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The Challenge
Today, many consumer products ranging from health and beauty aids, pharmaceuticals, toys, hardware items, consumer electronics to a host of other products are packaged in what is called blister packaging. Blister packaging is an economical packaging alternative that enables the consumer to see a product enclosed in clear plastic. The clear plastic, which surrounds the product, is generally encased in paperboard, where graphics are printed. The packages are often placed on pegboards or display racks that are easy for retailers to stock and for consumers to find.
Tampering with these packages and pilferage have become serious issues. Some retailers have even had to move their more valuable products behind the counter, reducing visibility and sales. In response, some manufacturers have switched to larger, more-costly all-plastic clamshells that are welded shut to prevent ease of opening in the retail outlet. |
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The IP Innovation
To help packaged goods companies and others better protect their products, International Paper has developed Everest® Safe-Pak, the first tear-proof, fold-over blister packaging paperboard. The product is exposed under the clear plastic, but the fold over paperboard adheres to itself and prevents easy opening. With up to five times the tear resistance and nearly double the puncture resistance of current fold-over boards, it provides far-greater tamper- and pilfer-resistance. It is child-resistant (for example, with pharmaceuticals) and is an economical alternative to plastic clamshells.
Everest Safe-Pak offers excellent printability. And because the board folds over on itself, both sides of the package can maximize manufacturer brand awareness. The patent-pending board also enables packagers to run their packaging equipment more efficiently and converters to have increased throughput. This remarkable board also seals at lower temperatures than competitive boards. This can be significant for the blister packaging of products such as heat-sensitive pharmaceuticals. |
