Here
are the items of packaging for which the PSC provided advice, as published in
its most recent report. Earlier reports are available via INCPEN.
PACKAGING
STANDARDS COUNCIL REPORT SEPTEMBER 1996
1. EXCESSIVE
PACKAGING OF MARKS AND SPENCER UNDERPANTS
COMPLAINT
That the use of
plastic hangers, sticky labels and labels on plastic thread to display
underpants in Marks & Spencer stores is excessive.
COUNCIL
COMMENT
PSC
staff visited Marks & Spencer stores to identify the product. Self-selection
shopping requires effective product display. In this case the display allows the
customer to easily identify size and price via the external sticky labels. The
plastic hanger allows products to be displayed easily. In the store visited by
PSC staff, a clear sign asked customers to "please leave the hanger for
recycling". In its view the PSC does not consider the packaging of this
product to be excessive.
2. EXCESSIVE
PACKAGING OF MARS "FUN SIZE MINI MARS"
COMPLAINT
That the
packaging of Mars "Fun size Mini Mars" is excessive.
COUNCIL
COMMENT
The
product consists of 23 individual small chocolate bars, each individually
wrapped in paper. The bars are contained in a plastic outer bag, 290mm x 187mm.
The bars require individual paper wrappings to protect them and maintain
freshness once the bag is opened. Such products may also be transferred from the
bag to be eaten later, for example in a lunch box, and this too makes protection
of the individual bars important. The outer bag allows the collation of a large
number of individual items and makes for simple and speedy transit through the
checkout. Even if the bars were bought separately, they would require a bag
after purchase. In light of the above and considered against the PSC Code of
Practice, this packaging is not considered excessive.
3. FAILURE OF
A BOTTLE OF HOLSTEN PILS
COMPLAINT
That a bottle of
Holsten Pils being transported in a car "exploded" without warning.
RESPONSE
Holsten
Distributors in the UK responded to the complainant by contending that such
incidents are extremely rare. In its view the explosive failure of the bottle
was due probably to an unfortunate combination of one or all of the following:
heat from the car; localised pressure from a "metal protuberance"
within the car; in-motion shaking of the bottle. Holsten asserted that all
bottles are tested on the filling/pasteurising line up to a pressure of 80psi
(enough to explode a typical car tyre). The complainant was unsatisfied with the
response and approached the PSC, which approached the Brewers and Licensed
Retailers Association, at least one of whose member companies bottles Holsten
Pils, and also British Glass. The BLRA confirmed Holsten Distributor's
contention that such radical failures are very rare and normally happen, as
intended, on the filler/pasteurisation line. It also pointed out that standards
for the strength of such bottles are constantly under review in order to achieve
improvements by exploitation of new technology.
The BLRA has
suggested that this particular bottle may have been damaged post-pasteurisation
and that this may have led to the failure of the weakened bottle by a relatively
small physical shock or temperature change. British Glass provided details of
the quality control procedures adopted for the manufacture of glass containers,
particularly those expected to contain pressurised liquid beverages. The
procedures include subjecting the bottle to pressures significantly greater than
would be experienced in normal distribution circumstances so that any weakened
bottle will fail in-plant rather than in distribution.
COUNCIL
COMMENT
The
PSC accepts that such dramatic incidents are rare and may have occurred in this
case through local damage or scuffing which then led to a rupture as a result of
a subsequent minor shock. However, the PSC has currently no way of testing this
hypothesis, which in any event would have no bearing on the degree of shock to
the consumer involved. The PSC is grateful for the comments from the BRLA but it
does feel that the initial response from Holsten Distributors was dismissive and
a case of poor customer relations.
4. EXCESSIVE
PACKAGING OF MARKS AND SPENCER "TEATIME ASSORTMENT" CAKES
COMPLAINT
That the
packaging of Marks & Spencer "Teatime Assortment" cakes is
excessive in that it is made up of plastic trays, a box and an outer cellophane
wrapping.
RESPONSE
Marks and
Spencer confirmed the assessment made by the PSC, but added that the design of
the sales packaging is part of the overall integrated approach to packaging.
This leads to a reduction, or elimination of some of the transit packaging -
though consumers do not see this part of the system.
COUNCIL
COMMENT
This
product consists of four iced cakes and two fruit shortcakes. The cakes are
located in a shaped moulded plastic tray, itself in a paperboard skillet and the
whole wrapped in clear plastic film. This packaging was assessed by the PSC
against its Code of Practice for the Packaging of Consumer Goods. The plastic
tray is necessary to protect the cakes from damage during transit by holding
them in place. The paperboard skillet provides rigidity and strength to allow
the product to be stacked. The clear film wrap provides an effective barrier to
moisture to maintain freshness and prevent contamination. These functions are
all consistent with the Code of Practice and the PSC does not consider this form
of packaging to be excessive for the product mentioned.
5. RETENTION
OF FLUID IN RIM OF JEYES FLUID METAL CONTAINER
COMPLAINT
That the design of the metal container for Jeyes Fluid allows fluid to collect
in the rim around the opening, thus allowing possible contact with the fluid.
COUNCIL
COMMENT
The PSC took expert advice from the Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association.
Jeyes Fluid is packaged in a traditional three-part metal can with a Child
Resistant Closure (CRC). The redesign of the container to overcome the problem
of residual fluid involves considering a number of aspects. The product has a
high surface tension, which affects the way it flows and clings to surfaces it
passes over. The spout is required to be able to close the container to prevent
leaks, to pour and to be consistent with the CRC. While redesign of the spout to
improve pouring is possible, this could conflict with the CRC requirement. Other
possible redesigns include an insert (as in oil cans), though this may involve
even more contact with the product, or the use of a moulded plastic container.
However, it is at present not clear what type of plastic would be most suitable
in terms of moulding capability and compatibility with the product and its
price. There is a further consideration that without the rim around the top of
the container any spillage resulting from pouring would run down the side of the
container. This would be less obviously visible and might result in more contact with the liquid.
6. EXCESSIVE PACKAGING OF SAINSBURY'S
"HAND FINISHED 2-PORTION CHOCOLATE GATEAU"
COMPLAINT
That the packaging of Sainsbury's "Hand finished 2-portion chocolate
gateau" is excessive in that the gateau portion was significantly smaller
than the outer packaging.
COUNCIL COMMENT
This complaint was passed to the PSC by Hampshire Trading Standards for
comment. In line with Trading Standards operations the retailer was not
approached. The packaging was assessed by the PSC on the basis of its Code of
Practice. The product is a sponge cake with soft filling and textured chocolate
sides and top. It is deep frozen. The packaging is made of four components: an
outer carton; clear plastic container of base and lid; a card wrapper round the
gateau; and a thin paper base. The plastic container is shaped to hold the
gateau centrally and limit movement. The volume of the product is 380cc; the
volume of the outer packaging 1,330cc. A sample purchased by the PSC weighed
180gms compared with a stated weight of 156gms. There is, however, a large space
between the inner plastic container and the outer cardboard carton. One benefit
of this considered by the PSC is as a "thermal barrier" (as in double
glazing) to prevent the relatively small cake portion defrosting prematurely.
While the volume of the product is only 30 per cent of the volume of the
packaging, a ratio that would not normally be acceptable, the PSC views the
thermal barrier as a necessary part of the packaging for this particular
product. As a result it has indicated to the Trading Standards authority that
the packaging is not excessive.
7. EXCESSIVE PACKAGING OF TESCO'S
"PREMIUM QUALITY" TEA BAGS
COMPLAINT
That the packaging of Tesco's "Premium Quality" tea bags is excessive
in that it makes use of four individual foil packages rather than a paper board
carton.
RESPONSE
Tesco has referred this complaint to its packaging technologists to examine
the possibility of reducing the amount of packaging used. However, it also
points out that while packaging must be kept to a minimum it must also ensure
product protection and safety during distribution, handling and storage and
that, where possible, it makes use of both recycled and recyclable materials in
packaging.
COUNCIL
COMMENT
The PSC purchased a 125gm carton
of this product, which contained a "foil" bag of 40 tea bags inside a
cardboard carton. It is possible that the complainant purchased a much larger
pack with four individual packs of 40 tea bags. Maintaining tea quality is a
major factor involved. The flavour of the leaf must be kept in and extraneous
moisture and tainting must be kept out during the distribution chain. A
cardboard carton cannot do this alone. Many manufacturers overwrap the carton in
clear barrier film to provide protection. The metallised film bag in the example
provides even better barrier protection. The PSC notes, too, that the product is
described as "premium quality" and that if it is sold in large
quantities, such as 4 x 40 tea bags, the packaging would have the added benefit
of maintaining the quality of unopened packs. In this case the PSC believes that
such packaging is not excessive.
8. EXCESSIVE PACKAGING OF CUSSONS
IMPERIAL LEATHER SOAP
COMPLAINT
That the packaging of Cussons Imperial Leather Soap "appears
unnecessary".
COUNCIL
COMMENT
The exact nature of this
abbreviated GAP complaint is not totally clear. The PSC received complaints some
years ago about the triple packaging of collation packs of this product.
Discussions with Cussons resulted in much simplified packaging. These
collations, in twin packs and six packs, continue to use the new packaging and
offer considerable choice and price advantages to consumers. Cussons has
confirmed that its packaging of this product has maintained the much simplified
form as reported in the March 1993 issue of the PSC Report.
9. EXCESSIVE PACKAGING OF ESTRODERM TTS AND POOR LEGIBILITY OF INSTRUCTIONS
FOR USE OF MEDICINES AND OTHER PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS
COMPLAINT
That new packaging for Estroderm TTS patches is excessive and over-complex in
that it involves 4 patches packed in double foil, a pink sealed envelope
containing instructions and seven sticky day labels. Further, though not
connected with this product, that directions for use on the packaging of
medicines and other pharmaceutical products are often so small as to be
unreadable - with potential danger.
COUNCIL
COMMENT
The PSC has been unable to obtain
a response from the manufacturer of Estroderm at the time of this report going
to press. However, the packaging used for medication has to be approved by the
Medicines Control Agency (non-medicine health products, such as tampons, are
vetted by the Department of Trade and Industry and Department of Health). The
PSC believes that the changes may have been made as a result of legislation,
since costs involved in new packaging are considerable. Examining the packaging,
the PSC also believes that the pink pouch may be an attempt to provide an added
benefit for consumers. The pouch could be used to carry one or two patches on a
short business trip or holiday without the inconvenience of taking the whole
carton. On the question of the legibility of instructions for the use of
medicines, or indeed any other products, the PSC strongly takes the view that
all such instructions should be easily legible, clearly comprehensible and
indelible.
10. EXCESSIVE PACKAGING OF TERRY'S CHOCOLATE ORANGE - 3 CHOCOLATE BARS
COMPLAINT
That packaging for the collation pack of Terry's Chocolate Orange - 3 Chocolate
Bars is excessive in that the outer packaging is considerably larger than the
product it contains.
COUNCIL
COMMENT
This complaint was forwarded to
the PSC by a Trading Standards Officer. As such, the manufacturer was not
approached and the packaging was assessed in the light of the PSC's Code of
Practice. Analysis of the product showed that both the primary and secondary
packaging allowed some 20mm leeway. That is, the outer packaging was, in terms
of length, some 40mm longer than the product, itself 108mm in length. The
packaging is a traditional "flow-wrap" process where a continuous film
is wrapped around grouped products, sealed and cut between groups. Manufacturers
have no incentive to maximise the amount of film used. Most of the excess comes
from the need to avoid damage to the product. The PSC does not believe that in
this case the packaging is excessive.
11. "HONESTY OF PRESENTATION"
OF SCHWARTZKOPF "GLISS" INTENSIVE HAIR CARE
COMPLAINT
That packaging for Schwartzkopf "Gliss" Intensive Hair Care might
contravene standards on "honesty of presentation" in that the
container was double-walled.
COUNCIL
COMMENT
This complaint was forwarded to
the PSC by a Trading Standards Officer and again was assessed in the light of
the PSC's Code of Practice without contact with the manufacturer. The packaging
consists of a polypropylene octagon with an inner cylindrical insert that holds
the product. The container has chamfered edges. The product entirely fills the
inner container and matches the stated weight on the container. Measurements by
the PSC suggest an "effective fill" of 60 per cent of the outer
packaging. The octagonal shape allows easy handling of the product in the
bathroom or shower (the most likely places) and the inner cylinder allows all
the contents to be easily removed. There is no apparent technical requirement
for the double-wall construction. Ease of handling and ease of emptying are
considerable benefits and the 60 per cent effective fill compares reasonably
with similar products, though in the opinion of the PSC it is still
unsatisfactory. The container does not carry any indication that it is
double-walled, as is the case with some competing products. The shape and
construction of the container may reflect a change from previous materials -
such as glass, which would have thick walls - and constraints imposed by
existing filling lines. The Trading Standards office involved has advised that
following their discussions with the manufacturers, Schwartzkopf has advised
that they propose putting a statement on this, and any similar containers,
indicating a double walled construction.
12. EXCESSIVE PACKAGING OF HALF CUCUMBERS
COMPLAINT
That packaging of half cucumbers in shrink-wrapped film and a bag is excessive.
COUNCIL COMMENT
This GAP complaint mentioned a particular retailer. However, as this type of
packaging is common to all cucumbers sold, the PSC has treated it as a generic
concern. Whole cucumbers are immediately shrink wrapped in film after
harvesting. This controls moisture loss and respiration rate. Some of these
wrapped cucumbers will subsequently be halved, to present choice to consumers
who might waste some of a whole cucumber. Since this leaves an exposed end that
is likely to dry out, the shrink-wrapped halves are placed in a bag for further
protection. The PSC believes this type of packaging to be very minimal and to be
justified.
13. EXCESSIVE PACKAGING OF YOPLAIT
WILDLIFE FROMAGE FRAIS 12 PACK
COMPLAINT
That packaging of the Yoplait Wildlife Fromage Frais 12 pack is excessive in
that 12 pots are collated within a paper board sleeve and then the whole is
shrink wrapped.
RESPONSE
Yoplait Dairy Crest, suppliers of the product (which is imported from
France) are to move to a new packaging system that will enable the shrink
wrapping to be dispensed with. This is now available in some shops.
COUNCIL
COMMENT
The PSC is delighted by the rapid
response from Yoplait. While the PSC could recognise some rationale behind the
packaging, such as the need to prevent tampering and to ensure that all product
information on individual pots, particularly bar codes, was obscured, in
principal it was of the opinion that both board and shrink wrap were
unnecessary. The proposed change of format is therefore gratifying.
14. DECEPTIVE PACKAGING OF KETTLE FOODS
LTD KETTLE CHIPS
COMPLAINT
That the packaging of Kettle Chips is deceptive in that the bag containing
the product is filled with air and misrepresents the quantity of crisps.
COUNCIL
COMMENT
The product is a luxury potato
crisp. It is very brittle and therefore needs packaging that will not only
maintain the taste and quality of the crisps but also protect them from physical
damage. The film used has a very high barrier to light that helps to slow down
the oxidation of the fat in the crisps, so they do not become rancid, and it
also acts as an efficient barrier to moisture so the crisps stay crisp. The
"inflated" bag is produced on purpose, so that the pillow effect stops
the crisps becoming crushed into crumbs. The level of inflation varies with
temperature. When the crisps are being stored or transported in cool warehouses
and lorries, the inflation still has to be sufficient to prevent crushing. When
the product is displayed in a warm shop the pack becomes more inflated. Since
the packaging has to perform effectively throughout the distribution chain and
at all likely temperatures the PSC believes the volume of the bag is justified.