Common Labeling Issues and Solutions

In product packaging, labels may seem like a small detail, but they play a vital role in brand messaging, product identification, and user experience. However, many brands encounter a frustrating issue during application or distribution — labels peeling off, bubbling, or smudging.

Why does this happen?

This article breaks down the common causes of label failure and provides practical solutions to help you choose the right materials and adhesives for your application.

Common Issues You Might Have Experienced:

• ⊗ Labels start peeling shortly after application

• ⊗ Bubbling or wrinkling after refrigeration or condensation

• ⊗ Labels smudge or scratch easily when touched

• ⊗ Labels shift or detach during shipping, even if they looked fine at first

Though these problems appear different, they often point to the same root causes: incompatible materials or inadequate adhesive performance.

Top 5 Causes of Label Adhesion Failure

1. Material-Surface Incompatibility

Certain packaging materials (like rough surfaces, PP plastics, or oily glass) have low surface energy, which makes it hard for standard adhesives to bond properly.

2. Incorrect Adhesive Selection

Not all labels can use general-purpose adhesive. For example, refrigerated or frozen products require freezer-grade adhesives, while oily containers need extra-strength bonding.

3. Environmental Factors Ignored

Temperature changes, humidity, or product handling during transport can impact label performance if not accounted for during material selection.

4. Contaminated Surface

Dirt, oil, moisture, or powder on the container before labeling can significantly reduce adhesive strength.

5. Improper Finishing or Lamination

Materials like coated paper may bubble if not laminated, while untreated PP film can crack or peel under bending stress or moisture exposure.

Solutions Based on Different Applications

A beverage brand experienced bubbling on their labels during seasonal changes. After reviewing their packaging setup, we discovered they were still using standard adhesive, even though their product had moved to cold chain storage. We upgraded their label to PP film + freezer adhesive + lamination, and the issue was fully resolved, with significantly improved adhesion performance.

Pro Tips Before Choosing Your Label

• Will the product be refrigerated or frozen?

• Is the container surface smooth, oily, or textured?

• Will the label face water, sunlight, or abrasion?

• What core size and layout does your labeling machine support?

Want to Avoid Peeling Labels? We Can Help.

We know that label requirements vary across industries and environments. That’s why we offer:

• Free material samples for testing
• Professional material and adhesive recommendations
• One-on-one support through the proofing process

We make sure every label not only sticks well — but represents your brand effectively.

Contact Us

Facing label issues? Message us to discuss your needs and let’s find the best labeling solution for your product together.