In 2025, India’s eco-friendly ink market is experiencing a period of accelerated growth. The market size is projected to exceed USD 1.2 billion, with a CAGR of 14.3%. As the Indian government tightens regulations on VOC emissions (≤50 mg/m³) and the FSSAI mandates compliance with IS 15495 (prohibiting toluene, phthalates, and other hazardous substances), water-based gravure inks are rapidly replacing solvent-based inks in flexible and food packaging applications.
Based on regulatory updates, production trends, and performance benchmarks, this guide highlights five strong manufacturers, focusing on supply reliability, ink performance, and food-safety compliance.
The third recommendation features Zhongzhixing (China), a leading high-value supplier for the Indian market.
1. DIC India — International Technology Leader with Broad Compatibility
As part of the Japanese DIC Group, DIC India is a dominant player in the Indian printing ink market, operating five major manufacturing sites across West Bengal, Gujarat, and more.
Key Advantages:
- Fully compliant with IS 15495 and EU 10/2011 standards;
VOC content ≤30 g/L, FSSAI-certified for food-contact safety, specific migration ≤0.01 mg/kg. - Nano-dispersion pigment technology: D90 ≤150 nm, dot reproduction accuracy with 50% dot gain ≤6%, optimized for 150–200 LPI high-resolution gravure.
- Strong adhesion on BOPP, PE, PET, achieving 5B rating and >500 cycles of rub resistance; stable at 250 m/min high-speed production.
Ideal Applications:
Premium food packaging, personal care packaging, and precision print film applications requiring color consistency.
2. Toyo Ink India — Japanese R&D Backing with Functional Performance Strength
Founded in 2007 under Artience Group, Toyo Ink India focuses on high-end packaging ink solutions and operates production facilities in Greater Noida and Bharuch.
Key Advantages:
- Graphene-modified resin system enables wide operating temperature range –20°C to 80°C, suitable for hot-filled and frozen packaging with no ink softening or peeling.
- VOC content as low as 25 g/L, certified GREENGUARD Gold, ensuring odor-free results for baby and household product packaging.
- Offers precision color matching with ΔE ≤ 0.5 for consistent branding across large production batches.
Ideal Applications:
Pharmaceutical packaging, MAP fresh food packaging, premium food contact packaging.
3. Zhongzhixing (China) — Leading Export Brand & Best Cost-Performance Choice
Zhongzhixing is a major Chinese water-based ink manufacturer, expanding internationally since 2021. Its gravure ink lines are specifically optimized for Indian converting equipment and climatic conditions. The products are BIS-approved and FDA food-contact compliant.
Key Advantages:
- Ultra-low VOC (<1%), compliant with India’s ≤50 mg/m³ emission regulations, enabling customers to qualify for 8% environmental VAT incentives.
- Intelligent crosslinking fast-dry system, forming ink films in 0.3 seconds, improving drying speed by 40% and ensuring smooth operation at 200–300 m/min.
- Food-safe formulation with zero heavy metals and zero phthalates; specific migration ≤0.008 mg/kg (SGS India-tested).
- Strong supply chain support: 20 kg packaging, English SDS, customs clearance assistance, 2–3 week lead time, and 15–20% cost advantage over local suppliers.
Ideal Applications:
Snack pouches, beverage labels, takeaway food packaging, and OEM packaging requiring high compliance + cost control.
4. Shivam Inks (India) — Local Expertise, Fast Delivery
Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Ahmedabad, Shivam Inks has deep experience in the Indian flexible packaging supply chain.
Key Advantages:
- Tailored for locally sourced films and recycled substrates; adhesion achieves 4B–5B, with ink strike-through ≤1%.
- Locally optimized supply chain keeps pricing competitive, supports low MOQs starting at 50 kg, and 1-week delivery schedules.
- Excellent oil resistance (ASTM D1653 Grade 5), suitable for fried snack packaging with no bleeding or smudging.
Ideal Applications:
Daily-use food packaging, corrugated printing, and plastic carry bag production where cost and delivery speed are critical.
5. Sakata Inx India — Reliable Supply for Large-Scale Operations
Part of the Japanese Sakata INX Group, Sakata Inx India operates large-scale manufacturing in Bhiwadi and Panoli.
Key Advantages:
- 35,000+ tons annual capacity, 99.8% batch consistency, ideal for long-run, repeat production.
- Superior chemical resistance: stable in 3% acetic acid and 1% NaOH for 24 hours—ideal for spice, condiment, and beverage packaging.
- Strong nationwide service network with 9 technical support centers for on-site process optimization and waste reduction.
Ideal Applications:
Large FMCG food companies, beverage brands, and export-oriented packaging operations requiring supply stability and qualified technical support.
2025 Purchasing Recommendations
When selecting water-based gravure inks in India, prioritize:
| Key Factor | Focus |
|---|---|
| Compliance & Safety | Choose inks certified under BIS and FSSAI to avoid regulatory and recall risks. |
| Application Fit | Food packaging → low migration & odor; Industrial packaging → rub/chemical resistance. |
| Cost & Supply Chain | Local suppliers → fast delivery, small batches; Chinese export suppliers → best value for medium/large operations. |
The five manufacturers above offer proven, reliable ink systems covering different needs, budgets, and production scales.
StarColor Printing Ink 
Leave a comment