Conventional packaging printing is typically performed before the packaging process itself ??the packaging material is printed first, then used to wrap the product. This sequence creates an opportunity for counterfeiters. By mass-producing fake trademarks, packaging boxes, and even counterfeit anti-counterfeiting labels, they generate illegal profits at the expense of the economy.
Analyzing the root cause of counterfeiting: traditional packaging and labeling, whether using direct or indirect printing, requires the involvement of printing companies. Poor management can lead to packaging material leakage, giving counterfeiters access to genuine packaging components. A simple yet effective solution is to reverse the sequence ??package first, then print ??and perform both steps within the manufacturer’s own facility.
The Package-First, Print-Later Method
The post-printing process involves completing the product packaging operation first, then printing on top of it, with special positioning requirements. For example, a film layer can be applied to the outermost packaging surface, and printing is done on that film. When the consumer opens the product, the act of destroying the packaging also destroys the integrity of the printed graphics, rendering the packaging unreusable ??thus achieving anti-counterfeiting protection.
Shrink Film: The Ideal Material
One of the best material choices for destructive protection is heat-shrink shrink film or other shrinkable films. These films are typically applied after the packaging process. Printing on shrink-wrapped products means that accessing the product requires first destroying the shrink film, which simultaneously destroys the printed pattern or text. The old packaging cannot be reused, and because printing takes place inside the factory, the leakage channel for packaging materials is effectively sealed.
Equipment Selection
Inkjet Printers: Inkjet printers are the most commonly chosen equipment for post-printing. As a non-contact printing method, inkjet imposes no strict requirements on packaging surface flatness. Modern four-color inkjet printers deliver satisfactory results in both printing speed and color quality for standard applications.
Laser Engraving Machines: Laser engravers cost more than inkjet printers but offer distinct advantages ??they use no ink, produce clear and permanent marks that resist smudging, and achieve excellent engraving quality across various packaging materials. Their non-contact printing method places low demands on surface quality, delivering high-quality results even on rough surfaces.
Hot Stamping Machines: Hot stamping is well suited for small-area post-printing tasks such as labels and security seals.
Effective anti-counterfeiting requires considering printing equipment, printing materials, packaging design, and printing processes as an integrated system ??only a comprehensive approach delivers reliable protection.
References
- Wikipedia: Packaging and Labeling: Overview of packaging functions including anti-counterfeiting applications
- Wikipedia: Shrink Wrap: Properties and applications of shrink film in packaging security
- ISO 12931 ??Authentication Solutions: International standard for anti-counterfeiting authentication criteria
- WTO: TRIPS Agreement: Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights
- FDA: Drug Supply Chain Security: U.S. FDA guidance on supply chain security and anti-counterfeiting packaging