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Going back 30 years ago, candy colossus Skittles debuted the slogan “Taste the Rainbow,” which has since become one of advertising’s longest-running campaigns.

But while slogans can last for generations, brand packaging usually can’t. The encroachment of visual stimuli via social media, competition from rival confectionary brands and other forces prompted the brass at Mars Wrigley to launch a packaging refresh, which makes its E.U. debut today. (An American rollout comes next year.)

By scanning the AQR code on the front-of-pack, shoppers can access the Be My Eyes app, connecting them to a volunteer for live cooking instructions or to a virtual AI-chat bot utilizing Chat GPT-4 capabilities to address recipe or cooking questions.

The FMCG giant will use the AQR codes to provide product information such as usage direction, recycling and ingredient information and nutritional value, interacting with standard smartphone accessibility through the Be My Eyes app to share information via audio description or displaying information in larger text.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has urged both consumers and food vendors to stop using newspapers for packing, serving and storing food items. Expressing concern over the use of newspapers, FSSAI's CEO, G Kamala Vardhana Rao, highlighted significant health risks associated with this practice with an aim to alert all stakeholders.

WePack recognised the need for a digital solution to enhance its agility and responsiveness and Nulogy’s Shop Floor Solution emerged as the ideal choice for the business. Tailored specifically for the intricate procedures of contract packing, Nulogy was seen as essential to meet the demands from brands as they increasingly rely on external partners for high-quality, innovative and cost-effective product delivery.

From her Oak Creek shop, Rachel Cartwright has a front row seat to the evolution of an industry. The 2018 Farm Bill allows Cartwright to sell hemp products like CBD-derived delta-8 THC.

At times, the changing regulations within her industry have caused Cartwright frustration. Still, she supports a recent crackdown on some packaging of delta-8 products.

"We want to make sure people are as safe as possible," said Cartwright. "Especially children."

Called The Fruit Pillbox, the packaging comes with seven compartments labelled from Monday to Sunday with a Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit in each compartment.

Crafted from recyclable material and vegetable-based ink, the packaging aims to combat Singapore’s forgetfulness to include fruit in their daily consumption habits.

In fact, over 50% of Singaporeans do not eat fruits daily and have cited forgetfulness as the biggest factor that stops them from eating fruit, according to a survey commissioned by Zespri. 93% of Singaporeans also said that wanted to eat more fruit.

Cornitos’ dedication to innovation and functionality is displayed in this packaging overhaul. The redesigned packs, reminiscent of the vibrant and enthusiastic character of Corny, are a symbol of the brand’s aim to deliver a visually appealing and quality snacking experience.

This upgrade aims to provide a solution for snack enthusiasts, aligning with Cornitos’ approach to snacking. 

The study focuses on PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals,” recognized as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, meaning they can interfere with the body’s hormonal systems, potentially affecting puberty and childhood development. PFAS exposure has also been linked to reduced fertility, thyroid disease and obesity.

Dean Williams, CEO of Honibe, expressed enthusiasm about the brand's transformation, stating, "Our new packaging is more than just a visual upgrade – it's a reflection of our dedication to providing consumers with the highest quality honey-based products. We've listened to our customers' feedback and designed packaging that not only showcases honey as our #1 ingredient but also captures the essence of nature's beauty."

Following on the heels of an informative 2023 series that delved into the concept of packaging EPR, the upcoming 2024 season will focus on the implementation of state programs, covering topics such as producer responsibility organization (PRO) membership, reporting requirements, needs assessments, and insights from previously implemented programs in Europe and Canada. Attendees may register for the entire series or individual sessions based on their needs.