In industries where sensitive or high-value goods are shipped, security and accountability matter. This is why tamper-evident, high security packaging is used as an advanced packaging solution, designed to reveal any unauthorised access. Whether it’s pharmaceuticals, electronics, or luxury goods, tamper-evident films are increasingly important in safeguarding shipments, and ensuring trust across the supply chain. And new packaging technology is making high security packaging even more effective.
How tamper-evident films work
Tamper-evident seals have been around for thousands of years – since wax stamps were used to seal private letters and documents in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. Today, we have polythene films, designed to visually indicate any attempt to open, alter, or tamper with the packaging.
They typically feature printed patterns, or layers that distort or tear irreversibly when tampered with, providing a clear signal of interference. These features make them indispensable for industries that require strict control over goods – like pharmaceuticals. But they’re also useful for packaging electronics and securing valuable components, or sensitive data storage devices, as well as for luxury goods.
The use of coloured polythene and printing processes makes this possible. And new technologies are taking this even further.
Smart packaging meets high security
The next generation of tamper-evident films feature smart packaging technologies – merging physical security with digital tracking. By integrating QR codes, barcodes, or NFC tech directly into the polythene film, businesses can streamline supply chain tracking, and make accountability and auditing totally transparent.
QR codes and barcodes enable real-time scanning of shipments, providing instant visibility into the location and status of goods. Smart packaging features create digital logs that record when and where goods were scanned, providing a transparent trail of custody – and for end-users, scannable packaging can provide information about the product’s origin, authenticity, and instructions for use.
These features are especially useful in industries like pharma, where regulations often demand comprehensive tracking of every stage in the supply chain – but you can see how this would be useful for high-value and luxury goods, too.
Advanced features: nanoparticles for traceability
As the demand for traceability grows, innovative technologies like nanoparticles are being integrated into tamper-evident films. These microscopic particles can carry unique identifiers and holographic markings that are impossible to counterfeit, and add an extra layer of traceability in supply chains.
With nanoparticles, tamper-evident films can become an even more powerful tool for preventing fraud and improving accountability in high-stakes industries.
Design considerations for tamper-evident films
When designing tamper-evident films for high security packaging, several factors come into play.
1. Custom printing
Unique patterns or designs make tampering obvious and prevent unauthorised duplication of packaging.
2. Durable and flexible materials
The film must withstand normal handling, but distort under deliberate tampering attempts.
3. Integration with existing systems
QR codes, barcodes, or other smart features should seamlessly integrate with supply chain management software, for real-time tracking and reporting.
4. Sustainability
As with all packaging, there’s growing demand for eco-friendly materials. Designing tamper-evident films with recycled content will help meet compliance with sustainability goals.
Beyond security
While tamper-evident films are primarily used for security, they can do much more for businesses that use them. And one of them is building consumer trust. Secure packaging reassures customers that the product they’re receiving is authentic and untouched, and this leads to a more positive customer experience from packaging.
Tamper-evident films also protect goods from environmental factors, like moisture or dust, during transit – as all good packaging should. And they also help companies in certain industries stay ahead of compliance, as some require tamper-evident packaging to meet safety standards (pharma and food products spring to mind, but there are many more).
As technology continues to advance, tamper-evident films are becoming smarter and more versatile. It’s wise to invest in innovative packaging solutions that combine security with functionality – but it’s not just about using the latest cutting-edge materials and advanced tracking technology. It’s also about clever packaging design, and a thought-out customer experience.
Because high-security packaging doesn’t have to be high-tech. In fact, simple printing and unique colours can often be enough to keep a package secure. And we are experts in the design and manufacture of custom-printed, coloured polythene packaging solutions.
Contact us today to learn how we can design a custom high security packaging solution for your needs.
High security packaging
Talk to the polythene experts at NPF Packaging, and design your own high security packaging, with tamper-evident polythene. Enquire online to get a quote now, or call us on 01773 820415 to find out more about our manufacturing and design process.
