COVID-19 and its Effect on the Packaging Industry
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on various industries, including the packaging industry. Many notable changes and trends that emerged in the packaging sector as a result of the pandemic. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of hygienic packaging. There was a growing emphasis on tamper-evident features and packaging solutions that minimize direct human contact with products, such as touchless packaging options and antimicrobial coatings.
Here are some examples of touchless packaging solutions and tamper-evident features that have been developed or are being used in the packaging industry:
Touchless Packaging Solutions:
- QR Codes and NFC: Packaging with QR codes or Near Field Communication (NFC) technology can allow consumers to access product information, promotions, and other details simply by scanning their smartphones near the packaging, eliminating the need for physical contact.
- Voice-Activated Packaging: Some packaging designs incorporate voice-recognition technology, allowing consumers to interact with the packaging and access information or instructions without touching it.
- Motion Sensors: Packaging equipped with motion sensors can respond to gestures, such as waving a hand over the packaging to activate a feature or reveal hidden information.
- Infrared Sensors: Infrared sensors can detect the presence of a hand or object near the packaging and trigger a response, such as illuminating the packaging or playing a sound.
- Self-Opening Packaging: Packages that open themselves through mechanical or electronic means when a consumer approaches, eliminating the need for physical contact.
Tamper-Evident Features:
- Tamper-Proof Seals: These are seals that are applied over the opening of a package and break when the package is opened, indicating that the package has been tampered with.
- Induction Sealing: This involves using heat to bond a foil seal to the opening of a container. If the seal is broken or tampered with, it becomes evident.
- Tear Strips: Packaging with tear strips that need to be removed before opening provides clear evidence of tampering.
- Holographic Labels: Holographic or iridescent labels can be difficult to replicate and provide a visual indicator of authenticity.
- Microprinting: Tiny, hard-to-replicate text or images printed on packaging that can be easily damaged if tampered with.
- Serialized Packaging: Assigning unique serial numbers to packages allows consumers to verify the authenticity of a product online before opening the package.
- Color-Changing Inks: Inks that change color when exposed to specific conditions, such as heat or light, can indicate if a package has been exposed to tampering.
- Frangible Packaging: Packaging designed to break or shatter if tampered with, revealing any attempt to open the package.
- Embedded RFID Tags: Radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags embedded in packaging can be scanned to verify authenticity and track the package’s journey.
Furthermore, COVID-19 impacted the packaging industry by increasing the demand for packaging in certain sectors. With lockdowns and restrictions in place, there was a substantial increase in online shopping. This led to a surge in demand for packaging materials suitable for shipping, such as corrugated boxes and bubble wrap, as well as a focus on optimizing packaging for efficient shipping and protection. Additionally, as dine-in options became limited, there was a surge in food delivery and takeout orders. This created a need for packaging solutions that maintained food quality during transit and provided a safe and sanitary experience for customers. The cancellation of in-person events led to a need for creative packaging solutions for virtual events and promotional campaigns.
The packaging industry’s ability to adapt and innovate during this time played a critical role in addressing the challenges posed by COVID-19.