Low surface energy plastics
Most supplement tubs and bottles are polypropylene (PP) or HDPE. These are low-surface-energy plastics: adhesives struggle to wet out on them. A general-purpose adhesive that is fine on glass can lift from a PP tub within weeks. Ask for an adhesive rated for PP and HDPE.
The curve fights the label
A stiff label on a tight curve wants to spring back flat, and the ends lift first. Thinner, conformable PP films follow the curve. On small bottles, avoid thick papers and heavy laminates.
Cold, damp or dusty containers
Labels applied to cold tubs straight from a warehouse, or tubs with condensation or powder on the surface, won’t bond. Apply at room temperature to clean, dry containers.
Give it time
Adhesive bond builds over about 24 hours. Labelled tubs packed straight into a cold van can fail before the bond forms. Leave them at room temperature first.
Our default for tubs
White PP, a high-tack permanent adhesive and a laminate. See protein tub labels for the full spec.
Not legal advice. This guide covers the general rules for food supplements sold in Great Britain. Check your own product with a regulatory adviser, your local Trading Standards team or your Primary Authority partner.