Polytag, MCC team to expand traceable IML solutions

UK-based Polytag has partnered with Multi-Color Corporation’s (MCC) Global IML business unit to integrate UV tag technology into in-mold labeled (IML) packaging, expanding packaging traceability capabilities and supporting the next generation of connected packaging and recycling.

The partnership enables brands to embed Polytag’s invisible UV tag technology directly into IML packaging for the first time, extending digital traceability to applications where conventional labels may not be practical, including frozen food packaging and other demanding retail environments.

Readable by specialized detection units at material recovery facilities (MRFs), the UV tags function as a digital fingerprint, carrying packaging-specific data such as material composition, recycled content, manufacturing information, and material origin. The technology enables packaging to be identified and sorted based on attributes that improve recycling efficiency and produce higher-quality recycled material streams.

The companies recently demonstrated the technology on Happy Cow branded IML tubs during an event hosted by GS1 and optical sorting specialist Pellenc ST, illustrating how connected packaging and advanced sorting technologies can improve material recovery and traceability for IML packaging.

In addition to supporting advanced recycling, the data collected through the Polytag platform provides brands with insights into post-consumer packaging recovery, helping inform packaging design, improve recyclability, and potentially offset Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) costs. The technology has already been deployed on milk bottles for retailers including Waitrose and Ocado.

“Working with MCC allows us to extend the reach of our technology, and scale into new packaging formats, helping brands access valuable recycling data while preparing for the future of connected packaging and digital product information,” says Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag.

MCC said the partnership reflects the growing demand for greater packaging transparency and digital product information as brands prepare for evolving sustainability and regulatory requirements.