Obesity: Can Packaging Help?

Published: July 31, 2005

It's no secret that people around the world are getting fatter. The causes of overweight and obesity are multi-factorial. Food safety agencies like the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the US Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) continue their efforts to address diet, health, and agricultural policy.

First Glance

Published: July 31, 2005

Innovative packaging from FLEXcon, KNF Flexpak, and Field Boxmore.

PRIMAFLEX C is W&H's Most Successful Flexo Press Introduction

Published: July 03, 2005

In the 12 months following the introduction of the PRIMAFLEX CM and PRIMAFLEX CS flexographic sleeve presses, Windmoeller & Hoelscher has sold 35 presses worldwide, making it the most successful launch of any flexo press in the company's history.

A Communication from the PLACE Div. of TAPPI

Published: June 30, 2005

Lidding applications for peelable seal roll applied coatings, the effect of chlorine dioxide sachets and modified atmosphere packaging on quality of fresh chicken breasts, evaluation of low voltage electron beam processors using thin film dosimetry techniques, and analysis of new flame treatment technology for surface modification and adhesion promotion.

Seeking a Converting Superhero

Published: June 30, 2005

Not everyone can be Superman, but most people would like to be a hero. This column will tell the people who work in the flexible packaging and converting industries how to do that. Following is a look at some common wish list items people in these industries have expressed at various meetings in recent years. If you see something below you think you can accomplish or solve, you will be a hero.

COF in Printed Packaging

Published: June 30, 2005

Automatic packaging operations require a specific range of lubricity to process packaging products. Printing inks contribute to the package lubricity and affect both the static as well as kinetic coefficient of friction (COF).

Globally Speaking

Published: June 30, 2005

With just a single plant located in Oaks, PA, Global Packaging may not appear to be a global reckoning at first glance, but the company’s diverse flexible packaging solutions, which include laminated and surface-printed roll stock and side-weld bags, are supplied to consumer product companies in the US and Canada.

Materials

Published: June 30, 2005

New products from: Brushfoil, Spinnaker Coating, Uvitec Printing Ink, Sun Chemical, Bayer Films Americas, Rayven, Kurz Transfer Products, Klöckner Pentaplast of America, and Toray Plastics (America).

Imitation of Life

Published: June 30, 2005

The Gravure Assn. of America (GAA) gathered to celebrate its 21st Golden Cylinder Awards, which recognize the “best of the best” in gravure printing.

Reclying Plastic Materials

Published: June 21, 2005

Research and Markets’ report, Recycling of Plastic Materials, combines topics discussing: the analysis of processes successfully implemented in industrial practice; ideas concerning production with recycling in mind; and the new research developments offering practical solutions for recycling industry and product manufacturers.

One Stop Shop

Published: May 31, 2005

India is booming and nowhere is this more evident than at Flex Industries Ltd., the nation’s largest flex-pack converter.

Food Contact Regs: a Global Look

Published: May 31, 2005

Packaging products, particularly products in contact with food, are subject to regulation around the world. The differences in those regulations, particularly differences between the US and European Union (EU) systems, reflect fundamental differences in policy, rooted in their respective legal frameworks, that are important for industry members to understand. The subject is highly technical and complex; we provide here only a brief overview.

Odor & Exempt Solvents

Published: May 31, 2005

Requirements for low odor in flexible packaging change as new materials are introduced in printing and laminating operations. Retained solvent is the primary odor concern of the printer and converter, and tight odor standards are maintained for printed and laminated structures.

A Communication from the PLACE Div. of TAPPI

Published: May 31, 2005

Easy-opening packaging technology, using thermal process imaging for extruder analysis and improvement, a novel seal-peel system, and the effects of resin selection and extrusion variables on peelable seal performance.

Materials

Published: May 31, 2005

New products from: VonSon Liquid Inks, Ashland, Scapa North America, ADM Tronics, Rock-Tenn, Day Intl., Environmental Inks and Coatings, FLEXcon, Toray Plastics (America), and Rogers.