A medical packaging that “speaks” of safety

Schreiner MediPharm has combined its expertise in innovative specialty labels and integrated solutions with folding box manufacturer Edelmann.

The result is a smart medicine packaging solution with diverse digital features ( BitSecure and NFC), technologies that compete to define the supply chain, security and compliance with the EU Falsified Medicines Directives that has been in effect since February 2019.

BitSecure for product authentication. The BitSecure copy detection technology - reliable yet cost-efficient - is a printed, digital security feature, based on a high-resolution, random pattern whose delicate details are not discernible by the naked eye. In an attempt to copy the small random pattern with a size of just a few millimeters, the printed image will suffer a loss in precision and optical details. The pattern can be authenticated quickly and flexibly on-site using a smartphone or handheld reader, and analyzed via related software. Due to its small size, it can be easily integrated into existing packaging or label designs.

NFC closure seal for tamper evidence. The closure seal with a void effect and an integrated NFC chip is more than a conventional seal for folding boxes. It combines analog and digital technologies and offers double tamper evidence: before the seal’s initial opening, the user reads the NFC chip using a smartphone and related app to receive confirmation of the product’s authenticity. If the seal is peeled off, an irreversible void effect will appear. If the user opens the packaging without previously peeling off the seal, the seal will break along the perforation. If the NFC chip is read again, a warning on the smartphone will indicate that the packaging has been previously opened. This makes any tampering attempt clearly visible. Additionally, interactive applications for patient information and assistance may be integrated into the NFC chip.