In industries like pharmaceuticals, food packaging, and medical device manufacturing, ensuring product sterility isn’t just a priority—it’s a necessity. Enter gamma labels: specialised labels designed to withstand gamma radiation sterilisation without compromising integrity, readability, or adhesion. As a UK label printing specialist, we’re here to break down what gamma labels are, how they work, and why they matter.
What Are Gamma Labels?
Gamma labels are pressure-sensitive or thermal labels specifically engineered to endure exposure to gamma irradiation. A common sterilisation process that uses gamma rays (usually from Cobalt-60) to eliminate microorganisms. These labels must remain legible, adhesive, and chemically stable even after high doses of radiation.
They’re used on:
- Medical devices and surgical instruments
- Pharmaceutical packaging
- Food containers requiring sterilisation
- Laboratory supplies
Why Are Gamma-Resistant Labels Necessary?
Gamma radiation can degrade standard label materials, causing:
- Faded or illegible text
- Adhesive failure
- Discolouration or brittleness
- Barcode scanning errors
Gamma labels, however, are constructed with radiation-stable substrates, inks, and adhesives. This ensures labels stay intact throughout the sterilisation process, maintaining traceability and compliance with MHRA and EU MDR standards.
Key Features of Gamma Labels
✅ Radiation-resistant adhesives
✅ UV and chemical resistance
✅ High durability and tear resistance
✅ Compatibility with direct thermal and thermal transfer printing
✅ Compliance with ISO 11137 (Sterilisation of healthcare products)
Industries That Use Gamma Labels
- Healthcare: Tracking sterile surgical kits and instruments
- Pharma: Labeling sterilised drug packaging
- Food: Ensuring traceability of gamma-sterilised foods
- Biotech: Labeling sterile lab environments and research materials
Custom Gamma Labels – Tailored to Your Needs
At RGS Labels, we specialise in custom label printing including gamma labels. Whether you need high-resolution barcodes, variable data, or bespoke sizes and shapes, we can help you meet both operational and regulatory requirements.
We offer:
- Radiation-tested materials
- Tamper-evident options
- Custom branding and designs
- Rapid turnaround and UK-wide delivery
Why Choose a UK-Based Label Printing Partner?
Working with a local, trusted supplier means:
- Faster lead times
- Clear communication and tailored advice
- Compliance with UK and EU standards
- Reduced environmental footprint
Need Gamma Labels You Can Rely On?
If your products go through gamma sterilisation, don’t let substandard labels compromise your compliance. Our expert team at RGS Labels can help you select the perfect materials and specifications to ensure your labels remain intact—no matter what.
📞 Contact us today
