Best Label Materials for Frozen and Refrigerated Food Products

710481
Jun 25
2 min read

Updated: Jul 3

(2025 Guide for Food Brands & Manufacturers)

If you're in the business of selling frozen or refrigerated foods, you already know how important labels are — not just for branding, but for surviving cold, wet, and extreme environments. Using the wrong label material can lead to peeling, smudging, or even regulatory non-compliance.

So, what’s the best label material for frozen and chilled items? Let’s break it down.

Why Frozen Food Labels Need Special Materials

Unlike room-temperature items, frozen and refrigerated products face moisture, condensation, and extreme cold. Labels in these conditions must:

Stick reliably on frosty or moist surfaces
Resist smudging or fading
Stay intact during freezer cycles and transport
Meet food-safe and compliance regulations

👉 Request a Free Quote

Quote

Top Label Materials for Cold Storage Products

1. BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene)

Best for: Ice cream containers, frozen meat, seafood packaging

Waterproof and oil-resistant
Comes in white, clear, or metallic finishes
Works well with strong freezer adhesives
Durable and cost-effective

💡 Pro Tip: Choose clear BOPP for a “no-label” look on transparent containers.

2. Polyethylene (PE) Labels

Best for: Flexible packaging, pouches, and squeeze bottles

Flexible and moisture-resistant
Adapts to curved surfaces and freezer pouches
Ideal for packaging that might bend or compress

3. Vinyl Labels

Best for: Heavy-duty freezer use, outdoor storage

Ultra-durable and highly resistant to temperature swings
Often used for long-term cold storage
More expensive but great for rugged applications

4. Paper Labels with Freezer-Grade Adhesives

Best for: Budget-conscious brands or inner packaging

Economical option
Requires a special freezer adhesive to stick properly
Not waterproof, so avoid for exposed packaging

⚠️ Use paper labels only for inner wraps or dry, packaged frozen goods with protective outer layers.

What About Adhesives?

Choosing the right adhesive is just as important as choosing the label material.

Freezer-grade adhesives:

Can be applied to already frozen surfaces
Maintain stickiness even at -20°C or colder
Resist edge-lifting from condensation

Tip: Ask your label supplier for “permanent freezer adhesives” compatible with your packaging material (plastic, cardboard, glass, etc.).

Label Coatings for Extra Protection

For refrigerated and frozen goods, consider:

Lamination: Adds a waterproof and scratch-resistant layer
UV coating: Protects against light exposure (ideal for glass door freezers)
Matte or gloss finish: Depending on the look you're going for

Things to Consider Before Choosing a Label Material

What is the surface of your packaging? (Plastic, glass, cardboard?)
Will the label be applied before or after freezing?
Will there be condensation at the point of labeling?
Do you need removable or permanent labels?
Do you want a sustainable or recyclable option?

Need Help Finding the Right Label for Your Product?

At Priority Label, we specialize in custom label solutions for frozen and refrigerated food products. Whether you're launching a new ice cream brand or repackaging ready-made meals, we’ll help you choose the perfect label material and adhesive for your needs.

✅ Waterproof & cold-resistant✅ Food-safe adhesives✅ Custom shapes, sizes, and finishes✅ Fast turnaround and Canada-wide delivery