Choose a labelling method that fits your kitchen.
Handwritten labels, printer templates and connected software can each support a labelling process. Compare how your team enters information, checks it and keeps it current.
Three typical workflows
Handwritten labels
Pen and tape, written from the kitchen's own records.
A dedicated labelling machine
The supplier's device and the supplier's label rolls.
InstaLabel
Software on the printer already installed, or a supported Android printer.
Compare the work behind the label.
| Consideration | Handwritten labels | Standalone printer/template workflow | InstaLabel workflow |
|---|---|---|---|
| Item information | Written from the kitchen's records | Entered or stored according to the printer/software | Reused from saved item information |
| Formatting | Depends on the written format | Depends on configured templates | Uses the available kitchen label layouts |
| Dates | Worked out and written by staff | Depends on template/software capabilities | Calculated from configured date rules and reviewed by staff |
| Allergen information | Checked and written by staff | Depends on entered information and template | Prepared from recorded ingredient/allergen information |
| Recipe changes | Update records and future labels | Update relevant templates or stored items | Update affected saved items and check subsequent labels |
| Printing equipment | No printer required | Hardware and software requirements vary | Desktop PrintBridge or supported Android setup |
| Records | Separate records may be maintained | Depends on the system | Available print history alongside other kitchen records |
| Costs | Materials and staff time | Hardware, supplies and any software fees | Subscription, appropriate hardware and supplies as applicable |
Capabilities vary between products. This compares typical workflows, not every competing brand or model.
Handwritten labels compared with printed labels.
Drag to compare a handwritten example with a printed InstaLabel label. Check that names, dates and allergen information are readable before you apply a label.
Run a small, realistic trial.
Choose a few items your team labels regularly. Include a longer ingredient list and a supplier substitution. Check the time needed to prepare, review and print the labels, then inspect the result on the containers you actually use.
- Readable at the actual size
- No clipped text
- Dates understood
- Changes easy to maintain
- Hardware works at the intended station
Compare the whole setup.
Consider the subscription, printer, label stock, setup work and staff time together. Use measurements from your own trial instead of a universal cost-per-label or return-on-investment promise.
Compare InstaLabel using your own items.
See the workflow in a demo or try it with a representative selection from your kitchen.