Fingerprint-locked water bottles rise in China as safeguard against tampering

Fingerprint-locked reusable water bottles are emerging as a back-to-school favorite among Chinese parents, dominating sales charts on major e-commerce platforms as the new school term begins.

The water bottles feature biometric security on their lids, safeguarding drinking water from potential contamination and protecting children from pranks or bullying related to tampering with their beverages. 

Fork, a Chinese independent designer for fingerprint locked reusable water bottles, tells Packaging Insights: “When designing the body and lid of the bottle, protective measures for electronic components are taken into account. The fingerprint recognition technology used in the reusable bottles on the market has already been developed to a very mature level.”

Most Chinese people prefer drinking hot or warm water rather than cold or tap water, regardless of the season. To meet this preference, most fingerprint locked bottles on the market use a stainless steel inner liner to keep beverages warm.

The bottle is designed with a screen to show the temperature of the water inside.Fork shares that he also created a soft rubber exterior for the water bottle, protecting the bottle from damage and potential harm to children.

Child-friendly design

The water bottle comes in its default state, allowing anyone to open it. It supports the registration of multiple fingerprints. Parents can record the child’s fingerprints as well as their own. 

The water bottle is rechargeable, and its fingerprint scanner can quickly identify a child’s fingerprints. The bottle unlocks with just a light touch, and then it can be opened with one hand.

“The overall design resembles an ice cream cone, with a tapered base that makes it easy for children to slip the bottle into the side pockets of their schoolbags. The wider top and narrower bottom give the product a playful look and make it easier for children to hold securely while drinking, reducing the chance of slipping from their hands,” shares Fork.

“In terms of aesthetics, the color scheme makes use of bold contrasts and bright combinations. This aligns better with children’s preferences and provides a strong visual cue, serving as a gentle reminder for them to stay hydrated while at school.” 

The F&B packaging sector is addressing consumers’ increasing concerns about safety. Mars released a Starburst “Un-Shareable” packaging innovation for its All Pink candies, which included a personal biometric fingerprint technology manufactured in partnership with Mycube Safe. Only one person can unlock and access each candy packaging.