{"id":34819,"date":"2023-06-15T12:00:11","date_gmt":"2023-06-15T12:00:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/solutions\/industries\/ready-meals\/"},"modified":"2026-05-08T11:03:16","modified_gmt":"2026-05-08T11:03:16","slug":"ready-meals","status":"publish","type":"solution","link":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/coding-solutions\/industries\/ready-meals\/","title":{"rendered":"Ready Meals"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-linx-features-hero glide\"><div class=\"glide__track\" data-glide-el=\"track\"><ul class=\"glide__slides\">\n\n<li class=\"glide__slide\"><div class=\"wp-block-cover is-light\" style=\"min-height:321px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2208\" height=\"1657\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-4888\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/lx2774.jpg\" style=\"object-position:46% 67%\" data-object-fit=\"cover\" data-object-position=\"46% 67%\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/lx2774.jpg 2208w, https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/lx2774.jpg?resize=300,225 300w, https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/lx2774.jpg?resize=768,576 768w, https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/lx2774.jpg?resize=1024,768 1024w, https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/lx2774.jpg?resize=1536,1153 1536w, https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/lx2774.jpg?resize=2048,1537 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2208px) 100vw, 2208px\" \/><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-10 has-background-dim\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-cover-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-large-font-size\"><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"margin-top:50px;margin-bottom:50px\">\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-navi-blue-color has-text-color\" id=\"h-coding-on-ready-meal-packaging\">Coding &amp; Printing on Ready Meal Packaging<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Reliable, accurate coding for every format \u2014 from chilled trays to frozen pouches<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Ready meal manufacturers across the UK face a uniquely demanding set of coding challenges: <strong>Cold, wet washdown environments. <\/strong>Tight line speeds. An ever-expanding range of packaging formats: <strong>plastic trays, glossy card sleeves, flow-wrap pouches and outer cartons<\/strong> each requiring a different approach to printing on ready meal packaging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Linx printers are built for exactly this environment. With IP55-rated enclosures, self-cleaning printheads and specialist food-safe inks, Linx delivers clear, legible <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/products\/cij-printers\/\"><strong>coding on ready meal packaging<\/strong><\/a> first time, every time without slowing your line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong><strong>To find out&nbsp;more information and to request your samples with no obligation, click the button below.<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/sample-printing\/\">Request Print Sample<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"535\" src=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/coding-on-ready-meals-e1758267860828.jpg?w=800\" alt=\"Batch coding on a ready meal packaging\" class=\"wp-image-12159\" title=\"Batch coding on a ready meal packaging\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/coding-on-ready-meals-e1758267860828.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/coding-on-ready-meals-e1758267860828.jpg?resize=300,201 300w, https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/coding-on-ready-meals-e1758267860828.jpg?resize=768,514 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-navi-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-6f12421121937c415894dbb9acabcae0\" id=\"h-benefit-of-printing-on-ready-meal-packaging-nbsp\">The Challenges of Coding on Ready Meal Packaging \u2014 and How Linx Solves them<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Washdown and cold environments<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Ready meal production lines are wet, cold and regularly cleaned down with high-pressure hoses. Standard coding equipment fails in these conditions water ingress causes downtime, and with margins already tight, every minute of unplanned stoppage costs money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Linx solution:<\/strong> All Linx printers for the ready meals sector feature IP55-rated stainless steel enclosures, purpose-built to withstand washdown. Self-servicing models require no scheduled engineer visits, and quick, clean cartridge refills keep downtime to a minimum.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Wide variety of packaging formats<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Today&#8217;s ready meal aisle spans plastic trays with foil lids, glossy card sleeves, microwavable pouches, flow-wrap bags and corrugated outer cartons. Printing on ready meal packaging reliably across all these substrates each with different surface properties demands a versatile solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Linx solution:<\/strong> Linx offers CIJ, laser, TIJ and TTO technologies, with specialist inks including grease-penetrating formulations that adhere to difficult food packaging surfaces. Print in any orientation with a choice of conduit lengths and right-angled printheads easy to position on any line layout.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Line speed and OEE<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Ready meals packaging printing must keep pace with high-speed production lines without compromising code quality. Slow startups, messy printheads and operator errors all erode your Overall Equipment Effectiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Linx solution:<\/strong> Self-cleaning printheads ensure clean startups first time, every time. Large colour touchscreens with graphical interfaces make code setup quick and error-free, reducing operator errors and the risk of costly product recalls.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-navi-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ef4d2f08c5a4078f9dc371c997d5c858\">Printing on Ready Meal Packaging: Which Linx Technology Suits your Substrate?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Not all ready meal packaging is the same. Here is a guide to the best coding solution for each format used in UK ready meals manufacturing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-ghost-white-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Packaging type<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Examples<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Best technology<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Key benefit<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Plastic tray<\/td><td>CPET, PET, PP trays with foil lid<\/td><td>CIJ or laser<\/td><td>Adheres to non-porous surfaces<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Card sleeve<\/td><td>Glossy printed sleeves, board wraps<\/td><td>TIJ or laser<\/td><td>High-resolution, brand-matching print<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Flow-wrap pouch<\/td><td>Microwavable pouches, bags, sachets<\/td><td>CIJ or TTO<\/td><td>Fast-drying on film at line speed<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Outer carton<\/td><td>Corrugated cases, shelf-ready packaging<\/td><td>Large character marker<\/td><td>Large, bold codes without labels<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-navi-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5340791f1114c4b5aedf5c790b9bb968\" id=\"h-printers-for-coding-on-ready-meal-packaging\">Linx Printers for Ready Meal Packaging Coding<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-linx-features-horizontal-content\"><div style=\"--column-gap:149px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-linx-animation-fade-in-left is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:52%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"683\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/LX4505-e1777989031218.jpg?w=800\" alt=\"CIJ printer for Ready Meal Packaging\" class=\"wp-image-66730\" title=\"CIJ printer for Ready Meal Packaging\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-linx-animation-fade-in is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:48%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-navi-blue-color has-text-color\" id=\"h-continuous-inkjet-printers-cij\">Continuous Inkjet Printers (CIJ)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-navi-blue-color has-text-color\" style=\"font-size:18px\">Best for: <strong>Use-by dates, batch codes, logos<\/strong> on plastic films, trays, and cartons&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Benefits:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">High-speed, non-contact printing&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Works on curved or uneven surfaces (e.g., tubs, bags)&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Quick-drying inks (including food-safe and grease-resistant)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-left is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-07f920ae wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-btn-link-orange\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/products\/cij-printers\/\">CIJ Printers<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:64px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-linx-animation-fade-in-left is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:52%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Untitled-design-13-edited-1.png?w=900\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-62502\" title=\"CIJ printer for Ready Meal Packaging\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-linx-animation-fade-in is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:48%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-navi-blue-color has-text-color\" id=\"h-continuous-inkjet-printers-cij\">Thermal Transfer Overprinters (TTO)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-navi-blue-color has-text-color\" style=\"font-size:18px\">Best for: Films, foils, plastics and labels.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Benefits:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Fast ribbon changes with an easy load cassette and automatic tension control<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Smooth integration on VFFS, HFFS, flow wrap and pouch lines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Ribbon saving modes to help reduce cost per print and waste<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Prints text, date, shift codes, barcodes, simple logos, ingredients and real time coding<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-left is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-07f920ae wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-btn-link-orange\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/products\/tto-printer\/\">Thermal Transfer Overprinters<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-linx-features-horizontal-content\"><div style=\"--column-gap:149px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-linx-animation-fade-in-left is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:52%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Linx_UVG5_Marquage-Laser-e1757928188959.jpg?w=800\" alt=\"Laser Coder for Ready Meal Packaging\" class=\"wp-image-50501\" title=\"Laser Coder for Ready Meal Packaging\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Linx_UVG5_Marquage-Laser-e1757928188959.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Linx_UVG5_Marquage-Laser-e1757928188959.jpg?resize=150,150 150w, https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Linx_UVG5_Marquage-Laser-e1757928188959.jpg?resize=300,300 300w, https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Linx_UVG5_Marquage-Laser-e1757928188959.jpg?resize=768,768 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-linx-animation-fade-in is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:48%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-navi-blue-color has-text-color\" id=\"h-laser-coders\">Laser Coders<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-navi-blue-color has-text-color\" style=\"font-size:18px\">Best for: <strong>Cartons, sleeves, films with laser-reactive layers<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Benefits:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Permanent, tamper-proof marks&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">No consumables (ink\/ribbon), low running costs&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Great for compliance and long-term traceability&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-left is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-07f920ae wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-btn-link-orange\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/products\/laser-coders\/\">Laser Coders<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-linx-features-horizontal-content\"><div style=\"--column-gap:149px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-linx-animation-fade-in-left is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:52%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"683\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/LX4360-1-e1757934349667.jpg?w=800\" alt=\"TIJ Printers for Ready Meal Packaging\" class=\"wp-image-55389\" title=\"TIJ Printers for Ready Meal Packaging\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-linx-animation-fade-in is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:48%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-navi-blue-color has-text-color\" id=\"h-thermal-inkjet-printers-tij\">Thermal Inkjet Printers (TIJ)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-navi-blue-color has-text-color\" style=\"font-size:18px\">Best for: <strong>Cartons, sleeves, labels<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Benefits:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Very high-resolution printing (ideal for QR codes, 2D codes)&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Compact and easy to integrate&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Best for smaller print areas and lower to medium speeds&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-left is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-07f920ae wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-btn-link-orange\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/products\/tj-series\/\">TIJ Printers<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-linx-features-horizontal-content\"><div style=\"--column-gap:149px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-linx-animation-fade-in-left is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:52%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Large-character.webp?w=800\" alt=\"LCM Printers for Ready Meal Packaging\" class=\"wp-image-23812\" title=\"LCM Printers for Ready Meal Packaging\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Large-character.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Large-character.webp?resize=300,225 300w, https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Large-character.webp?resize=768,576 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-linx-animation-fade-in is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:48%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-navi-blue-color has-text-color\" id=\"h-large-character-case-coders-lcm\">Large Character Case Coders (LCM)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-navi-blue-color has-text-color\" style=\"font-size:18px\">Best for: <strong>Outer cases, trays, and secondary packaging<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Benefits:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Bold, high-visibility printing&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Can replace labels on shipping cartons&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">Cost-efficient for large surface prints&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-left is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-07f920ae wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-btn-link-orange\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/products\/large-character-marking-printers\/\">LCM Printers<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#bfdbf5\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-navi-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color has-x-large-font-size wp-elements-cdec929f3b2e23b11f0f232156b2789e\"><strong>Contact Us<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size\">Why not get in touch with one of our sales reps to talk about how Linx can support your coding and marking needs?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons alignfull is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-25 is-style-btn-navy-blue\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-text-align-center wp-element-button\" href=\"\/en\/contact-us\/\">Get in touch<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-ghost-white-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"margin-bottom:50px\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-navi-blue-color has-text-color\" id=\"h-resources\" style=\"margin-top:50px\">Resources<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-linx-features-resource-cards\"><div class=\"resource-cards-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-linx-features-resource-card\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group resource-card-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group resource-card-data-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large resource-card-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Datasheet.webp?w=90\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"resource-card-title\">Coding Systems for Lean Production White Paper<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-button resource-card-button is-style-btn-navy-blue\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/white-papers\/coding-systems-for-lean-production-white-paper\/\">Read More<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-linx-features-resource-card\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group resource-card-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group resource-card-data-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large resource-card-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Datasheet.webp?w=90\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"resource-card-title\">Quality Foods Case Study<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-button resource-card-button is-style-btn-navy-blue\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/case-studies\/quality-foods-case-study\/\">Read More<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-linx-features-resource-card\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group resource-card-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group resource-card-data-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large resource-card-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Datasheet.webp?w=90\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"resource-card-title\">Mar ne Vall Case Study<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-button resource-card-button is-style-btn-navy-blue\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/case-studies\/mar-ne-vall-case-study\/\">Read More<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><button class=\"show-more is-style-btn-default is-style-btn-show-more hidden\">Show More<\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-navi-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-63bc1628c6fb6bbcb3b882cb456a57b1\">FAQ- Ready Meal Packaging Coding<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1775550819138\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What type of printer is best for coding on ready meal trays?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">For plastic CPET or rPET ready meal trays, continuous inkjet (CIJ) is the most widely used technology. CIJ is a non-contact method that applies ink directly onto the tray surface at line speed, without touching the packaging. Linx CIJ printers use specialist inks \u2014 including grease-penetrating formulations \u2014 that adhere reliably to non-porous plastic surfaces, even in cold, wet production environments. For card sleeves on premium ready meals, laser coding is the preferred option, delivering high-resolution permanent marks that integrate with pre-printed sleeve designs.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1775550875496\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How do I print use-by dates on chilled or frozen ready meal packaging?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Printing use-by dates on chilled or frozen ready meal packaging requires coding equipment that can operate reliably in cold and washdown environments. Linx CIJ printers with IP55-rated stainless steel enclosures are specifically designed for these conditions. Fast-drying specialist inks ensure codes adhere to cold packaging surfaces without smearing. For film pouches on frozen lines, thermal transfer overprinting (TTO) is also a strong option, providing high-resolution date codes on flexible packaging at high speed.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1775550897006\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Can I print on glossy card sleeves without smearing or poor adhesion?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. Glossy, non-porous card sleeves are one of the most common ready meal packaging challenges. Two technologies work particularly well. Laser coders etch the code permanently into the sleeve surface \u2014 no ink, no smearing, no adhesion issues. The result is a clean, permanent mark that cannot be rubbed off and can be designed to complement the sleeve artwork. Alternatively, thermal inkjet (TIJ) with solvent-based inks provides excellent adhesion on glossy card at high resolution, making it suitable for brands that want to print logos, QR codes or promotional codes alongside standard date and batch information.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1775550919196\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What are the UK legal requirements for coding on food packaging?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">UK food manufacturers must comply with several regulations when coding ready meal packaging. Since October 2021, Natasha&#8217;s Law requires all pre-packaged food for direct sale (PPDS) to carry a full ingredient list with allergens clearly emphasised. Use-by dates are legally required on microbiologically perishable products; best-before dates on longer-shelf-life items. Batch and lot numbers are required for traceability under UK food safety legislation, and major UK retailers require GS1-standard barcodes for supply chain management. Post-Brexit UK labelling rules also require country of origin information on certain categories of food. Linx printers support all of these requirements with flexible code templates and error-prevention features.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Coding &amp; Printing on Ready Meal Packaging Reliable, accurate coding for every format \u2014 from chilled trays to frozen pouches Ready meal manufacturers across the UK face a uniquely demanding set of coding challenges: Cold, wet washdown environments. Tight line speeds. An ever-expanding range of packaging formats: plastic trays, glossy card sleeves, flow-wrap pouches and outer cartons each requiring a different<a class=\"moretag\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/coding-solutions\/industries\/ready-meals\/\"> Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":33,"featured_media":0,"parent":34726,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-34819","solution","type-solution","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":{"exclude_from_html_sitemap":false},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.1 (Yoast SEO v22.1) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Coding &amp; Printing on Ready Meal Packaging | Linx UK<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Linx printers deliver reliable coding and printing on ready meal packaging \u2014 date codes, batch codes &amp; barcodes on trays, sleeves &amp; pouches. UK support included.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/coding-solutions\/industries\/ready-meals\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Coding &amp; Printing on Ready Meal Packaging | Linx UK\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Linx printers deliver reliable coding and printing on ready meal packaging \u2014 date codes, batch codes &amp; barcodes on trays, sleeves &amp; pouches. UK support included.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/coding-solutions\/industries\/ready-meals\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Linx Printing Technologies\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-05-08T11:03:16+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/lx2774.jpg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"14 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/coding-solutions\/industries\/ready-meals\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/coding-solutions\/industries\/ready-meals\/\",\"name\":\"Coding & Printing on Ready Meal Packaging | Linx UK\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2023-06-15T12:00:11+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-08T11:03:16+00:00\",\"description\":\"Linx printers deliver reliable coding and printing on ready meal packaging \u2014 date codes, batch codes & barcodes on trays, sleeves & pouches. 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CIJ is a non-contact method that applies ink directly onto the tray surface at line speed, without touching the packaging. Linx CIJ printers use specialist inks \u2014 including grease-penetrating formulations \u2014 that adhere reliably to non-porous plastic surfaces, even in cold, wet production environments. 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For film pouches on frozen lines, thermal transfer overprinting (TTO) is also a strong option, providing high-resolution date codes on flexible packaging at high speed.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/coding-solutions\/industries\/ready-meals\/#faq-question-1775550897006","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/coding-solutions\/industries\/ready-meals\/#faq-question-1775550897006","name":"Can I print on glossy card sleeves without smearing or poor adhesion?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. Glossy, non-porous card sleeves are one of the most common ready meal packaging challenges. Two technologies work particularly well. Laser coders etch the code permanently into the sleeve surface \u2014 no ink, no smearing, no adhesion issues. The result is a clean, permanent mark that cannot be rubbed off and can be designed to complement the sleeve artwork. Alternatively, thermal inkjet (TIJ) with solvent-based inks provides excellent adhesion on glossy card at high resolution, making it suitable for brands that want to print logos, QR codes or promotional codes alongside standard date and batch information.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/coding-solutions\/industries\/ready-meals\/#faq-question-1775550919196","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/coding-solutions\/industries\/ready-meals\/#faq-question-1775550919196","name":"What are the UK legal requirements for coding on food packaging?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"UK food manufacturers must comply with several regulations when coding ready meal packaging. Since October 2021, Natasha's Law requires all pre-packaged food for direct sale (PPDS) to carry a full ingredient list with allergens clearly emphasised. Use-by dates are legally required on microbiologically perishable products; best-before dates on longer-shelf-life items. Batch and lot numbers are required for traceability under UK food safety legislation, and major UK retailers require GS1-standard barcodes for supply chain management. Post-Brexit UK labelling rules also require country of origin information on certain categories of food. Linx printers support all of these requirements with flexible code templates and error-prevention features.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"}]}},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/solution\/34819","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/solution"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/solution"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/33"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/solution\/34819\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":67638,"href":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/solution\/34819\/revisions\/67638"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/solution\/34726"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.linxglobal.com\/en-gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34819"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}