The phone eats first! When dining out people often reach for their phones to photograph beautiful food and drinks before taking a bite. Whether it goes on Instagram, TikTok or just a smartphone to share at a later date, it’s how many people start their meal. In fact, we first judge foods from their appearance and then from other attributes such as aroma or taste. Similar to food, “the look” plays a crucial role for consumer products, capturing consumer attention and conveying brand values. How can you better capture the consumer and attract them to your product? Clear labels are an effective option. These labels offer a sleek, modern aesthetic that enhances the overall look of the product while maintaining legibility and brand visibility.

Unique Properties of Clear Labels

A clear label allows a consumer to see inside the package of a clear container allowing you to use the color of the container as part of the design. Only the print on a clear label is visible which allows you to get the look of a printed container at a lower cost.

Clear labels are typically produced from three types of label materials:

• Biaxially-oriented polypropylene (BOPP) is resistant to moisture and chemicals. It’s often the go-to material for beverages. It also pairs well with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers because they can be recycled together. This material is not the best option for products exposed to outdoor conditions.
• Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), unlike BOPP, is a material effective for outdoor use and extreme cold. It is also a recyclable material.
• Clear Vinyl (PVC) is durable and water resistant and the best option for products subject to long-term weather exposure. But, it is the most expensive clear label option and isn’t recyclable.

In addition, clear labels have other unique properties:

• Can fit the exact contour of any bottle, jar or container shape. The height, width, corners and more can all be customized.
• Easy to die cut to create labels shaped like a logo or other custom shapes.
• Flexible dimensions enable brands to use more space on the front, back, side and neck of the package to showcase ingredients and other messaging.

Printing Techniques for Clear Labels

If you're considering using clear labels, there are three main printing techniques available for producing them.

• Digital Printing: Digital printing provides high-resolution graphics and precise color matching, making it perfect for detailed designs and intricate artwork. The process is also faster and more cost-effective for smaller quantities, allowing brands to respond quickly to market changes and trends. Digital printing is ideal for multi-version labeling applications.
• Flexographic Printing: Best suited for large runs, this method offers excellent consistency and durability, producing labels that can withstand harsh conditions without fading. Flexographic printing is also versatile, accommodating a wide range of substrates and finishes.
• Screen Printing: Remains the favorite of designers because of the higher quality, deeper colors, textured designs that result from screen printed labels. In addition, it is especially cost-effective in larger quantities.

Aesthetic and Branding Benefits

Clear labels offer significant aesthetic and branding benefits, giving products a sleek, modern look that stands out on the shelf. The 'no-label' look achieved with clear labels allows the product itself to shine, creating a seamless integration between the label and the packaging. This minimalist approach not only elevates the product's appearance but also reinforces brand identity by allowing more creative freedom in design.

There are a variety of industries that leverage the appeal of clear labels.

Food and Beverage

Food and beverage businesses often utilize clear labels for product labeling, especially on glass or translucent packaging like bottles, jars, and containers. These labels allow the product to remain visible, elevating the brands’ image and conveying essential information such as ingredients and nutritional benefits.

Cosmetics and Beauty Supplies

Clear labels provide cosmetics and beauty brands a seamless and professional look for cosmetic packaging, allowing for better visibility and aesthetic appeal.

DIY and Crafting

Clear labels can elevate the look and the natural beauty of small batch items, ranging from candles and soaps to jewelry and home decor. They can be used on a variety of surfaces, making them versatile for different types of products.

• Candles and Soap - Clear labels can be used to display ingredients, usage instructions, and branding on candles and soap without obscuring their appearance.
• Glass and Ceramics - For items like jars, bottles, or ceramic pieces, clear labels provide a subtle way to add branding or information without detracting from the item's aesthetic.
• Paper Crafts - Clear labels can add a professional finish to scrapbooking, card making, and other paper crafts. They can be used for logos, quotes, or decorative elements that blend seamlessly with the project.

Healthcare and Veterinary

Unlike the branding benefits that clear labels deliver, both healthcare and veterinary operations use clear labels for another reason. They help to ensure the information on a label is maintained and communicated properly. Chemicals and cleansers often used on equipment for sanitation purposes can obscure crucial information. A unishield clear label protects that essential information and ensures critical data is communicated properly.

Clear Label Challenges and Solutions

Although clear labels present unique design options, it’s important to consider these printing techniques during the label design process. For example, because a clear label isn’t 100% opaque:

• The color of the ingredients in the container or the container itself can change the look of lettering and graphics. For example, green print will take on a yellow hue if it’s placed on a blue bottle.
• On glossy materials, design elements may fade or blend in.

But, using thick lines, bold print and strong colors is an effective remedy. It helps designs stand out and the colors on a clear label contrast with the container. Dark colors are ideal on clear products, while light colors stand out on dark products.

In addition, just like for any labeling application, it’s crucial to select the correct adhesive. For example, some adhesives are better suited for glass, while others work well on plastic or metal. Companies like UAL can guide your selection and recommend the best option. Ultimately, testing the label on the product material will ensure you choose the best option.

Clear Labels at United Ad Label

Clear labels offer a unique combination of aesthetic appeal, durability, and versatility, making them an excellent choice for various industries. Whether in cosmetics, food and beverage, healthcare, or even DIY applications, clear labels provide a modern and sophisticated solution that meets both functional and branding needs. Contact UAL to learn more.