Tamper-evident packaging isn’t always top of mind. In fact, the average consumer often takes it for granted. However, if a package shows an obvious sign of alteration, there may not be anything that more quickly alarms the end user.
Advances in food safety, plant security and packaging have eased the worries of many shoppers concerned about their foods’ integrity. Dennis Gunnell, vice-president of sales and marketing, Formost Fuji, said improvements along the entire food production chain have drastically limited the possibility to adversely alter products.
“Bakers’ ability to control their entire process from start to finish — and control who has access to it — is much better than it used to be,” Mr. Gunnell said.
The emphasis on tamper evidence has somewhat taken a back seat to decisions on seals, closures and resealability that offer some level of product security anyway. However, the threat of a malicious person injecting or adding any foreign substance or other contamination into a packaged food remains a real fear. Baking and snack companies must create safe, secure seals that clearly show any signs of being previously opened while, at the same time, provide an easy-to-open package that limits wasted material.
Every application is different. As a result, food producers need to conduct an in-depth analysis of their product portfolio and collaborate with equipment manufacturers to come up with a proper solution tailored to their operation.
“When deciding on your packaging, you have to weigh the benefits against the costs and make sure it doesn’t cause a hindrance to the consumer,” said Justin Atkins, director of sales for Bettendorf Stanford. Consumers want simple, safe packaging and bakers must walk a fine line between providing secure and practical packaging.
