What is the purpose of a blister pack?

Blister packaging is a common method used for packaging pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and food products. It involves enclosing items in a plastic or foil cavity, which is then sealed with a backing material to create a protective barrier. Blister packaging is popular due to its ability to provide tamper resistance, moisture protection, and visibility of the packaged item. In this article, we will explore the purpose of blister packs and the benefits they offer.

What is a blister pack?

A blister pack is a type of packaging that consists of a pre-formed plastic or foil cavity that holds a product, which is then sealed with a backing material. The plastic or foil cavity is typically formed using a thermoforming process, where heat is used to shape the plastic or foil into the desired shape. The backing material can be made of paper, plastic, or foil and is typically sealed to the plastic or foil cavity using heat or adhesive.

Blister packs are commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry to package tablets, capsules, and other medications. They are also used in the consumer goods industry to package items such as batteries, cosmetics, and electronics. In addition, blister packs are used in the food industry to package items such as meat, cheese, and produce.

What is the purpose of a blister pack?

The purpose of a blister pack is to protect the contents from damage or contamination during storage and transportation. The plastic or foil cavity forms a barrier between the product and the outside environment, preventing dust, moisture, and other contaminants from entering the package. The backing material provides additional protection and can also be printed with important information, such as expiration dates and dosage instructions.

Blister packs also offer the advantage of being tamper-evident. If the package has been opened or tampered with, it is easy to tell, which can help prevent unauthorized access to the contents. This is particularly important for pharmaceutical products, where tampering can pose a serious risk to patient safety.

Benefits of using blister packs

There are several benefits to using blister packs for packaging products. Firstly, they offer a high level of protection against damage and contamination, which can help extend the shelf life of the product and reduce the risk of product recalls. Secondly, they are cost-effective and can be customized to fit the specific needs of the product and the company.

Blister packs are also easy to use and can be designed to be child-resistant or senior-friendly, depending on the target market. Additionally, they offer excellent visibility of the product, which can help increase sales and improve the customer experience.

The types of blister packs

There are several different types of blister packs available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common types include:

– Clamshell blister packs: These are made from two pieces of plastic that are hinged together and can be sealed on three sides. They offer excellent visibility of the product and can be sealed using heat, adhesive, or ultrasonic welding.

– Face seal blister packs: These consist of a plastic or foil cavity that is sealed to a backing material on one side. They offer good visibility of the product and are commonly used for packaging tablets and capsules.

– Full-face seal blister packs: These are similar to face seal blister packs but are sealed on all sides, providing even greater protection against damage and contamination.

– Push-through blister packs: These consist of a plastic or foil cavity with a backing material that can be easily pushed through to access the product. They are commonly used for packaging tablets and capsules and offer a convenient and tamper-evident way to access the product.

– Child-resistant blister packs: These are designed to be difficult for children to open and are commonly used for packaging medications and other potentially hazardous products.

Conclusion

Blister packs are a versatile and cost-effective packaging solution that offers a high level of protection against damage and contamination. They are commonly used in the pharmaceutical, consumer goods, and food industries and offer several benefits, including tamper-evidence, visibility, and customization options. By choosing the right type of blister pack for their product, companies can improve the safety, shelf life, and overall success of their packaging.