Oil-based inks are traditional printing inks made primarily from petroleum-based oils. For many years, these inks have been widely used in packaging printing because they produce vivid, durable prints.

But what’s the catch?

Oil-based inks rely heavily on petroleum products, which means they’re not very eco-friendly compared to water-based or vegetable-based alternatives. They can also emit strong odors and harmful chemicals into the environment.

Here’s a quick breakdown of oil-based inks:

• Strong and Durable: They provide rich, glossy colors and long-lasting prints.
• Slow-Drying: They typically dry slower than water-based inks, requiring longer production times.
• Less Eco-Friendly: Made from petroleum-based ingredients, they’re less sustainable and harder to recycle.
• Higher VOCs: They emit higher levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which can impact air quality and worker health.

In simple terms, while oil-based inks produce impressive visual results, they’re less kind to the environment and health than newer ink technologies. Today, many brands are shifting towards eco-friendly options like water-based and vegetable-based inks to promote sustainability and consumer safety.