The Power of Packaging for Vitamins and Supplements

Packaging is no longer just a means of protecting vitamins and supplements; it has become a strategic asset that can drive your success in this dynamic market. The transformative role of packaging in the consumer health space is opening up opportunities for you.

In this blog we discuss the impact of packaging formats, the drive for more sustainable solutions, consumer convenience, and future innovations.

Improved packaging formats for vitamins and supplements

Vitamins and supplements have seen a surge in popularity, accompanied by innovative packaging formats that cater to the industry's specific needs. A notable trend is the shift from traditional rigid plastic bottles to flexible packaging such as blister packs, pouches and sachets.

Blister packs have been long used for pharmaceutical products. They have become a go-to choice for supplements as well. They provide many benefits such as precise dosage and protection against external factors like moisture, light and oxygen. This format extends your product's shelf life and ensures that consumers receive the correct dosage every time. This promotes safety and efficacy. Blister solutions such as the Amcor HealthCare™ AmSky™ Blister System, a breakthrough PVC-free and aluminum free thermoform blister system innovation, is a more sustainable alternative for this in-demand healthcare packaging type.

In addition to blister packaging we also see a rise in single-dose packaging like sachets and stickpacks. These formats have risen to popularity because of their convenience and portability. Pre-measured doses make it easy for consumers to take supplements on the go, eliminating bulky bottles and measuring.

Designed with convenience and sustainability in mind the High Shield Pharma Laminates portfolio delivers a lower carbon footprint and is recycle-ready. The sachet and stickpack formats are suitable for powders, liquids, and gels, making it effortless for consumers to mix supplements into beverages or take them directly.

Across the consumer health space ecommerce is driving formats to be more portable and easier to ship. Multi-dose pouches and sachets have emerged as a popular packaging format for vitamins and supplements in this space. These formats have the added benefits of being lighter weight (so less packaging material used) which means a lower carbon footprint and when combined with recycle-ready materials such as our AmPrima® platform, you can transition to a more sustainable packaging structure while maintaining production efficiency and product protection.

More sustainable packaging solutions

In response to growing environmental concerns, the European Union has published the draft Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), creating a significant shift toward more sustainable packaging practices. Packaging producers and brands are now required to meet specific sustainability targets, including the use of recycle-ready materials and steps to reduce packaging waste.

We can help your brand transition to more sustainable packaging solutions. Our HealthCare™ AmSky™ Blister System, for example, is a more sustainable blister packaging option that ensures excellent barrier properties for product protection. It is a recycle-ready mono-PE solution that is PVC-free and aluminium-free. This solution aligns perfectly with emerging regulatory requirements, allowing you to meet your sustainability requirements while maintaining high standards of product quality.

Embracing more sustainable packaging practices not only reduces environmental impact but also fosters brand loyalty among consumers who prioritise sustainability. With Amcor's expertise and product portfolio, you can navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and seize the opportunity to lead the way in more sustainable packaging practices.

Added consumer convenience

Packaging plays a key role in delivering better user experiences with features that enhance convenience and usability.

Resealable closures, for example, have become increasingly popular in the vitamin and supplement space. Reclose features allow consumers to securely store their products, preserving freshness and potency over time.

We have seen a demand for improved opening features. Tear notches or peel off ends provide quick and effortless access to the product, eliminating the need for additional tools or excessive force. This ensures a seamless experience from the moment consumers receive their supplements.

For one of the most popular formats, the blister pack, Amcor's AmSky™ Blister System has an intuitive opening mechanism for effortless access to the supplements for adults, while also being child resistant.

Other packaging solutions focus on convenience through features like built-in measuring devices, pre-packaged servings, or easy-to-read dosage instructions. These elements empower consumers to easily integrate supplements into their lives.

By prioritizing consumer convenience through packaging design, vitamin and supplement producers can enhance the overall user experience, improve brand perception, and foster customer loyalty.

Future packaging trends

The future of vitamins and supplements packaging is an exciting opportunity.

Growing demands for customization and personalization in packaging designs show that consumers seek packaging which mirrors the trend for personalized supplements. The packaging needs to reflect how the product inside is designed specifically for them. This includes having packaging that can be personalized with colours, messages and designs.

Alongside this trend, smart packaging will also provide the industry with the ability to create interactive experiences for consumers. Imagine a supplement package with a QR code providing dosage instructions, ingredients, and personalized recommendations. Consumers would be able to find out more details about their supplements and the brands or producers providing that product.

Get expert packaging advice

With the ever-changing consumer demands and emerging packaging trends, being agile is essential to stay ahead of the competition. By collaborating with a trusted partner, you can use packaging as a valuable asset that protects your products and enhances the overall experience for your customers.

With Amcor's proven track record in Healthcare packaging, and our commitment to excellence, you can confidently embrace packaging as a strategic tool to drive success in the vitamins and supplements industry. To find out more, contact us today and sign up for our consumer health newsletter to stay ahead of the latest news and trends.