Packaging manufacturer DS Smith is focussing on the development of antiviral and antibacterial corrugated cardboard packaging, which must also comply with the company's sustainability strategy. To this end, the company has entered into an exclusive partnership with Touchguard.
The coronavirus pandemic also addresses the issue of Packaging safety increasingly being discussed. Although, according to DS Smith, there is currently no confirmed evidence that the Covid-19 virus is transmitted via corrugated board, consumers are showing a clear interest in „hygienically packaged products“. With an expected upward trend.
More than half (57 %) of consumers say they wash their hands thoroughly after touching e-commerce packaging. And almost a third of consumers are quicker to throw away packaging. In addition, a DS Smith study in collaboration with Ipsos MORI confirms that hygienic packaging will be of great relevance in the future. The aim of the new collaboration is therefore to, additional protection for all those involved along the supply chain to offer.
Versatile use, completely recyclable
The planned product range for customers in Europe and North America can be used in a wide variety of applications, particularly in the E-Commerce and with Food packaging. It remains 100 per cent recyclable. According to DS Smith, the coating and packaging of Touchguard is certified in accordance with AATCC100 (MOD), ISO18184:2019 (MOD). It also complies with the BfR36 recommendations for food contact materials.
„Whilst this technology can never be a substitute for good hygiene practices and care, it has the potential to provide our customers and their customers with real and proven additional protection as packaging moves through the supply chain. Importantly, this technology Sustainability of our products and is 100 per cent recyclable.“ Alan Potts, Design and Innovation Director at DS Smith
Patented mode of action
According to the company, the new, patented technology is effective against the most diverse Bacteria and viruses. This also includes enveloped viruses such as Covid-19. However, the product has not yet been tested on Covid-19 cultures, but on cultures of the feline coronavirus (part of the same virus family as Covid-19). In order for these viruses to multiply, the envelope and spikes must attach to host cells. Touchguard® however, destroys the shell. In this way, the Reduced virus replication thus effectively reducing the risk of transmission from person to person. According to the company, the proven kill rate of 99.5 % in less than 15 minutes for bacteria and enveloped viruses can therefore eliminate the risk of human-to-human transmission of infections such as MRSA and E. coli.
Source: DS Smith
