trays using food-grade, high-resolution inks. It’s a cleaner, simpler solution designed for today’s operational pressures and tomorrow’s recycling standards.
Compare: Traditional vs Direct-to-Packaging Labels
| Traditional Labels | Direct-to-Packaging Labels | |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Manual or machine-applied adhesive labels | Printed directly onto RPET punnets or trays |
| Materials | Paper or film with adhesive backing | Food-grade inks only—no backing or adhesives |
| Workflow | Label rolls, setup time, storage, reorders & freight | Eliminates label ordering, logistics and warehousing |
| Recyclability | Can cause contamination in RPET recycling wash process | Clean mono-material RPET, PREP-aligned |
| Best For | High-volume SKUs, broad applications | Supports variable data—change artwork or barcodes (e.g., QR) per SKU without switching label stock. Ideal for automated or short-run fresh produce packaging applications. |
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Direct-to-Packaging Labels — FAQs
Direct Label Printing for Fresh Produce Punnets, & Trays
Find answers on how direct-to-packaging labels support sustainability goals, improve operational efficiency, across fresh produce punnets and trays.
Our print system is currently optimised for PET punnets and trays.
Max pack size: 320 mm wide × 75 mm high
Max print area: 250 x 250 mm
Print positions: Top and/or bottom
Yes. High-resolution direct printing supports clear, scannable barcodes and QR codes, including GS1-compliant barcode requirements.
Yes. Our UV-cured inks are scuff-resistant, smudge-resistant and designed to withstand normal handling, packing and transport conditions.
Yes. All trays are RIC 1 (PET) and comply with the APCO PREP tool.
Yes. It uses four colour CMYK and PANTONE colour matching.
Minimum order quantities depend on the tray format, and delivery frequency.Speak with our team so we can understand your application and confirm the applicable MOQ.
