Weekly Roundup: Holographyx unveils blister pack anti-counterfeiting system, World Centric presents compostable can rings

11 Mar 2022 --- In packaging news this week, Holographyx launched a patented anti-counterfeiting system for pharmaceutical blister packs that enables printing of dosage and marketing information on the area surrounding the pill recess. Also, World Centric unveiled new compostable 4-can fiber carrier rings, and Berlin Packaging acquired United Bottles & Packaging in Canada.

In brief: Pharma packaging
Holographyx unveiled Holo-Blister, a new anti-counterfeiting system for pharmaceutical blister packs that have just been awarded patents in the US and Europe. The product is a unique and cost-effective method for applying holograms to the back of blister packs using conventional heat-seal blister packaging equipment. Holo-Blister holograms have been designed to only be visible behind each pill/capsule cavity on the back of each blister pack, thereby allowing the printing of dosage and marketing information on the area surrounding the pill/capsule recess.

Berry Global and Pylote, a key player in industrial mineral chemistry, launched a first-to-market multidose ophthalmic dropper combining a high barrier with unique antimicrobial protection properties. The new product combines Pylote’s mineral breakthrough innovation to help protect patients from the risk of microbial infections with Berry Global’s expertise in healthcare packaging design. Due to the mineral antimicrobial technology, this dropper is proven effective against Adenovirus type 3 Virus (conjunctivitis), Escherichia Coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria.World Centric’s compostable fiber carrier rings.

In brief: Fiber-based boosts
World Centric introduced new compostable 4-can fiber carrier rings. The company’s new Fiber Can Rings are made exclusively from annually renewable plant fibers instead of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE), commonly used with beer, soda and other cans, which can be harmful to the environment and wildlife. The new Fiber Can Rings provide a plant-based, compostable alternative that does not require petroleum, helps reduce carbon footprint, and keeps additional microplastics out of our oceans, forests, and landfills.

Dexter Mould Technology, a specialist in designing, developing, and building high-quality molds for the thermoforming process, joined PulPac’s global Dry Molded Fiber community. The community works to scale and support converters in the transition to Dry Molded Fiber technology to replace single-use plastic packaging and items. “The packaging industry is transforming, and we strongly believe in Dry Molded Fiber as a new standard for [environmentally] sustainable packaging. By applying our expertise and craftsmanship in mold-making to this pioneering technology, we can support existing and new customers in their transition to fiber-based alternatives,” said Jeroen Berns, sales manager at Dexter Mould Technology.Lecta’s EraCup Natural.

Lecta’s EraCup Natural achieved high-level recyclability recognition, according to the Italian Aticelca 501/19 system. EraCup Natural is a recyclable, biodegradable and polyethylene-free paper-based solution for paper cup manufacturing. The supplier said ots effectiveness has been proven in the most widely-used converting machines, the supplier says. It is the first product in Lecta’s new “Era” range of functional papers for nature-friendly packaging aligned with responsible consumption habits.

In brief: Acquisitions
Berlin Packaging acquired United Bottles & Packaging, a Canadian-based distributor of high-quality glass bottles and closures for the food and beverage end markets. Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Quebec, United Bottles & Packaging supplies bottles and closures for alcoholic beverages such as wine, spirits, beer, and cider, in addition to a wide selection of bottles and closures for food and non-alcoholic beverages. Known for its fast-from-stock inventory, United Bottles & Packaging also offers customers a suite of value-added services such as custom shapes and molds, warehousing and logistics, case-packed pallets, and customized boxes and caps.Dexter Mould Technology joined PulPac’s Dry Molded Fiber community.

Avery Dennison acquired TexTrace, a technology developer specializing in custom-made woven and knitted RFID products, which can be sewn onto or inserted into garments. TexTrace was formerly a subsidiary of Jakob Müller Holding, a leading Swiss OEM for the textile industry, located in Frick, Switzerland. The acquisition includes ownership of TexTrace’s intellectual property portfolio and its employees that will continue to be based in Frick, enabling Avery Dennison to continue to innovate and drive adoption within the apparel sector and unlock opportunities in non-apparel segments.

In brief: Community work
Smurfit Kappa provided 240,000 tons of excess soil to the “Park in the Past” project, a local heritage and conservation project in Wales, UK. The soil, which became available due to an expansion at its mold facility, was repurposed to create the foundation for an ambitious community development, including an authentic Roman fort, children’s adventure area, sensory spaces and rare species pond at the site of a disused quarry in North East Wales.

By Joshua Poole