The pandemic, resource and labor shortages, and more have noticeably altered the food packaging industry this past year. With some of the new trends being years in the making and others skyrocketing to the top with the recent circumstances, here are some of the top food packaging trends for 2022.
In many industries, heat-sealed pouches have become an efficient and cost-effective way to send product samples, and sometimes even products themselves to customers. Heat-sealed packets are highly versatile as they can be made with many different materials and come in many different sizes. Because of their versatility, they are used in many industries for many different kinds of products. And a new demand for custom samples and products has risen in consumers that make re-sealable and disposable pouches as a good way to fulfill lot size one orders for small items. The small and portable pouches are also perfect for the current grab n’ go culture. Anything from snacks to beauty creams to medicine, the pouches can hold a little bit of everything and fit easily inside bags. Looking to start using heat-sealed sample packets or looking to automate your pouch packaging process? From verifying barcodes to labeling pouches, there are many opportunities for automation. Here’s our guide on automating your pouch packaging process.
In the food and beverage industry, food safety is a top priority. Keeping a sanitary environment at all stages of the food packaging process is vital for the safety of customers and the bottom line of the business. A joint study by the Food Marketing Institute and Grocery Manufacturers Association found that on average food recalls cost food companies $10 million in direct costs, this number doesn’t even include the damage to the brand’s reputation and the loss in sales while the company works to regain public trust. Investing in food safety as a business could save millions of dollars in legal damages in the long run.
When identifying which print and label options to use on your production line, there are a few factors you should keep in mind before making your decision. The first is your business model; you’ll want to be sure the printer and label application you choose supports your company’s processes and offers an opportunity for profit. You’ll also want to take into consideration the type of product or products the label will be printed on. The needs of your product(s) should directly influence which print/labeling method is right for you.
In this blog, we dive into the top five print and label methods to consider adding to your production line. Integrating equipment into your automation process that supports these efficient labeling and printing techniques is an excellent way to increase efficiency, output, and quality on your production line.
In order to understand tax stamps and the process for ensuring secure and safe tax stamp application, there are a few components you must first understand. In this blog we’ll cover what a tax stamp is and what makes it different from other consumer stamps. We’ll also share common industries who may use tax stamps and identify automation equipment that could increase your packaging efficiencies.
If you’re looking to learn more about proven labeling techniques for automatic labeling and what’s needed for your label applicators, this blog is a great place to start. While there are many techniques in the industry, wipe-on labeling, tamp label applicators, and blow-on labels are three techniques we recommend for successful automatic labeling. Let’s dive into each technique with a bit more detail.
1. Wipe-on Label Applicator
Sometimes referred to as “merge” labeling; wipe-on labeling is where a label is dispensed in the same direction of flow as a product when a label is being applied. This is an automatic labeling technique that is widely used in the industry but requires precise set-up for optimal production speeds and quality output. It is also used for products with irregular shapes and surfaces that are not flat (source).
Wipe-on label applicators typically require the base product to be moving and consistently presented to the labeler. While the product moves towards the labeler, a free rotating roller or brush is used to aid the transfer of the label onto the moving product. From there an encoder can be used to track the speed of the product the label will be applied to so the labeler can apply accurately if the product speed might vary.
For this technique to be successful, your automatic labeler should have either a single axis or multiple axis motor. A single motor will assist with unwind, rewind, and drive; however, it will likely require clutching mechanisms for the unwind and rewind functionality. Whereas a multiple axis motor separately powers the unwind, rewind, and drive.
High-Speed Applications
For wipe-on labeling applications requiring higher speeds, a vacuum box or powered unwind may be implemented. (See the third technique to learn more about vacuum/blow boxes and blow-on labeling.) To meet these high-speed and tight accuracy requirements, a second stage may be added to the labeler such as:
Vacuum belt with motor drive: this option allows the label to be dispensed with the adhesive open (non-adhesive side facing the vacuum belt). The vacuum belt can then adjust position or speed to accurately apply the label such as using Multifeeder’s Accutipping controls.
Driven rotary vacuum wheel: this can transfer the label from the labeler to the product in a second stage for added speed or accuracy, similarly using servo controls such as Multifeeder’s Accutipping controls.
2. Tamp Label Applicator
A tamp applicator is a contactless technique for applying smaller labels on products. It is most commonly used on print and apply labelers; however, this technique can also be used on wipe-on label applicators for 3D products or hard-to-reach label placements (i.e. recessed areas). MFT 150pa Print and Apply Automatic Label Applicator
Tamp labelers place the label onto an air cylinder tamp pad or vacuum tamp pad before placing the label onto the product. As the product moves down the conveyor, a pressure sensor (such as Multifeeder design) can be used to indicate if the tamp pad comes into contact with the product. This is especially valuable for variable height products or more intricate products. Such products may also benefit from a complex tamp pad that can place a corner label on more than one surface.
To support a complex tamp pad, a second air cylinder or a hinge (spring-loaded or gas shock) may be required for the second side. A pneumatic style smart tamp or heavy-duty smart tamp could also be used to prevent any tweaking or sensitivity to dirt; learn more about the smart tamp we use in the MFT 150pa Print and Apply Automatic Label Applicator. Additionally, a tamp pad may feature vacuum to hold the label while an airblast is used to release the label onto the product.
3. Blow-on Label Applicator
This sophisticated technique is sometimes used to replace the industry-favorite wipe-on labeling; although it is slightly less precise. Blow-on label applicators use a controlled blast of compressed air to place labels at high application rates. (source 1, source 2). This technique is commonly used for blow labels on coupons and other high-speed applications that require a contactless application (i.e. glass or other fragile products).
A blow box or vacuum box can be used in a similar way when paired with a wipe-on labeler. Oftentimes the vacuum/blow box uses a muffin fan to create a vacuum effect by holding the label to the bottom surface of the transfer device. The wipe-on labeler will index the label onto the bottom surface of the vacuum/blow box, which is then held in place by vacuum. When a product traveling below the box gets to the location the label is to be applied, an air blast releases the label onto the product below. This feature allows the labeler to be placed either in-line or perpendicular to the base product flow depending on label orientation requirements.
Defining which automatic labeling technique is best for your product or application can depend on a series of variables. If you’re interested in learning more about these techniques and other labeling solutions for your product, we’re happy to help. Get in touch with one of our automation and labeling experts by contacting us here or check out some of our labelers here.
Send samples of your labels and base product to us for a complimentary evaluation and test video. Click the button below to get started.
Tags: Labelers, Integrated Systems
The cannabis industry is a multi-billion dollar industry that has no intention of slowing down. It’s estimated that by 2022, the legal-marijuana industry could impact the economy by $77 billion (source). If you’re in the business of cannabis production, you’ll inherently need to think about the role packaging plays in your process. With packaging comes the need for cannabis labeling and safety protocols. This blog shares a few of the steps, products, and equipment worth trying for cannabis labeling. Above all, we hope one of these steps helps you to have a blooming business in 2021.
First, you’ll need something to contain your cannabis. For concentrated versions of the plant, cartridges and containers are common options. Versions of these concentrate packaging may include glass concentrate containers, vape cartridges, oil cartridges, AVD cartridges, and Ccell cartridges. However, there are many options for this step.
Secondly, you’ll want a way to transport and seal the container. To do this, you’ll need to figure out a plan for your packaging. A few commonly used products for packaging include flattened cartons, product free pouches (like a mylar bag), and round containers (similar to a pill bottle), or cartridge blister packaging.
Thirdly, you’ll want to seal your concentrate containers and packaging properly. You can do this by applying a tamper evidence dispensary label or a paper sticker label to the product and/or package. These small labels help protect the integrity of your product. By utilizing tamper evident labels or stickers, you’ll ensure your customers, product, and company are safe from anything harmful.
Finding a label machine that can properly place your dispensary labels is key to producing more products, selling more products, and keeping your brand standards in place. When searching for a cannabis label applicator it’s important to know if you can feed your packaging through the labeler with ease and precision. Doing a FAT or Factory Acceptance Test will help you confirm this and ensure the performance is up to par. This also ensures you’re investing in a packaging labeler that actually works for your product.
Oftentimes the label applicator will place the tamper evident labels or stickers on the product for you automatically — saving you time and money. When pairing the labeler with a feeder system, you’ll ensure your cannabis production is fully automated and secure. There are even hygienic labelers and hygienic feeders if you’re looking to keep your space clean and sterile.
Finally, if you haven’t already educated yourself on the labeling laws in your state now is the time. Below are a few labeling laws for states that have legalized cannabis — more cannabis state laws can be found here (Note: Always refer to your state’s government website for updated cannabis laws).
In conclusion, as the cannabis industry continues to flourish, so will the equipment and packaging options. If you’re wanting to increase output, improve your packaging standards, or update your cannabis production line — we have a solution that can help. Check out some of our labelers, friction feeders, and integrated systems or get in touch with us below and someone from our team will be in touch.
DISCLAIMER: The contents of the Multifeeder Technology website regulatory pages are for general information only. The information herein should not be relied upon for legal advice on state marijuana laws. We provide links to state cannabis regulatory sites; we do not vouch for or assume any responsibility for the content, accuracy or completeness of material presented in linked sites. The information presented on these pages may not reflect the most current legal developments in the marijuana industry. We disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law.
Automation has the ability to quickly introduce and expand life-saving products into society. However, some companies are faced with strict regulations while producing these products safely, efficiently, and accurately. One way pharmaceutical packaging companies combat this feat is by utilizing automation to apply UDI barcodes or Unique Device Identification codes on products.
What are the UDI labeling requirements?
The UDI labeling requirements align with the Unique Device Identification System, which was signed into law in 2007. The system ensures unique identifier or codes are assigned to medical devices manufactured across the globe (source). Pharmaceutical labeling requirements mandated by the FDA, state the following:
“The Unique Device Identification System final rule (UDI Rule) requires device labelers (typically, the manufacturer) to:
Successful companies automate their pharmaceutical labeling process with product feeding, labeling, and verification systems equipped for UDI barcodes. These types of automation equipment can also typically feed products like Tyvek lids, die cut cartons, foil pouches, clear bags, and more.
When applying a UDI code, it is possible to apply a label or to print the code directly onto the products. The products are loaded into a MFT Automation Friction Feeder that will gently feed the product one at a time, and transfer them one at a time onto the discharge of the feeder. The UDI codes are then applied onto the products automatically as they travel on the discharge of the feeder. After the UDI code has been applied to the product, a vision camera system is utilized to confirm the identification has been properly placed on the product. This process is also known as serialization.
Serialization is the process of applying a unique code to each individual product. It provides a system to track and trace a pharmaceutical product from its original source through the entire supply chain.
Using serialization technologies for pharmaceutical packaging is a great way to safeguard products. Automated quality management systems (QMS) can also help you save time and money on packaging production. These types of automated technologies help companies remain competitive — especially in highly regulated industries like the pharma industry.
MFT Automation manufactures friction feeding, printing, and labeling machines for Fortune 500 pharmaceutical companies. These machines can print, apply, and label UDI codes onto products automatically. They can also integrate with Ink Jet and Thermal transfer print systems, to keep pharmaceutical packaging lines performing at optimal speeds. If you have a unique carton or product that needs feeding or labeling within the pharmaceutical packaging industry, our customized solutions can help.
Get in touch with us below and start saving time, money, and labor with automated Unique Device Identification and pharmaceutical labeling.
The coronavirus (COVID-19) has changed our way of life in 2020 — both personally and professionally. Employees are adapting to work from home policies. People are adding facemasks to their wardrobe. Companies are changing the way they do business. There’s a lot that’s changed.
For companies who manufacture and package medical supplies — we applaud you. These last six months have pushed you to adapt and accelerate production, helping millions of Americans stay safe. But the pandemic isn’t over yet. Hospitals across the U.S. are still struggling to keep people on the front lines safe. And, the need for PPE and COVID-19 medical supplies still remains a necessity.
Together, manufacturers and equipment providers can create more of these products. One of the first steps to doing this is to automate the packaging of PPE and medical products.
This blog is for those who already manufacture COVID-19 supplies, and those who want to start. If this sounds like something you’re interested, we’ve identified a few ways to help you jump in head first. If you’re already producing COVID PPE or supplies but need increased output, these apply to you as well.
“Serialization” and “unique device identification” aren’t foreign words to medical and pharmaceutical companies. These tools help safeguard products and track them throughout the entire supply chain. This is especially important for high demand products — like COVID PPE and medical supplies — that move fast. Automation equipment that supports serialization and UDI placement can help output acceleration. In turn, it could help provide medical facilities with more of the products they need during the pandemic.
During the pandemic, production line employees are (hopefully) following social distancing recommendations. Meaning, manual counting and preparation of products can take longer. This can cause some serious pains when your main goal is acceleration of product output. Automated equipment that batch counts and bands your products is a great solution. It offers limited human interaction and could offer some serious ROI right now.
This step works hand-in-hand with step #1. Verification can be combined with serialization/UDI placement devices to create an airtight process for product traceability. Together they ensure the right product is being assigned the right code at the right time. Specific verification technologies that will help you accelerate your production include:
Watch the video below to see some of these in action!
For obvious reasons, you’re likely experiencing high product demand. Hiring more employees, buying equipment, or upgrading existing equipment can help. But, we recommend focusing on options two and three.
Not sure if you need new equipment or can upgrade what you have? Talk with your automation equipment manufacturer or contact our team here.
A great place to start when evaluating equipment options is to start with what you have. Next, check your equipment’s cleaning and sanitizing options. With the pandemic still in full swing, there are regulations set by the CDC and FDA that must be upheld. To help meet these, we recommend looking into CIP automation equipment — also known as hygienic equipment. Below are a couple of hygienic options that could keep your company, products, and team safer.
This system offers turnkey product handling for serialization coding, printing, inspection, and rejection. It also provides a trackable data file. Learn more about the Track & Trace system here or request a quote below.
This machine multiples the product capacity of our MFT friction feeder systems by maximizing runtime and minimizing operators. Learn more about the Automatic Product Loader here or request a quote below.
The Hygienic Labeler 300 meets IP69K requirements and meets and exceeds IP66/NEMA4X standards. Its Clean-in-Place design also provides minimal contamination points. Learn more about the Hygienic Labeler here or request a quote below.
This feeder is available in the 300 and 600. Both meet sanitary requirements and comply with IP66 or higher standards and NEMA4X standards.
Did you know the Global Foods Packaging industry could reach $400 billion by the year 2025? While this industry continues to grow, so does the need for companies to automate their manufacturing processes. This is where automation equipment can be a resource; such as labeling machines and label applicators.
If you work in engineering or operations, you may be looking to improve your process. If you’re a business owner or purchasing manager, you need a labeler that will justify the investment. No matter what seat you’re in, there are a few steps to take before choosing a labeler machine.
Before you begin researching automatic label machines, take time to define what it is you’re trying to fix. Knowing this up front will help you decide on a label machine and manufacturing partner.
Have you tried to implement automation equipment but felt resistance from your team? In this case you may need an automation equipment manufacturer who provides on-site training. Have you launched a new product and need automate a difficult packing process? In this case, you might need a customized integrated labeling system. Were you recently hired to help improve production timelines and output? Are you tasked with implementing new technology and strategies on the production line? In these situations, you might need an automation equipment and a manufacturer who has a process that’s supported by data and procedures.
Here are some questions to help you understand your situation, challenges, and goals.
Choosing an automation partner is like finding a dealership before you can test drive your new ride. Factors like the location of the dealership and number of vehicles to choose from are important. But the “feel-good” factors like your connection with the salesman or their Google reviews are also important.
The same goes for choosing a label manufacturer and partner for your automation equipment. They need to have equipment that can do what you need it to do — like apply labels accurately and efficiently. And, they need to offer the customization and support your team and application need. Below are a few questions you can ask yourself and manufacturers when vetting out new partnerships. Be sure to also get a feel for their company and culture as well.
Multifeeder Hygienic Food Labeler
Sometimes you aren’t sure what type of labeling machine or label applicator you need (example pre-printed or print and apply) — and that’s okay. Your manufacturing partner should be able to help identify the best solution based on the challenges and goals you share.
When operating in a food manufacturing environment, a good place to start is to consider the type of labeling machine you need. There are two basic types of food labeling machines: a hygienic labeler or a standard labeler. Both are great options depending on the level of regulations required on your production lines — like ones permitted by the FDA.
Due to rising foodborne outbreaks and recent CDC and FDA regulations, companies are opting for automation equipment that can be heavily sanitized. The best labelers for this type of cleaning are typically hygienic labelers. If your equipment doesn’t come into contact with food or beverages or isn’t even in the same facility, you may be okay utilizing a standard labeler.
Be sure to discuss these concerns and any types of regulations and requirements your company must follow with your manufacturer. It’s worth the time and research — especially when it can prevent you from having to shut down your production line.
It never hurts to ask. A manufacturer who is confident in their products being able to solve your needs and providing a customized experience will say yes. And there’s not a better way to validate your decision before buying something, than to see it in action.
So, ask to send samples of your product to the manufacturer and either watch the labeling machine in person or request a video of the test. This gives you an opportunity to ask questions and ensure the machine produces a quality product you’re proud of.
Last, but not least, get clarification on the implementation process and lead time. There’s nothing worse than investing in automation equipment that takes months to produce any results and ROI. Be sure to get clarity on timelines and expectations from your manufacturer. You’ll be thankful to have a plan in place with a process and partner you trust.
But the most important question to ask yourself after researching, requesting quotes, and vetting your options is…
If your answer is no, it’s time to start the process over. If you’ve tried this process and are still struggling to find a label applicator that meets your needs, we’re here to help. Get in touch with us by requesting information on our automation solutions below.