Do you struggle with determining the difference between skin packaging and blister packaging as well as which one to use when? This is a common concern. No matter if you’re the packaging buyer, supply manager, or business owner your product packaging questions will be answered here.
The two packaging types have been in use for many years and they are very similar to each other when it comes to appearance and makeup. However, they are used for very different products. One example would be skin packaging is more commonly used for seafood while a blister pack would house the filet knife used to cut the fish.
BLISTER PACK
The basic structure of a blister pack consists of:
Blister board – A backing material made of paperboard that can be pre-printed with the product info, company name, brand, pricing, description, or whatever you’d like to showcase. There are occasions when the blister board is made of an alternate material like aluminum (typically seen with medications), however, paperboard is most commonly used.
· Blister – Typically a plastic container that comes pre-formed to house the product between itself and the blister board. It was given the name “blister” as it resembles a raised blister one might get on a hand or foot.
Examples of everyday items that come in blister packs are flash drives, toys, over the counter medications, and many others.
SKIN PACK
Frequently confused with the blister pack, a skin pack also has a board and plastic cover. Unlike the blister pack, skin packaging is sealed with a vacuum sealer, forming a tight bond around the product.
Once sealed, the products are ready to ship, or they can undergo an additional step to remove excess packaging material with a machine called a die-cutter.
Once these steps are completed, the finished product is completely contained in the skin pack, surrounded by a special film.
WHICH PACKAGING SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
In order to determine the appropriate packaging for your product, you’ll need to answer a few questions.
Q. Do you need to get the products in stores quickly?
A. Blister packs are a quicker option as they require fewer steps in the sealing process.
Q. Is the product a perishable food item?
A. Skin packs are by far the best packaging option in this instance.
Q. Are there pointed or sharp edges on your product?
A. Choose a sturdy blister pack here.
Q. What can you afford to spend on the packaging?
A. Blister packaging requires less equipment and is therefore a more cost-effective option for those on a stricter budget.
THE DIFFERENCE
Skin packaging uses a thin layer of surlyn film and a vacuum sealer to tightly attach the product to the backing board and it is often used for easily spoiled food items. Blister packs have a hard plastic cover called a “blister” to house the product and do not need vacuum sealing to attach it to the board which makes this a cheaper and quicker option.
Armed with this information and your answers from above, you should be able to determine the best packaging option for your products and your company.