FDBusiness.com

Domino Printing Sciences’ coding & marking systems can be fully integrated with Moba and Sanovo graders on egg processing lines. By combining CIJ printers with new EU and FDA compliant direct food contact inks, Domino’s A-Series i-Tech systems are capable of printing high contrast codes on brown and white eggs.

Greg Treanor, Product Marketing Manager – CIJ at Domino Printing Sciences, comments: “Egg coding is a legal requirement in an increasing number of countries, as codes contain the traceability and food safety information that allow eggs to cross borders and be exported. Since 2004, a producer code regulated by EU law has allowed consumers to distinguish free range and organic farming eggs from those produced by hens in industrial cage complexes.”

“In addition, brand recognition also plays a role,” he continues. “Where regulatory compliance is not a legal requirement, a code enables a manufacturer to help distinguish their product by branding eggs with logos or trademarks. This is especially relevant for eggs that are sold loose and not within a carton, as is the case in some emerging markets, but it also proves helpful for customers that prefer a specific brand of eggs that they know comes from a safe, reputable source.”

Domino’s i-Tech continuous ink jet range of printers has been designed in partnership with grader manufacturers to ensure excellent performance, as well as reliability and ease of use, are maintained throughout production.

The CIJ printers allow direct connection to the latest Moba egg graders, with no additional interface necessary, while cables and accessories are available for retrofitting and upgrading A-Series Classic and A-Series plus printers. Integration with Sanovo’s latest grader technology is also made possible thanks to Domino’s QuickDesign message design and print control software.

The new EU and FDA compliant 4RD006s and 4BL004s direct food contact inks are compatible with Domino’s A420i and A520i systems and offer a higher contrast code compared to previous inks used for the egg sector. In particular, the A520i’s compact stainless steel cabinet and its IP66 electronics enclosure, make it ideal for coding in harsh environments. Thanks to its stackable design, multiple units can be easily integrated along the processing lines, with the added benefit of a remote user interface.

More importantly to the user, Domino’s egg coding solution allows to save on call out charges, as no manual maintenance is required, while the advanced 3 stage solvent recovery allows for lowest Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

“The egg market is a specialist area in which Domino has a wealth of experience,” says Bob Lilley, Solutions Development Manager at Domino Printing Sciences. “Thanks to this tailored solution that delivers excellent performance and consistent print quality, we believe we are fully equipped to answer the demands of this key market for the foreseeable future.”