that the promotional item can be added without affecting the product’s integrity. For instance, dispensing a 3D toy into a bag of potato chips may cause product breakage. Plant managers therefore need to explore the different options available to minimise damage to fragile products. One solution for example, is to programme the inserter so the giveaway is dispensed just before the product. Dispensing frequency is also an additional consideration. Some manufacturers might only want to include an item or add a label to every fifth bag to create excitement during a competition and provide consumers with an impression of exclusivity. By integrating an inserter or labeller with an effective control system, plant managers can easily manage dispensing frequency according to the type of promotional campaign they intend to run. Film selection When it comes to promotional inserts, film selection is an additional consideration. Film strength, for instance, is a primary concern, since the perforation between each piece must be ideal to maximise the performance of the inserter. Likewise, if the film is too weak it might burst, allowing the insert to come into contact with the product. This can be particularly problematic with liquid-filled sachets, which can compromise the quality of the end product. To minimise these challenges, leading suppliers provide comprehensive evaluations of film type, so the over-wrapper can meet optimal burst strengths and prevent leakage of food products into/out of the insert. Packaging system There is a wide array of packaging systems for manufacturers to choose from, depending on the product being packaged, from horizontal and vertical form fill and seal systems to cartoners and flow wrappers. Deciding where to place the inserting and labelling equipment is vital to ensure minimum downtime and maximum product throughput. On horizontal form fill and seal (HFFS) and flow wrapping lines for example, the inserter is optimally positioned on the infeed conveyor, before the former. That way, the premium is inserted without causing any disruption to the product flow. Integration at the scale can pose significant drawbacks. For instance, premiums can easily become jammed in the scale mechanisms, meaning manual intervention is often required to correct the problem. Health and safety regulations There are several hygienic requirements when incorporating both edible and non-edible content into packaged food to maintain product safety. Once a manufacturer decides to promote a product with in-pack and onpack promotions, there is a very important choice to be made: How to produce the premiums and assure compliance with strict regulations regarding direct food contact? Awareness of regional safety laws and regulations is key for commercial success when exporting goods abroad. It’s therefore vital manufacturers have a thorough knowledge of the food product, packaging conditions and end-use requirements to which the insert is subjected, before incorporating it into their products. PA C K A G I N G A method commonly used for protecting inserts is plastic over wrapping. These barriers are often required to resist both abrasion (from the product) and bleed (from printed inserts) when added to wet or oily foods. However, in accordance with global regulations they must be derived from food-grade plastics for safety assurance. For edible inserts, there are additional safety considerations. Sachets or dips for example might have a different expiry date to the product in which they are inserted. This means they will require a separate label to the main product, to inform consumers. Promotional inserts and onserts are an easy and cost-effective way to add considerable value to any product. By exceeding consumer expectations for convenience, value and flexibility, these solutions encourage repeat purchase, facilitate cross-promotions, enhance brand visibility and loyalty, and ultimately drive sales. NEW Technology No Mess Ink Jet Coder XJet Range SEALED INK CARTRIDGE - No Mess NO MOVING PARTS - Maintenance Free 600 DPI PRINT QUALITY-Bar - coding & Graphics/Logo’s LIMITLESS PRINT HEADS - From a Single Controller CHEAPER INK COST - Long Term Cost of Ownership We supply: Label Printers Labels Ink Jet Coding Printers Industrial Thermal Coding Equipment Thermal Ribbons Label Design Software Technical Services & Support Call us your ONE STOP SHOP for all coding consumables and equipment NZ (+64) 9 271 0593 - www.galas.co.nz AUS (+61) 7 5665 8284 - www.galasolutions.com.au FT209 www.foodtechnology.co.nz 29
FT-Nov17-eMag
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