Designing for Consumer Safety and Health

My dear friends, this blogs covers slightly different segment of packaging. It might not seem as urgent as other aspects yet plays the crucial part. I am referring to “Designing for Consumer Health”

It is first time that I have elaborated on this topic. Earlier it was mentioned in my previous books in few lines. But, this time I thought, I should communicate this topic with my readers. My fourth book “20 things I learnt from World’s top Packaging professionals” mentioned this topic in length. 18 years of my total experience has explored varied topics of packaging. And this is one unique topic.

Flexible packaging has given us many opportunities to go beyond the regular uses of packaging, such as food security and freight forwarding. From adhering to government regulations to fulfilling the customers’ demands, the scope of packaging seems to be ever – evolving. Designing shrink sleeve packaging with consumer safety and health in mind involves several considerations to ensure that the packaging not only protects the product but also does not pose any risks to consumers.

As consumers are becoming more aware, packaging fervently becomes the critical source of information about the basic details of products. Designing of these shrink labels are planned by keeping the designated areas for this information. Below are the points which are mentioned on shrink sleeves to keep consumers informed.

Layout & copy

Designing the layout on shrink sleeve packaging requires careful consideration of aesthetic and functional clarity. You may have noticed critical details are highlighted to get the consumer’s attention immediately. For instance, labels such as Non-Veg, Veg, Gluten-free, 100% Organic, No artificial sweeteners, and locally grown are usually mentioned at the top.

Health claims
Some key information claimed by brand owners is mentioned for consumers’ benefit. This information allows brands to improve trust and communication from the consumer’s perspective. Labels like FSSAI approved, High fibre, Fat- free, Wholegrain, Protein, Low salt, and Sugar content are common. Brands must show the top ingredients of the product in decreasing order for consumers to be aware.

Expiry details
The most critical information which is used not only by consumers but also by retailers, stockists, and freight forwarders. This information is one of the most noted points on packaging. With upcoming packaging trends, we can even clearly know the expiration of perishable products due to specialised inks and substrates. Key phrases vary according to the products – best before, use by, expiry etc.

Storage details
Including storage details on shrink sleeve packaging is crucial for ensuring that consumers know how to properly store the product to maintain its quality and safety. For example, temperature specifications on McCain Crispies and sunlight exposure warnings on various pharmaceutical drugs like eye or ear drops. Instructions may include refrigeration, freezing, vertical or horizontal storage, etc.

Shape & size
Sky is the limit if you want to aesthetically and functionally present a product in shrink sleeve packaging. Earlier, we were quite fixed with our approach to standardization. However, with customization, we have explored ways to pack in standup vacuum pack resealable pouches like “Nourish Dal” or pouches for small packs like “Maggi Pichkoo’’ single- serve packaging. Easy-opening and slim pouches are also appreciated.

On-the-go packaging

Packaging on the go isn’t a new concept anymore. We have sack packs that act as a large bowl for consumption. Convenience is best delivered in packaging.

Resealable opening

When we go on trips with various nuts, seeds, and snack options, resealable packaging allows us to eat and seal for next consumption. Don’t you think that packaging has eased our lives a lot? If you want to count your calorie intake, these resealable packages are the best.

Ease of serving

Packaging has eased our work in serving too. Remember old canned food that was tough to open? We either used a cutter or a small pulley to open it. Now we have easy, easy-open packaging to facilitate serving.

Counterfeit packaging solutions & technology 

This topic requires another chapter to discuss in detail. But long story short, counterfeit can destroy your brand and erode consumer trust. Any “me too” local brand may try to imitate the leaders. To keep the consumers aware, packaging serves as a distinguisher. You may use special inks, barcodes, or QR codes to highlight the original brand. The use of holograms is also quite effective.

This topic can be continued with various examples and references, yet it seem suitable to end the topic here. I hope you are able to get the desired knowledge and utilize it properly.

You may share your feedback and can even suggest me topics of your choice at info@tauruspackaging.com or call on +91 96674 00924.