Actega and Living Ink launch algae-based UV flexo ink

Actega and Living Ink Technologies have launched ACTExact UV Black Algae Ink, the first commercially available UV flexographic ink formulated with a carbon-negative, algae-derived pigment, with its debut commercial application on beverage labels for Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages.

The ink uses Living Ink's Algae Black pigment, derived from discarded algae biomass and verified through a third-party life cycle assessment to carry a net carbon footprint of -4.16 kg CO2-equivalent per kilogram of pigment. The two companies entered a joint development agreement in 2024 to bring the formulation to UV flexo, a category Living Ink had not previously entered through a commercial ink manufacturer partnership.

Waiākea, which has been developing algae-based ink alternatives with Living Ink for five years, sponsored the commercial development and became the first food and beverage brand globally to deploy the technology across its supply chain. Labels were produced by NextGen Label Group, which integrated the ink into beverage label production following press trials, replacing 100 percent of Waiākea's black ink with the new formulation.

'ACTExact UV Black Algae Ink finally checks both boxes,' said Ryan Emmons, co-founder and CEO of Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages, referring to performance standards and carbon-reduction potential. 'None of the sustainable inks we have tested over the last decade have met both requirements until now.'

'Algae Black pigment was developed to reimagine how color can serve the planet,' said Dr Scott Fulbright, CEO and co-founder of Living Ink Technologies. 'Our long-term collaboration with Actega demonstrates how industry leaders can unite innovation and impact to deliver scalable, sustainable solutions.'

'ACTExact UV Black Algae Ink represents a meaningful advancement in both performance and sustainability,' noted Ben Lux, CTO of Actega. 'We're proud to bring to market an ink that not only meets high production standards but also helps our customers reduce their environmental footprint.'

The ink is compatible with conventional UV flexographic systems and is now available for trials and bulk ordering in North America and the European Union, with additional regional rollouts planned.