apparatus and method for removing an ink image from a plastic substrate , particularly a plastic container such as a cup , are provided . a solvent capable of solvating the ink image is utilized in order to de - ink articles so that they can be recycled and re - imprinted thereby reducing waste associated with printing line start up . as the articles may be intended for use with food and beverage products , a safe and non - toxic solvent may be selected . however , to ensure that the article is not contaminated with foreign materials prior to human use , the de - inked article may undergo a rinse and drying operation to remove solvent residues and uv light treatment to eliminate any harmful microorganisms that may be present on the article &# 39 ; s surfaces .