MeadWestvaco says it has come up with a recyclable paperboard clamshell pack which will not only stop consumers having to fight their way into the container but still provides excellent tamper-evidence and protection against theft.
Citing evidence from the American market, the US-headquartered global packaging specialist claims consumers regularly emerge from their “battle” to open conventional plastic clamshell with injuries, puncture wounds, cuts and scratches. In addition, while plastic clamshells have cut theft, MeadWestvaco says some, such as those made from PVC, “offer only very limited recyclability”.
Conscious that one in five of America’s 43 million adults suffer some form of arthritis, the company has developed Natralock, a combination paperboard/clear APET clamshell, the bulk of which is derived from renewable resources, which is also “easy to open”. To create it, MeadWestvaco runs its unbleached kraft paperboard through a patented coating process which applies a heatseal material, as well as an optional, more tear-resistant material for premium applications. Graphics can be printed on a “highly receptive” clay-coated surface; MeadWestvaco says that there is significantly more facing area for than on traditional clamshells. The central “bubble” can be thermoformed from conventional polymers such as APET and RPET, as well as from biodegradables like PLA.
Don Hodapp, security packaging business development manager, says: “ Consumers mentally promote protected products into a more desirable category. In other words, the product must be more desirable because the retailer is going to great lengths to protect it. Natralock security packaging eases the dilemma by allowing retailers to maintain that perception of value and appeal with a wrap-friendly package.”
Hodapp admits the new pack will still need to be opened with scissors, but says the mainly paper construction should make opening “far easier” than with existing all-plastic clamshells. He adds: “Another selling point is a lower cost.”
MeadWestvaco is currently talking to potential users in the US and does not rule out a European launch this year.
