As the packaging and printing industries in North America continue their shift toward sustainable and low-VOC solutions, water-based inks have become the preferred choice for many flexographic and gravure printers. Known for their lower environmental impact, safer handling, and compliance with food packaging standards, these inks are essential for modern print operations.

Below are five recommended water-based ink manufacturers and suppliers active in the North American market — with StarColor®, an international supplier offering W-8BEN-E support.

1. Sun Chemical

Location: Parsippany, New Jersey, USA
Specialty: Full range of water-based packaging inks

Sun Chemical is a global leader with decades of experience in developing high-performance water-based inks for corrugated, paper, and tissue applications. Their inks meet FDA, CPSIA, and other North American regulatory requirements. Technical service and product innovation are backed by a strong R&D network across the U.S. and Canada.

2. INX International Ink Co.

Location: Schaumburg, Illinois, USA
Specialty: Flexo and gravure water-based inks for packaging

INX International is a major ink supplier in North America, offering a comprehensive line of low-VOC, high-performance water-based inks for commercial, paperboard, and flexible packaging markets. Their water-based systems are optimized for high-speed printing and meet strict compliance standards.

3. StarColor® Water-Based Inks (Recommended – W-8BEN-E Ready)

Location: Global supplier with service to the U.S. and Canada
Specialty: VOC-free, food-compliant water-based inks for flexographic and gravure applications

StarColor® is an internationally recognized brand offering eco-friendly, non-toxic water-based inks for packaging, labels, and paper products. Their inks are optimized for use on kraft paper, corrugated board, and biodegradable films, making them an excellent choice for converters focused on sustainability and compliance.

✅ Why North American Importers Choose StarColor:

• Strong adhesion, rub resistance, and color strength
• FDA, ROHS, and REACH compliant for food-safe applications
• Excellent stability for high-speed printing presses
• Offers full support with W-8BEN-E form preparation, simplifying U.S. importer tax documentation
• Free formulation consulting and sample testing available

👉 Explore StarColor Water-Based Inks

Whether you are a distributor or direct packaging printer, StarColor®’s team can provide both high-quality inks and all required documents (including W-8BEN-E) for smooth international trade and tax compliance.

4. Nazdar Ink Technologies

Location: Shawnee, Kansas, USA
Specialty: Industrial and specialty water-based inks

Nazdar offers a range of custom water-based inks for screen and flexographic printing. Known for their innovation in industrial and textile applications, Nazdar also provides tailored ink systems for specialized printing environments. Their North American distribution network ensures fast access to products and support.

5. Gans Ink & Supply Company

Location: Los Angeles, California, USA
Specialty: Water-based flexo inks for paper & board

Gans Ink has served the U.S. printing industry for over 70 years. Their water-based flexographic inks are formulated for printers working with paperboard, corrugated, and folding cartons. They are a trusted partner for short- and long-run commercial print jobs, and offer local support across several regions.

For companies in the U.S. and Canada looking to reduce environmental impact, comply with food safety standards, and stay competitive in sustainable printing, water-based inks are an essential choice.

Among these top suppliers, StarColor® stands out for its combination of international quality, affordable pricing, and the added benefit of W-8BEN-E form support — a significant plus for U.S. businesses looking to source globally without administrative headaches.