Getting a label to stay on

Supplement labels have an unusual problem: the mandatory copy is extensive, the container is often tapered, and the product it contains is a fine powder that gets everywhere.

The surfaces you are sticking to

Most supplement tubs are HDPE or PET, frequently tapered rather than straight-sided, sometimes with a textured finish. A tapered wall means a flat label will not lie down without conforming material or a die-cut shaped for the taper.

Pouches are a different problem again: a flexible substrate that moves, where a rigid label wrinkles.

What makes them fail

Powder on the container. The single commonest cause. A film of fine powder from filling and the adhesive never reaches the surface. Wipe every tub before labeling, not just the rim.

Static. Fine powders charge the container, which attracts more dust to exactly the surface you are about to label.

Taper and curvature, which peel a stiff facestock from the ends.

Packing too soon, before the adhesive has flowed and set.

The panel is large here

A Supplement Facts panel, an Other Ingredients line, a net quantity, servings per container, your name and address, allergens, directions, storage, and a structure/function disclaimer where you make a claim.

That is more mandatory copy than most categories and it is why supplement labels wrap so far around the tub. Check the printable area before ordering containers, because the panel is not negotiable and the type size for the Supplement Facts heading is prescribed.

Ordering and applying

Specify facestock and adhesive for the actual substrate and the actual taper, and get a sample applied to your tub rather than a flat proof.

Apply to clean, dry, room-temperature containers and let them stand a day before packing.

References