Experts from a printing company explained how pharmaceutical companies can work with premium packaging while complying with the regulator's labeling requirements. They also outlined solutions to common issues with 2D codes.
Problem 1: Applying the 2D code to metallized packaging
Pharmaceutical manufacturers often order packaging made from metallized cardboard for their premium product lines. This makes the package visually striking and attractive on pharmacy shelves. However, using metallized cardboard poses challenges when it comes to labeling.
"To achieve the metallic effect, the cardboard is laminated with film. The laminator produces a solid shiny sheet, onto which the rest of the finishing is applied," explained Elena Sochneva, a technologist at Promis JSC. "However, it’s impossible to apply the required marking — which by law must be on medicine and dietary supplement packages — onto such a material."
To comply with the regulator's labeling requirements, some pharmaceutical companies opt to replace metallized cardboard with silver paint. But this approach causes the package to lose some aesthetic qualities, making it appear less premium.
"The solution that allows our clients to preserve the beauty of the packaging while meeting the labeling requirements for medicines and dietary supplements is cold foil stamping. This method allows for an uncoated area on the package where the pharmaceutical manufacturer can apply the DataMatrix code," said Elena Sochneva.
The uncoated window can be located anywhere on the packaging, and its placement is chosen by the client.
Problem 2: Smudging of the 2D code
Premium packaging is typically made from GC1-class cardboard — a high-quality material with a coated layer so smooth that it may appear lacquered. The high smoothness and glossy effect also indicate that the cardboard has poor ink absorption, leading to another issue with applying the marking: the 2D code smudges off the surface of the packaging.
"Water-based inks do not absorb into the coated layer of the cardboard. The applied 2D code can smudge as the package passes through a conveyor belt, for example," commented Oleg Samsonov, head of the Service Department at Promis.
To address this issue, alternative inks need to be selected. Solvent-based inks are a good option because they dry faster, the expert added.
Problem 3: Reading the 2D code
The smoothness of GC1 cardboard can also make it difficult to scan the marking code. The glossy coated layer reflects glare onto the camera, causing difficulties during the verification of the 2D code. This problem is especially common when scanning markings on metallized packaging, where not only the area with the DataMatrix code but the entire shiny surface of the package creates reflections.
Oleg Samsonov shared a life hack to solve the issue: when scanning the code on the package, the lighting should be directed at an angle that prevents glare from reaching the camera.
When producing premium products, pharmaceutical companies need to obtain high-quality and aesthetically pleasing packaging from suppliers, onto which markings can be easily applied. The specialists at Promis have already found solutions to all the challenges that may arise when working with complex materials like metallized cardboard. Therefore, pharmaceutical manufacturers can continue to use their preferred materials, simply adding a designated area for the 2D code.
Source: PHARMPROM
