AIPIA Asia Summit 2021: Toppan Printing exhibits tamper-evident paper boxes with integrated NFC

23 Jun 2021 --- Toppan Printing is showcasing four prototypes of its tamper-evident Near Field Communication (NFC) tags in paper-based packages at the AIPIA Asia Summit 2021 today. 

Toppan explains commonly applied NFC and ID tech labels can be removed or reapplied to other items, giving rise to potential risks of counterfeiting, grey market diversion and other fraudulent activities in the supply chain. 

Toppan’s NFC tags, however, are embedded in the packaging itself, catering to businesses looking to advance digital transformation in their manufacturing and sales processes.

According to Innova Market Insights, 45 percent of global consumers are either “somewhat” or “very interested” in NFC technology. Notably, this is ahead of QR codes (32%) and augmented reality (31%).

NFC is a radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology for wireless communication over short distances. NFC tags are commonly used for contactless credit card payments, but are also gaining prominence in the alcoholic beverage sector.

Tamper-evident scores
Besides safety issues, NFC tags applied to packaging surfaces can negatively impact printed graphics and appearance. Moreover, applying labels during packaging manufacturing can increase the workload. 

To prevent product tampering, part of the in-built NFC circuit employs a brittle structure. “If an attempt is made to separate the NFC tag from the package, the circuit is destroyed and the NFC tag no longer functions,” the company explains. 

Another circuit can detect both disconnection and package opening. This NFC tag functions even if this additional circuit is broken, meaning that scanning with a smartphone or other NFC-enabled device is still possible after a product has been opened. 

As well as bolstering security, this opening detection function has benefits for consumer engagement because brands can vary the content and information provided to consumers based on whether they have opened the product or not.

Toppan’s four concepts clockwise from top left: One-piece tuck top box type, straight tuck box type, blister card type, and molded pulp type.Safety first
Tamper-evident seals are not just popular in luxury packaging, but also essential in baby food, foodservice and cannabis packaging.

Innova Market Insights data reveals two-thirds of global consumers agree that product traceability and transparency are important aspects of packaging information.

“Toppan will continue to drive the development of smart packaging as we target a broad range of applications for these new products in the near future,” says Takamitsu Nakabayashi, senior R&D manager in Toppan’s security business.

Notably, Toppan is also unveiling NFC labels combining metallic designs at AIPISA Asia Summit today. The ubiquity of smartphones has prompted heightened demand for consumer product experiences through NFC.

The company will also exhibit its NFC packaging at Luxe Pack Shanghai 2021, a premier trade show for luxury packaging, hosted from July 7-8. 

By Anni Schleicher