Implementing Braille printbar in labelling & packaging with Xaar’s Versatex printbar

Braille on medical packaging is a critical accessibility feature that enables blind and visually impaired individuals to independently identify products.

Regulatory requirements, particularly in the European Union, mandate Braille labelling on pharmaceutical packaging. In addition, draft regulation in Spain is proposing the mandatory use of Braille on packaged consumer products, such as: Food items (e.g., meats, milk, canned goods) and hazardous products (e.g., detergents, fertilisers, lighters). It is likely that European Union legislation will follow this. In the USA there is also increasing demand for Braille printing, although this is not yet mandated.

Although, Braille dot specifications are not regulated, they are recommended by certain ISO Standards. Traditionally, Braille is embossed onto cartons using embossing tooling, but advances in digital printing, such as Xaar’s Versatex printbar with high-build capabilities, offer new ways to add Braille without physical embossing. This also leads to the possibility of variable data Braille, for example allowing patient specific information to be printed on medicines.