Understanding the role of plastic packaging in the food system

Food supply chains often involve large distances and multiple intermediaries. Each stage in the food supply chain, including production, processing, retail and consumption, drives a range of impacts on society and the environment. Packaging can facilitate the safe transit of food and thus plays a central role in the food system. At the same time, packaging practices and the nature of supply chains are under scrutiny as a result of growing concerns over waste and unnecessary resource use.

This is notably the case for single-use plastic packaging, now ubiquitous across supermarkets and take-away services. Food packaging has been demonstrably linked with high levels of waste, terrestrial and marine litter, as well as low rates of re-use or recycling. Food and beverage packaging items are amongst the most commonly found marine litter items in Europe. One estimate puts plastics from the global food industry to be responsible for 15 billion EUR in natural capital impacts annually. By 2020, Europeans are anticipated to consume 900 billion items of packaged food and drink annually. For this reason, alongside the recently published Plastics Strategy, news that the European Commission will develop a specific legislative proposal on single use plastics is highly welcome.

A leading justification for the use of single use plastics to package food is the role that packaging can play in extending shelf-life of food and consequently reducing food waste. However, per capita food and packaging waste rates in Europe remain amongst the highest globally, suggesting that packaging has not offered a silver bullet to the food waste problem.

New analysis of food packaging, as part of a study for Zero Waste Europe and Friends of the Earth, published today explores the interaction of packaging and food waste in more detail. research reveals that packaging plays diverse roles in different contexts. Some forms of packaging can be seen to drive food waste at different stages in the supply chain, be it in defining strict retail grading standards resulting in waste by processors, or as a result of multi-packs leading consumers to over purchase and resulting in more waste at home. Importantly, much of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) data used to demonstrate the “green credentials” of plastic packaging simplify the underlying drivers of food waste, as well as the end-of-life impacts of packaging waste. There is also a significant and often ignored knowledge gap regarding the risks associated with chemical migrations from different food contact materials – an issue not exclusive to plastics.

Overall, a tendency towards flexible, multi-material, and light weight packaging, often reasonably aiming at material savings or reductions in transit emissions, has resulted in packaging which is very difficult or impossible to recycle. More could be done to encourage a shift towards reusable packaging, or designs which can be readily recycled. One driver could be to develop extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes with fees modulated according to the reusability or recyclability of packaging

A growing trend towards on-the-go lifestyles is also an important driver for the consumption of food and beverage packaging – many single use plastics stem from take-away services and the rapidly growing sector of e-commerce/delivery services. These services present a particular challenge as their convenience is linked to pervasive use of single use plastics and in many cases a higher risk of littering. Continued growth in these services presents challenges for the delivering a circular economy more widely.

Despite these challenges, research suggests that opportunities for reducing both food and packaging waste exist in the development of short food supply chains (SFSCs) – for example in reducing the need for cold storage, light weight packaging, and reducing food miles. In SFSCs, durable and heavier reusable packaging becomes economically and ecologically viable, as transport emissions are reduced and reverse logistics are simplified. Many SFSCs also actively integrate agro-ecological production methods, and thus support further resource savings, such as reduced applications of fertilizers and pesticides. SFSCs, such as those formed by Community Supported Agriculture schemes, illustrate how sustainable agriculture and low packaging intensity can be combined. Nevertheless, there remains uncertainty on how such initiatives can be up-scaled as they remain peripheral to Europe’s food system.

Further down the supply chain, public awareness of the negative socio-economic and ecological impacts of single-use plastics has also grown. This has been met with a demand to integrate the principles of zero-waste into the food system – reflected in the growing number of package free retailers, or a revival of traditional markets. Likewise, some social entrepreneurs are applying the concept of zero waste to a range of food services, demonstrating that convenience and innovation does not necessarily mean waste.

A key conclusion from the analysis is the need to develop a holistic evidence based approach to the role of packaging in the food system. This would support the development of effective legislation which can tackle the dual challenges of food waste and packaging waste. Different measures, including reduction targets on single-use packaging, support for waste prevention systems (such as those implementing zero waste principles or reusable packaging) and market based instruments to prompt behavioural change, will be necessary to support the transition to a circular economy and sustainable food system.

FROM: IEEP

What is a Plastic Clamshell?

What is a Plastic Clamshell?
A plastic clamshell is a one-piece package comprised of two halves joined together by a hinge area allowing the structure to join and close. Plastic clamshells are sometimes called blister packs although there are differences as we note below. Plastic clamshells are named after the shell of a clam because it is very similar in form and function.

A blister pack is a pre-formed plastic package often used for small consumer goods and pharmaceutical products.

The main feature of a blister packing is its custom cavity and perimeter flange molded from a formable web of plastic. A blister pack will have a paperboard, plastic or specialty foil lid stock sealed to its flanges. A blister pack that folds onto itself is sometimes referred to as a clamshell package.

Blister Packaging Innovations Furnish Versatile Solutions

Blisters are among the most familiar packages found in retail settings. The versatile packaging solution encompasses a number of styles, including clamshells, trapped blisters and boxed blisters. With applications across the entire commercial packaging spectrum, blisters house diverse products, from high-end electronics to children’s toys.

The correct blister package for a given job depends upon the item to be enclosed and its unique marketing requirements, as well as any other brand imperatives. With these considerations in mind, producers from food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and other industries consult with packaging providers to meet their particular needs. And while the shared goal is bringing goods to market, there is more than one way to get the job done with blister packaging. Today’s trends include innovative advances like boxed blisters that use less material, and pharmaceutical blisters, which continue to grow more popular.

Weighing the Benefits of Blister Packaging
Each industry using blister packages selects them for unique reasons. For some, merchandising is an important consideration, as well as protecting goods. In other cases, blisters furnish the best path to regulatory compliance. Still other producers rely on tamper proof versions for enhanced security on retail sales floors. It is this versatility, which makes blisters ideal for so many different products.

Custom Forming – Blisters are formed using heat, or in some cases cold-pressed. As a result, they can be made in almost any conceivable shape, which often follows the contours of packaged items. Molding blister packages in precise shapes provides cushioning for individual items, which are securely cradled during shipment. And custom shapes also reinforce brand identity, as repeat customers begin to associate unique package shapes with their preferred products.
Visibility – In many cases, the closest thing to actually handling a product is a shopper’s ability to feel its outline through a molded blister pack. And since most packages are clear, the items inside are highly visibility to curious consumers. Without damaging them or creating shop worn goods, consumers get a feel for the heft of products, easily inspecting product features at the same time.
Merchandising Value – Blister packaging can be outfitted with hang holes and other merchandising features. And the glossy appearance of thermoformed plastic elevates perceived product value, making blisters appropriate for a wide range of price points.
Product Protection and Integrity – Keeping goods secure at each stage of the consumer supply chain is an essential feature of product packaging. And since rigid plastic packages offer built-in protection, blisters furnish adaptable solutions for a variety of goods. Not only are blister packs safe from tampering, but they can be outfitted with special materials to inhibit exposure to moisture, air and potential contaminants.

Boxed Blister Packaging
Blister packages are typically made of PVC, incorporating various supporting materials to complete each package. A blister card, for example, bonds the molded plastic feature to a sturdy backer designed for hanging or merchandising in a counter tray. And traditional “trapped” blister packages employ two cards or a folded card to entirely encapsulate the blister package seams.

Boxed blisters, on the other hand, perform similar functions, but don’t “trap” the blister package portion in the same way. Instead, boxed blisters are assembled by sliding the molded plastic forms into paperboard sleeves. The blisters are then held in place by folded tabs on the sleeves.

Steady Growth in Pharmaceutical Packaging
Foil Blister Packaging does not have the same history in the United States that it does in European markets. In Europe, a large share of pills, tablets, and capsules are dispensed from single-dose blister packs, while the United States has traditionally favored bottles and jars. Tides are turning, however, as pharmaceutical and supplement producers recognize the convenience and effectiveness of blisters. In addition to tamper-resistance and product protection, single-dose unit blisters increase patient compliance, by making doses easier to track.

Constructed of formed plastic sheets and foil or paper backs, blisters serve over the counter customers as well as prescription clientele. Within the global pharmaceutical packaging industry, blister packs are estimated to account for about 17% of the market. This already represents more than eight billion USD in annual revenue, but pharmaceutical blister packaging is expected to continue making gains over the next five years. New FDA regulations mandating single-dose packaging in hospitals can only add to the blister boom.

Between 2015 and 2019 the pharmaceutical blister pack industry is expected to grow by 6%, reflecting increased demand and blister packaging innovation. Boxed blisters and other responsible packaging practices will also gain ground, as consumers align themselves with brands that share their values. Economy, product integrity and versatile merchandising capabilities will continue to drive producers toward blister packaging solutions, but the ultimate test lies with consumers, who appear to be embracing the benefits of user-friendly blisters.

FROM:Assemblies Unlimited

Custom Clamshell Packaging Capabilities

Materials most commonly used for custom clamshell packaging include OPS, PVC, PETG and RPET. Other specialty materials are available based on your needs. For more information, contact us.

Industry-leading design and engineering expertise: Through our extensive experience and long history in custom packaging, we will create a custom plastic clamshell package which meets your specific needs and provides a superior visual presence over your competitors.

Highly competitive and rapid-turnaround tooling: Our top-notch tooling assures that your product gets to market faster, on time and on budget. Most tools are manufactured in 4-5 weeks.

Sealing capabilities: compatible with standard sealing equipment & processes across various industries including food, medical and retail clamshell packaging.

What is custom clamshell packaging?

Plastic clamshell packaging is a thermoformed plastic packaging designed to encapsulate and clearly display a retail product. The term clamshell refers to the hinging of the product similar to a “clamshell” that you may find at the beach. Some custom plastic clamshell packaging products will have a single hinge with the ability to also hang from a shelf. Other more complicated custom plastic clamshell packaging needs may require a multi-hinged design as well as a base for multiple display options.

Xunda Clamshell Packaging, Your Clear Plastic Packaging Manufacturer. If you are interested in our products. Please feel free to contact us. We are looking forward to building business relationship with customers worldwide.

Clear Plastic Clamshell0529

 

 

How Are These Various Packaging Industry Certifications Obtained?

Each certifying organization is different and will have different procedures. But basically the process will go something like this:

A packaging manufacturer decides on a certification it would like to obtain
The manufacturer will then purchase the certifying organization’s standards requirements and study them
The manufacturer will compare the standards and procedures it uses with the ones the organization requires
The manufacturer may hire a consultant to aide in implementing the standards and procedures if they feel they need help
If the manufacturer believes they are in compliance, they will pay for a registered third party to audit their facility
After the audit, they will address any non-compliance issues, and once those are taken care of, the packaging manufacturer will acquire their certification.
Usually these certifications need to be renewed (reviewed and paid for) every year or every several years.

What is a versa clam Clamshell?

A versa clam clamshell is a container with two halves that are hinged to open and close either at the bottom or the side of the package. Our stock clamshells are premade clamshells that come in many different shapes and sizes. It’s a very strong, robust package that is excellent for any product from small and light to large and heavy. It’s made of an eco-friendly plastic and protects and provides excellent visibility to showcase your product on a store shelf or hanging on a wall.

With versa clam clamshell packaging, an insert or backer card is often used. This card has information about your product and can be seen through the packaging. It helps draw attention to your product on the store shelves.

Clamshells packaging

Clamshell

A Clamshell Is a Container With Two Halves That Are Hinged To Open And Close, Just Like a Clam. It Is Very Strong, Robust Packaging And Excellent For Heavy Products. Often a Blister Card Is Used (But Doesn’t Have To Be) And Is Inserted, Not Sealed As In The Other Styles Of Blister Packs. “Feet” To Enable The Clamshell To Stand Upright On Store Shelves And/Or The Addition Of a Hang Hole Can Be Easily Included In This Style Of Blister. Clamshells Can Be Closed By a Snap-Shut Button Or Sealed Securely With Heat, Radio Frequency Or Uv Light. When Sealed In One Of These Latter Three Methods, They Can Be Frustrating And Even Dangerous To Open For Consumers, But Are Very Tamper Resistant As a Result. Tooling Costs Are More Expensive For Clamshells Than The Aforementioned Blister Styles.

Mock Clamshell

A Mock Clamshell Is a One Piece Blister Where The Blister Card Is Sealed To The Back Of The Blister. It Is Basically Quite Similar To The Full Face Blister Pack (See Above) Except There Is a Small Lip (About a 1/4”) That Extends Past Where The Blister Card Is Positioned. This Lip Is There To Enforce The Edges And Protect The Blister Card (Where All Your Awesome Graphics Are Printed) From Being Damaged From Potentially Rough Handling By Customers Or Store Workers. Mock Clamshells Are Often Half The Price Of Regular Clamshells.

2-Piece Clamshell (Clamshell Variation)

I’Ve Seen This One a Lot In Retail Stores. It Is Like a Hybrid Version Of a Mock Clamshell With An Added Flat Plastic Backing That Is Glued To The Blister Pocket.

Tri-Fold Clamshell

Generally Used When The Product Is Heavy And Unstable If Packaged In a Regular Clamshell, The Tri-Fold Clamshell Has Two Hinges That, When Folded, Create a Wide Triangular Bottom. This Provides a Very Solid And Steady Platform For Even The Most Awkward And Unbalanced Products.

Tri-Fold Clamshells Are Typically More Expensive And Have Higher Tooling Costs Than Other Types Of Clamshells.

Blister Pack Alternatives

The Following Are Not Technically Blister Packs And Do Not Use Preformed Blisters Made From Sturdy Pvc Plastic. They Instead Use Plastic Films That Are More Flexible And Yet Still Very Durable.

Skin Packaging

This Involves a Thin Film (Usually Dupont Surlyn®) That Is Placed Over The Product And The Paperboard Card. Heat And Sometimes Vacuum Is Applied In Order To Adhere The Film Tightly Onto The Product And Card. This Film Is Very Strong And Clear And Fits The Product Like An Outer “Skin”. The Product Is Completely Immobilized By The Skin Which Gives Added Protection To The Front Of The Card As Well.

Products With High Volumes Do Well With Skin Packaging. However, The Is a “Lesser Perceived Value” From Consumers On Products With Skin Packaging, So a Low Price Point For Your Product Is Important.

Lower Perceived Value Than Blister Packaging.

Skin Packaging Really Behaves Like “Skin” As It Covers The Product.

Stretch Pak (a.k.a Stretch Pack Or Stretch Card)

This Is Very Similar To Skin Packaging Except That The Backing Card Is Folded And Glued To Itself. The Product Is Surrounded By a Clear Plastic Film And Sits In a Die-Cut (Cutout) Area In The Paperboard Card. The Card Is Then Folded In Half And Sealed Onto Itself, So The Product Is Essentially Sandwiched Between The Two Cards Halves. This Allows For a Complete View Of The Product While Providing Plenty Of Eye-Catching Marketing Real Estate On The Paperboard Card. This Packaging Is Generally Designed For The Product To Stand Upright On Store Shelves Or Be Hung Using a Standard Die-Cut Hang Hole. Or Like In Costco Stores For Example, Standing Upright In Grooves Inside Tray Boxes.

Full 360˚ View Of The Product And It Can Stand On Its Own On Store Shelves Or Be Hung Using a Die-Cut Hang Hole.

Secure Seal Prevents Tampering And Product Shifting.

The Film That Secures The Product Is Also Very Resilient.

But As You Will See In The Next Image, Regular Blister Packs Are Not As Forgiving.

Skin Packaging And Stretch Pak Packaging Are More Environmentally Friendly Than Blister Packs. Costco Really Loves Stretch Pak Packaging.

I Hope This Gives You a Basic Idea Of The Different Types Of Blister Packaging As Well As Some Popular Blister Alternatives. Please Feel Free To Leave a Comment And Let Me Know If Everything Is Clear And Understandable Or If i’Ve Missed Anything.

Types of Packaging – The Blister Packaging

“Blister Pack” Is a General Term That Describes Packaging That Uses a Process Known As Thermoforming. Thermoforming Involves Heating a Sheet Of Plastic To a Temperature Where It Can Be Easily Formed And Molded Into Any Desired Shape. The Term “Blister” Refers To The Pocket Of Thermoformed Plastic That Covers The Product.

Blister Packaging Refer To a Variety Of Packaging That Have a Pre-Formed Plastic “Pocket” Or “Shell” (Where a Product Sits Securely In Place) That Is Most Often Heat Sealed To An Adhesive Coated Paperboard Card Or Foil Backing (Think Single Dose Pills Or Lozenges).

There Are Many Types And Variations Of Blister Packs In Use In The Retail Market.

Face Seal Blister

a Flanged Blister That Surrounds The Product And Is Heat Sealed To a Piece Of Paperboard. The Seal Is Only On The Flange While The Rest Of The Card Stays Uncovered.

For Heavier Products a Larger Flange (Or Different Blister Style – See Below) Is Generally Used.

This Is a Very Common And Inexpensive Blister Pack Style If Your Volumes Are High Enough (25k – 500k).

Full Face Seal Blister

Similar To The Face Seal, This Blister Pack’s Seal Extends To The Entire Face Of The Card. This Offers More Durability And Strength To The Edges Of The Card (Prevents Bent Corners) And Reinforces The Hang Hole As Well. In Addition, It Offers a Higher Perceived Value Because It Looks Nicer Than The Standard Face Seal Blister, But Of Course Is More Expensive.

Tooling Costs For The Heat Seal Can Be Expensive For These Face Seal Blister Packs, But a “Trapped Blister” (See Below) Doesn’t Require Heat Seal.

Trapped Blister

This Type Is Similar To The Previously Mentioned Blisters, But Instead Of Heat Sealing The Blister To The Card, It Is “Trapped” Between Two Cards. The Top Card Is Die Cut To Fit The Blister Where The Product Sits. Since Trapped Blisters Do Not Use Heat Sealing, No Expensive Heat Seal Tooling Is Required.

Full Card Blister

In This Configuration, The Blister Extends To The Full Size Of The Card As In The Full Face Seal Blister, But Instead Of Being Sealed To The Card, It Has Flanges That Wrap Around The Card. The Card Is Simply Slid Into Place And Is Sometimes Secured With a Staple.