Soy-based ink
Watch
The details
Glow-in-the-dark ink
We recently printed a children's book with glow-in-the-dark soy ink: a phosphorescent ink printed on top of a light-reflecting white under base. It's a time-consuming process, but the results are spook-tacular.
More on mcrlprinting.com: Why we only use safe, soy-based inks → Ink →
Common questions
Why does MCRL only use soy-based ink?
Producing safe products with the least impact on the environment is our number one mandate. MCRL always uses phthalate-free and lead-free soy-based ink, and will never print books with any trace of lead. That matters most for children's books.
What is wrong with phthalate and lead-based inks?
Phthalates are plasticizers that are also used in some printing inks, and the US National Toxicology Program lists one of them as "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen". Lead is a conventional ink ingredient that is extremely dangerous to consume, and the World Health Organization warns that lead is especially harmful to children.
Does soy ink look better?
Soy-based ink produces more accurate colours than petroleum-based inks. It also needs less ink for the same print, which makes it more cost-effective.
Is soy ink better for the environment?
Yes. It is renewable and biodegradable, and much easier to recycle than oil-based ink.
Keep exploring
Our print team will talk it through with you, or get an instant quote.
