Bio

Scientists have described the screen printing of a catechu (Senegalia catechu)/guar gum based edible ink for food printing and packaging applications.

Senegalia catechu is an excellent substitute for synthetic pigments; nevertheless, it is necessary to mix pigment with binder and functional agents. In a new study, Senegalia catechu pigment (SNC), as the main constituent-based edible inks, was prepared. Calcium carbonate (CC) as a colour enhancing agent and guar gum (GM) as a binder were incorporated in concentrations of 0.2, 0.5, and 1 %, and its influence on edible ink’s solid content, colour, rub resistance, light fastness, and antioxidant activity was assessed.

All samples of the edible ink have demonstrated excellent printing effects and visual recognition. The SNC/CC/GM-3 edible ink has shown a smooth surface, the highest colour value, rub resistance, and light fastness among all the synthesised inks. This ink was also applied through screen printing on apple, mango, cookie, edible cup, etc. The researchers believe that Senegalia catechu-based edible ink can be used for direct printing on food products and non-food items.

The study has been published in Progress in Organic Coatings, Volume 182, September 2023.

Event tip

Bio-based systems are also the focus of the EC Conference Bio-based and Water-based Coatings on November 14 and 15 in Berlin, Germany. At the conference, you will learn about the latest developments in bio-based and water-based coatings.