"The biggest issues in proofing for packaging relate to variability of substrates," confirms Latran's Deroo, adding, "When you image, you want to ensure 100 percent pigment transfer to the substrate." Latran Technologies claims its patented LAT technology limits troublesome dot gain and achieves high repeatability by transferring pigmented inks directly to the substrate, thereby eliminating the variability of stock color without resorting to intermediate processing or color management. Thermal proofing is fine for most substrates, Deroo says, including board and foil-faced, embossed and refractive surfaces, making it a reliable, capable tool for packaging applications. Exceptions include some plastics and polyesters that can't survive the temperatures.