Vegetable Ink Packaging Box Printing in Malaysia
Despite its introduction to Malaysia’s printing industry years ago, vegetable-based ink has yet to replace traditional petroleum-based ink due to long-standing habits among printing companies.
Local printers are accustomed to petroleum-based ink and are often reluctant to switch because vegetable inks generally take longer to dry — which can be inconvenient for Malaysia’s fast-paced, overnight printing schedules.
Unlike in developed countries where vegetable ink is more accessible, in Malaysia it remains pricier and less readily available due to lower demand and limited stock from local suppliers.
Understanding Petroleum-based Ink
Petroleum-based ink continues to dominate Malaysia’s printing industry due to its affordability and easy availability — even though it is less environmentally friendly.
It contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to air pollution, pose health risks, and make paper recycling more difficult.
Many printers still prioritize speed and cost efficiency over sustainability, which keeps petroleum-based ink in common use.
Advantages of Vegetable-Based Ink
Vegetable-based ink was developed as a cleaner, renewable alternative to petroleum-based ink. Made from natural oils such as soybean, linseed, or other vegetable sources, it offers better environmental performance and safer working conditions for printers.
It emits fewer harmful chemicals, supports easier recycling, and delivers vibrant, high-quality print results — making it ideal for packaging box printing in Malaysia.
Impact of Covid-19 on Packaging Box Printing
The Covid-19 pandemic raised awareness about health and the environment among Malaysians. Many companies began adopting more eco-friendly printing practices, such as using FSC®-certified paper and vegetable-based ink for packaging.
Consumers, once focused mainly on price and speed, now value sustainability and responsible production — reflecting a broader shift toward environmental consciousness in Malaysia’s printing and packaging industries.
Pros and Cons of Vegetable-Based Ink
Pros of Vegetable-Based Ink
Environmentally friendly: Made from renewable, natural resources and produces fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) compared to petroleum-based inks.
Non-toxic: Safe for use in food packaging and other sensitive applications.
Easier to recycle: Paper printed with vegetable inks requires less energy and effort to de-ink during recycling.
High quality: Produces vibrant, high-quality images ideal for premium packaging and marketing materials.
Cost-effective: May require less ink to achieve vivid results, making it more economical in the long run.
Cons of Vegetable-Based Ink
Higher cost: The initial purchase price is generally higher than petroleum-based inks.
Slower drying time: Can dry more slowly, which may slow down high-speed or overnight printing jobs.
Durability: May have slightly lower resistance to wear and fading compared to some synthetic inks.
Limited availability: Not as widely stocked as conventional inks in Malaysia, though availability is improving.
Final Thoughts
As an FSC® certified printing company in Malaysia, Uniquelink supports the use of vegetable-based inks for environmentally responsible printing. When paired with FSC® paper, vegetable ink offers excellent print quality while minimizing environmental impact.
Post-Covid-19, Malaysian consumers increasingly prefer eco-friendly and health-conscious products. Choosing FSC® paper and vegetable ink printing shows that your brand cares about both quality and sustainability — a responsible choice for a greener future.
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[…] soy-based ink may take longer to dry and can be more costly, vegetable-based inks offer a more practical and sustainable alternative. As environmental awareness grows, […]