Edible Liquids: Innovation and Adaptation in Food Printing

Color that speaks to the market

Food decoration is not just about aesthetics, it is a visual language that communicates quality, care, and personalization. To achieve this, one key component is required: the edible liquid.

Xlogic has faced one of the most complex challenges in food printing: creating edible liquids that can simultaneously meet technical, regulatory, cultural, and commercial requirements. The result? A complete and flexible range, adaptable to any industrial and geographical context.

The edible liquids technical challenge: a delicate balance

During the development of our solutions, we encountered an undeniable fact: there is no single perfect liquid for all applications. Every substrate, every production line, and every market has unique characteristics.

Here are the main factors influencing the performance of an edible liquid:

• Rheological behavior: the chemical/physical properties of the liquid must be suitable and compliant to ensure precise and stable jetting

• Adhesion and drying: influenced by the decorated surface and environmental conditions

• International regulations: varying from country to country (e.g., CE, FDA, Kosher, Halal, Vegan)

• Consumer expectations: marketing, labeling, and product positioning

• Cost per piece: depending on the color used, density, and commercial purpose

The solution: three families of liquids for three types of needs

1. Azoic Liquids

Designed to provide maximum visual impact and long-lasting performance, azoic liquids deliver intense, vibrant color output.

• Labeled with “E-1XX” codes

• High coverage and contrast

• Shelf life up to 18 months

• Require regulatory compliance and transparent labeling

Ideal for:

• Markets with high regulatory tolerance

• Visually iconic products

• Long-term storage

  
  

2. Azo-Free Liquids

The result of specific research combining visual performance with broader regulatory and cultural acceptance.

• No “E-1XX” codes on labels

• Bright colors, but less intense than azoics

• Shelf life: 6–12 months

Best suited for:

• Brands sensitive to consumer perception

• Products intended for export

• Balance between visibility and transparency

  
  

3. Natural Liquids

The most complex yet fascinating challenge: creating colors only from natural ingredients, without synthetic additives.

• Fully compatible with organic and vegan products

• No codes on labels—only ingredients

• Softer colors and lighter output

• Shelf life: approx. 6 months

  
  

Perfect for:

• Products for children

• Specialized nutrition

• Markets with strict regulatory sensitivity

Adapting to Innovate

Xlogic has chosen not to impose a single solution but to develop multiple approaches to meet diverse needs. Our R&D division continues to work to balance performance, safety, and sustainability.

Every new project is a living laboratory, where technology, chemistry, and creativity come together to create colors that comply with regulations and win over the market.