Pharmaceutical printing packaging is a highly technical process. This is because there are a variety of things to consider, such as the quality of the materials, the coding and marking options, and the media and sizes that are used. There are also automated options for inspecting print runs.
Codes
When printing pharmaceutical packaging, there are several different types of coding and marking technologies to choose from. The choice of technology depends on your company's priorities and needs. It's also important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each technology.
As the global pharmaceutical industry becomes more regulated, pharmaceutical companies are scrambling to meet all requirements. This includes serializing, tracing, and coding products to ensure the security of their supply chain.
The pharmaceutical industry uses a number of technologies, including thermal transfer overprinting, laser marking systems, and software solutions. These systems provide high quality GS1 compliant codes. They also help operators remotely control hardware and monitor equipment effectiveness in real time.
Variable Data
Various types of variable data can be added to pharmaceutical packaging. It can be product information such as lot codes, batch codes, use-by dates, or ingredient changes. These can help increase production efficiency and improve customer response.
As a result, the pharmaceutical industry is experiencing rapid growth. According to a recent report, the market for variable data printing will reach over USD 9.5 billion by 2021. Some of the leading companies operating in the market are Xerox Corporation, Mondi PLC, 3M, Avery Dennison Corporation, Lake Image Systems, and Metapack.
The market for variable data printing in pharmaceutical packaging is expected to expand at a 10% CAGR from 2016 to 2021. Rising demand for innovative packaging solutions, increasing consumer awareness, and changing consumer behavior are some of the factors driving the market.
Automated Options for Inspecting Print Runs
Many pharmaceutical companies have begun using automated options for inspecting pharmaceutical printing runs. There are several different levels of print defects that can occur during the printing process, and it is important to get them corrected as quickly as possible. This can help manufacturers avoid the negative publicity and costly penalties that can result from unchecked printing defects.
Some printing errors can be caused by equipment glitches or prepress issues. But these errors can also occur due to human error. For example, the lettering on a rounded, flexible packaging may not look like it should on a flat surface.
Other printing errors can be caused by environmental conditions, such as ink/water imbalances. Inkjet and toner problems can also lead to printed page deviations. These can have serious consequences for the health and safety of people.
Quality By Design (Qbd) Approach
If you are planning to introduce a new product to the pharmaceutical market, you should consider using a quality by design approach. This technique is a systematic product development strategy that allows you to get the right performance out of your manufacturing process. QbD can be a helpful tool during the preformulation phase and can reduce the time and cost required for downstream development.
While QbD is a well-known and proven strategy for quality assurance, it is also important to recognize that there are many other factors that contribute to the implementation of this method. Among them are the regulatory and business conditions involved.
Media and Sizes
Pharmaceutical printing involves a broad range of media and sizes. These include large-format paper, barcodes, and even fine print. Various government initiatives are driving growth in this industry.
The market has experienced rapid growth over the last decade. A major reason for this is the increased demand for medicines. It is estimated that drug volume has doubled in the past 15 years. Changing lifestyles and eating habits have also contributed to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases.
Packaging innovation has been accelerating at a fast pace. However, the industry is still lagging behind on technological advances. Consequently, the packaging industry is facing a number of challenges. Among the most significant is counterfeiting.
Coding and Marking Options
Coding and marking solutions for pharmaceutical printing packaging are available in a wide range of technologies. These include thermal inkjet (TIJ), binary array ink-jet, and thermal transfer overprinting. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. It is important to choose the right technology for your application.
In order to choose the best printing technology, you should consider your needs and budget. You can also consult with experts. They will help you narrow your options and make an informed decision.
Pharmaceutical packaging requires high-resolution, accurate, and legible coding. Codes provide consumers with important information about a product's identity and origin. Governments require this information to be printed on the packaging.