If we realize a color from the Pantone® formula catalogue, why do we not get the correct color?

The catalogue Pantone® Formula Guide used in graphics, is printed by off-set system, therefore, if a different printing method is used (e.g.: flexographic), the employed colors will not have the same pigment type and tint strength. The Pantone formula is a good starting point, however, it is essential to consider that the addition of a basic color rather than another is necessary to obtain the desired shade (as a rule, an addition of 10-20% in respect to the initial quantity).

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Why do some water-based inks have this specific label?

Customarily water-based inks are not classified as dangerous products, nevertheless, in some cases they can be labeled as environmental dangerous. This happens when so-called “fanal” pigments are used. These kinds of pigments are frequently used in the graphics sector for their particular gloss and their intense shade: many colors present in the Pantone catalogue (fuxias, violets, and warm blues) are formulated with such pigments. These substances, being derivatives of aniline dyes, are classified as environmentally dangerous. Alternative products, characterized by less intense shade, are...

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Can the printed ink come into contact with food?

The current legislation relative to food contact refers to the D.M. 21/03/1973 (and its modifications) that establishes the rules related to the authorization and to the control of the suitability of objects constituted by different materials and intended to come into contact with foodstuffs. This decree states that…where the coloration is obtained by printing, it cannot be made on the side which has contact with food (Art. 31). The European Regulation (EC) N. 1935/2004 in force, requires that materials and objects (in their finished state) intended to be brought into contact with foodstuffs...

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