The AMC historical spy drama “Turn” highlighted many of the creative practices that the revolutionaries utilized to confuse and evade the British soldiers. Among the common practices that prominently were featured was the use of invisible inks to avoid exposure should the message get into the wrong hands. Technology today has elevated the capabilities of inks not just for communications, but also for branding aspects within the consumer packaged goods market.

Beverage-makers today are turning to inks and coatings to create a deeper purpose and connection with consumers and the products they purchase, experts note.

In addition to branding aspects, suppliers note that beverage-makers also want inks that clearly communicate food safety and efficacy aspects.

“Quality inks deliver excellent printer and code performance,” says Sherry Washburn, business unit manager for supplies at Wood Dale, Ill.-based Videojet. “Inks formulated for coding and marking allow beverage manufacturers to identify dates, lot and batch numbers, and other manufacturing information directly on bottles, cans, pouches, boxes, cases and pallets. Unique codes fight product diversion to unauthorized channels and counterfeiting. Clean, clearly printed information like ‘best-by’ dates can enhance a consumer’s perception of the brand.”