Siegwerk unveils mineral oil-free inks for safer pharmaceutical packaging in India

INDIA – German inks and coatings provider Siegwerk has rolled out a new line of mineral oil-free inks tailored for the Indian pharmaceutical packaging sector. 

These inks exclude mineral oils as deliberate additives, following a rigorous raw-material approval process managed by Siegwerk’s worldwide product safety experts.

The initiative supports heightened consumer safeguards and aids Indian drug exporters in complying with overseas standards. 

According to company details, this development ties into a recent $39.4 million investment in India, directed toward advancing research, production, and eco-friendly initiatives.

Siegwerk has maintained a presence in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, since 2006. Its local operations have seen revenues climb nearly threefold since 2015, surpassing $119 million.

Global attention on mineral oil hydrocarbons in printing materials has intensified lately. Traditional offset inks often harbor these compounds, which can seep into enclosed goods.

Particular concern surrounds mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons due to possible health risks, prompting various regions to explore bans. Several major corporations have already curbed their application.

India lacks dedicated rules for inks used in drug packaging at present. Siegwerk intends to collaborate with local authorities and trade associations to highlight risks and push for tougher protocols.

Alongside the ink series, the firm is channeling funds into coatings that promote recycling in multilayer setups. 

In a statement, Ashish Pradhan, president of Siegwerk Asia, remarked, “As a company focused on safety and sustainability, Siegwerk believes that the pharmaceutical industry must take a broader view, recognising that packaging materials play a role in maintaining product integrity.”

He added that the new systems offer Indian pharma brands a viable option meeting worldwide norms. 

Pradhan noted the inks undergo thorough testing to ensure no migration occurs into sensitive products.

In a related move, Siegwerk sealed a deal in August 2025 to buy specialty chemicals firm Allinova. 

The acquisition, valued at an undisclosed sum, integrates Allinova’s water-based dispersions and functional coatings into Siegwerk’s lineup. 

Company executives described it as a step to broaden offerings for paper mills and film producers, enhancing recyclable options across packaging chains.

Details from the deal indicate Allinova’s technologies will support Siegwerk’s sustainability goals, including reduced solvent use. 

One insider mentioned the merger accelerates development of barrier coatings that prevent contamination without relying on fossil-based elements.

Siegwerk’s efforts signal a broader industry shift toward verifiable safety in inks. With India’s pharma market projected to hit US$130 billion by 2030, such innovations could shape supply chains. 

Pradhan emphasized ongoing dialogues with stakeholders to foster adoption, predicting quicker regulatory responses in the coming months.