Differences between labels for cosmetics, wine and food

Do you know why there are so many differences between labels for cosmetics, wine, and food? It’s not just a matter of aesthetics: each sector has its own technical, regulatory, and design needs. Ignoring this can result in a loss of brand identity and even legal noncompliance.

At Adhesivas Ibi, we’ve been advising companies in various sectors for years to ensure their labels not only meet technical standards but also communicate and sell. We know that a label isn’t just a decoration: it’s part of the product.

If you want to understand why not all labels are the same and what you should consider to get yours right, keep reading.

Labels for the cosmetics sector: durability and sophistication

Cosmetic products are used daily and exposed to moisture. Therefore, their labels must be durable and also convey valuable information.

What labeling regulations are mandatory for cosmetics?

Cosmetic labeling is regulated by Regulation (EC) 1223/2009. This regulation requires the inclusion of INCI ingredients, warnings, expiration dates, and the data of the person responsible.

What plastic materials guarantee durability against oils and creams?

For oil-based products such as creams or body oils, labels should be made of plastic films such as polypropylene. This is because they maintain legibility and durability despite use.

How to choose an adhesive that can withstand bathroom moisture and flexible packaging

The humid bathroom environment demands high-tack acrylic adhesives. This is because they maintain their adhesion even in soft tubes or moist jars.

What finishes (stamping, relief varnish, soft-touch) communicate luxury and quality?

For premium brands, labels can be metallic foil stamped or embossed, creating a label similar to a personalized wine label.

Labels for the wine sector: tradition and resistance

Original wine labels must reflect history, identity, and quality. They must also withstand moisture, handling, and cooling.

What textured papers (laid, embossed, cotton) are used to convey exclusivity

Textured papers, such as cotton or laid paper, are common among personalized wine bottle labels. These are common for signature wines or limited-production and artisanal wines.

How to ensure your wine label can withstand immersion in an ice bucket

To avoid wine with no label after refrigeration, moisture-proof paper with special adhesives for low temperatures should be used.

What is the function and requirements of the back label, collar and capsule?

These three elements serve both an informative and protective function for the product. Therefore, their selection, both technical and aesthetic, is vital.

What is the impact of dry embossing and stamping on high-end wines?

On wine labels, embossing and stamping reinforce the exclusive character and market positioning of the label. They also protect the product and complete the brand design.

Labels for the food sector: safety and functionality

In food, transparency and food safety are the priority, without neglecting functionality, design, and durability.

Which European regulation (EU 1169/2011) governs consumer information (allergens, nutrition)?

European Regulation (EU) 1169/2011 requires food labels to clearly display the product’s ingredients, allergens, and nutritional values. It also establishes the minimum font sizes required for legibility.

Which adhesives and materials are certified for indirect food contact?

For wine and food labels, adhesives such as hot-melt or UV-curable adhesives with low migration, certified by European regulations, are used. The specific formulation and migration test results are relevant, as not all commercial products are suitable.

How do you address labeling for frozen or refrigerated products?

Special adhesives are used on wine bottle labels, as well as on frozen food labels, that maintain adherence at low temperatures. This ensures traceability throughout the label’s shelf life.

What are functional labels (removable, resealable, thermochromic) and how do they help consumers?

Wine label design is considered functional when it allows for reusing containers, controlling temperature, or visualizing whether the product has been opened. This adds value and enhances the experience.

How to choose the right material and adhesive for your product?

Now that we’ve seen the differences between labels for cosmetics, wine, and food, it’s important to know what to look for when selecting the material. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, as the choice depends on the type of packaging and also on the brand’s preservation and positioning.

Factor 1: Packaging (glass, PET plastic, flexible packaging, rough cardboard)

For Rioja wine labels or any food or cosmetic product, the surface must be taken into account, as this determines the adhesive and finish. For example, rough cardboard requires materials with high opacity and excellent adhesion.

Factor 2: Storage conditions (humidity, freezing, exposure to fats)

Temperature, grease, and humidity directly influence the durability, as well as the design, of wine and other product labels. Therefore, it’s advisable to conduct specific tests based on the environment of use.

Factor 3: Your brand positioning (premium, organic, mass-market)

For wine bottle labels, quality and design have the power to position your brand, as gourmet products emphasize premium finishes. Likewise, eco-friendly brands opt for recycled paper, and for mass-market products, designs that facilitate the purchasing decision are sought.

At Adhesivas Ibi we manufacture the technical solution for your sector

At Adhesivas Ibi, we are experts in the differences between cosmetic, wine, and food labels. Therefore, we understand your needs and develop customized solutions tailored to your product.