The Trickiness of Labeling Nutraceutical Bags

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The aim of any nutraceutical company is to provide a product that’s not only food and nutrients but expertly crafted, medical-grade products designed to provide a specific benefit. As a result, it’s important to ensure nutraceutical packaging and labeling showcase the science behind the product’s creation and lend the manufacturer the credibility that’s deserved.

Unfortunately, many nutraceuticals are packaged, by necessity, in bags that can make traditional labeling techniques appear less than professional.

How can nutraceutical companies add branding and graphics to these bags without appearing second-rate? More importantly, what’s the best way to add required nutritional information in a sleek, professional manner? In most cases, the solution involves digital flexible packaging.

What Is Digital Flexible Packaging?

Digital flexible packaging combines two up and coming printing and labeling technologies – the digital printing process and a flexible bag or pouch. As mentioned, flexible packaging for nutraceuticals often consists of plastic pouches with a plastic zippered closure and tear-off heat seal. These pouches are FDA and USDA compliant, crucial for any packaging that will contain a nutraceutical.

Digital printing involves the use of a large, computerized printing press to perform a contactless printing process. A file containing a digital image can be transferred to the press via a computer, and printed on substrates of nearly any type, including the flexible plastic used to construct food-safe pouches. Using this method, the digital printer can cover the entire surface of the pouch.

RELATED ARTICLE: 7 Reasons to Consider Custom Printed Stand-Up Pouches

Why Digital Flexible Packaging?

Unlike traditional paper label printing, a digital printer can print on thin, flexible materials – allowing nutraceutical companies to add high-quality graphics to the plastic itself. This type of labeling appears much more high-end than most paper labels. As a result, nutraceutical companies can seize the authenticity and scientific look needed to lend credence to the product inside.

In addition, digital printing can be customized to suit nearly any application. Branding stays sleek, solid, and professional with vibrant imagery, sharp text, and remarkable contrast. No matter the artwork or type necessary, a digitally printed image on a custom flexible pouch is an ideal solution to ensure branded nutraceuticals don't appear cheap or generic.

RELATED ARTICLE: The Latest Trends in the Nutraceutical Market

Finally, choosing digital printing for flexible packaging allows for relatively quick lead times. There’s no need for plate setup or major shifts in production, and set up costs remain relatively low for each separate packaging design. As a result, digital printing is perfect for short to medium runs and allows superior flexibility when it comes to printing different packaging for seasonal items or alternative products.

Are Digital Flexible Packaging Solutions Ideal for Your Nutraceutical Product?

If your nutraceutical company is searching for a professional, high-quality method of labeling bags or pouches, look no further than digital flexible packaging. Century Label is an industry leader in this high-definition, custom printing option; our services have minimal lead time and are reasonably priced compared to traditional methods.

For more information about digital flexible printing options or to request a quote, contact us today.

The Latest Trends in the Nutraceutical Market

The nutraceutical market is an established one, but every industry has developing trends. What are the recent trends in nutraceuticals, and what is the best way to prepare for them? Companies planning to break into the nutraceutical market should know how to capitalize on the latest market trends to capture target consumers.

Private Branding

Many consumers have seen nationwide product recalls and other news that draws them toward private labels. Retailers like Costco, Walmart and others are developing their own “lifestyle brands,” or privately branded product lines that promote wellness. This offers customers an accessible and often cheaper alternative to nationwide brands, and some companies like Safeway are even pivoting toward wellness as their main business focus.

RELATED ARTICLE: The Importance of Packaging: Why it’s Necessary to Take Branding Seriously

Cutting-Edge Delivery Options

The nutraceutical consumer base has a diverse range of needs, and typical pills and dietary supplements may not work for every consumer. Some people need liquids, water-soluble powders, chewable tablets, or even topical products. While these non-traditional nutraceutical product forms offer consumers a variety of options for taking their supplements and managing their diets, they also present new challenges to product developers who must create effective products in new forms. Careful development of unique product types can be incredibly rewarding.

Protein and Supplement Alternatives

The demand for protein-based supplements and nutraceuticals has skyrocketed. Additionally, many people are turning away from traditional sources of protein like meat in favor of plant-based protein supplement options. Nutraceutical companies can capitalize on this demand by developing plant-based protein products that break the mold of the usual drink powders, protein bars and supplement pills. Products like cookies, breads and other popular food items are great options for new protein-packed nutraceutical products.

Rising Consumer Standards

The general public has grown more health conscious over the last few years, and many companies have recognized that consumer standards have risen significantly. Customers no longer have patience for companies that engage in questionable business practices, irresponsibly sourced raw materials or little commitment to sustainability. Most modern consumers reward companies that display corporate social responsibility, sustainable business practices and ongoing dedication to developing healthier products.

Custom Labels

Nutraceutical developers have an unprecedented level of opportunity today to capture new consumers with state-of-the-art supplements and products, but standing out from the crowd is still a must. Custom-designed product labels and packaging help nutraceutical brands establish themselves as unique, valuable and trustworthy.

RELATED ARTICLE: Ways to Make Your Nutraceutical Labeling Stand Out

Century Label has nearly 40 years of experience helping our clients develop fantastic branded product packaging for various industries, including food products, dietary supplements and nutraceuticals.

Contact us to learn more about nutraceutical branding and how we can help you develop incredible product packaging and labeling that speaks to modern trends.

How to Market Nutraceuticals and Be Successful

Nutraceuticals are popular—they take up a whole aisle of the grocery store. Companies that are considering breaking into the emerging nutraceutical markets should know how to market their products and which aspects of their advertising will have the most significant impact.

Why the Nutraceutical Boom?

Nutraceuticals are food products that contain health-boosting additives. Also called “bioceuticals” or supplemented foods, these products exist in the same category as dietary supplements according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA regulates dietary supplements, but many nutraceutical products either do not qualify for regulation or circumvent the regulatory process.

Americans are growing more health-conscious, and foods with clear medical benefits are appealing to many people of all ages. Given the choice between a standard food product and one that contains an added medical benefit such as extra antioxidants, high protein, or additional vitamins, most consumers will probably go for the clearly healthier option.

Building Your Nutraceutical Brand Image

In order for a nutraceutical business to succeed, companies need to take a by-the-book approach:

• Verify compliance requirements with the FDA. Failing to meet these requirements could mean products never make it to store shelves, or, worse, they could lead to the FDA or other government agencies fining the business for noncompliance.

• Include all required information on nutraceutical labels. Century Label offers a full range of commercial product label design and our printing and design teams are familiar with the requirements facing businesses in similar markets. We can ensure product labels contain all required information in sleek, attractive, and functional packaging.

• Develop strong branding. Nutraceuticals are a booming industry rife with competition, so companies need to create a strong, competitive product to capture the attention of the desired consumers with memorable branding.

RELATED ARTICLE: Ways to Make Your Nutraceutical Labeling Stand Out

Emerging Nutraceutical Niches

Companies that are planning to launch a nutraceutical product line should consider focusing on one of the top target markets:

• Joint health. Many Americans, especially seniors, struggle with joint pain.

• Gut remedies. Health-conscious people are looking for ways to improve digestion and metabolism.

• Skeletal strength. As we age, bone density and resiliency diminish.

No matter the niche, products should be eye-catching, include all required information on the packaging or label, and show customers clear value and trustworthiness when they see it.

Century Label can handle custom product packaging and labeling products of all kinds, including nutraceuticals. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

How to Make Sure Your Supplement Labels Comply With FDA Standards

With so many regulations, ensuring compliance with FDA standards when it comes to supplementary labels can be a challenge. Following the rules is as important as a great design.

Failure to follow federal guidelines with labeling could result in consequences such as warnings, injunctions, and even criminal prosecution. When going to market and selling a supplement, here is how to ensure labeling complies with FDA standards.

1. Statement of Identity

The statement of identity is the name that will appear on the label of the supplement. In general, a statement of identity is the name specified by federal regulation or law. If this isn't obvious, it should be a name that is appropriately descriptive. A brand name doesn't count.

On the front of the package, called the Principle Display Panel (PDP), the brand name can be listed, but other information must be supplied. This includes the statement of identity, such as "Dietary Supplement" or "Calcium Supplement," and the net quantity of contents (weight, number, or volume measure).

2. Clear Directions

The FDA requires that all supplement labels have clear directions for recommended and safe use. These might include the recommended dosage, as well as how to safely store the product.

For example, directions might state that the customer should "take one caplet daily in the morning." An example of a storage recommendation is to "Store in a cool, dry place."

3. Supplement Facts Formatting

On the opposite side of the label from the PDP, directions, and any warnings or disclaimers should be the Supplement Facts section. This label includes information about the ingredients in the product, the serving size, and the servings per container.

The FDA is specific about how this part of the label is to be formatted.

• The Supplement Facts should appear to the immediate right of the PDP

• All content must be legible, which is why black and white are common color selections

• The title "Supplement Facts" must span the width of the panel in the largest font possible

• Minimum font sizes are required but depend on various factors such as label size and how many ingredients are listed

RELATED ARTICLE: Ways to Make Your Nutraceutical Labeling Stand Out

4. Disclaimers

The FDA also requires that sellers of supplements provide adequate warning to consumers of potential risks. There should be any applicable warnings, such as "Keep Out of Reach of Children," on the label.

In the same area, manufacturers can and should include clear contact information. This should give consumers the company name, address or phone number, and website address if one is available.

While FDA guidelines seem particular and even nitpicky in some cases, following the rules is necessary when going to market with a supplement in the U.S. From a consumer's perspective, it helps to know where on the label to look for key information concerning ingredients and for peace of mind.

Century Label not only specializes in creating unique and branded custom labels and packing solutions but can also help your business ensure that it is compliant with FDA regulations.

Guarantee high-quality compliant packaging and labeling for the nutraceutical industry with Century Label. Contact us for more information or to get started today.

Ways to Make Your Nutraceutical Labeling Stand Out

Most top-quality supplements provide similar health-maintaining benefits to one another. 

So, when the supplements are finally displayed on the store shelf, what make your nutraceutical product stand out from the rest? There are a few important characteristics to make your nutraceutical labels stand out. 

Know Your Target Audience Better Than the Competition

Targeting supplements for body builders is different than supplements that help the elderly get a better night’s sleep. Monitor the questions your customers have about your supplements to know their concerns and the kind of response you need to make. Consumers value authenticity and transparency; most of them won’t understand the scientific reasons your supplement is superior. They will depend on the feeling of confidence they have that your advertisements are telling them the truth.

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Package Design Matters

When it comes time to choose a supplement off the shelf, an appealing package design is everything. Consumers need to know which product is the best fit for them, so quality and pricing are important—but when compared to the competition that provides the same type of high-quality product, why would make the consumer choose your brand? 

One answer is labeling. 

Appealing Label and Design

Knowing your target audience will help you design a brand that is specifically geared toward your consumers. Meeting the needs of your consumers will help to improve your company’s image as well as increase sales. A creative label and package design will appeal to the consumer with a memorable visual design.

Color choices, shape, and font type and size are elements that all need to be considered to represent your product's brand. Studies have found that 65% of new customers are influenced by how a product is packaged, while 55% of returning customers are loyal to the product because of the packaging design.

Criteria for Branding Your Supplements

The image your company displays cultivates trust and a sense of dependability. The brand packaging is the last thing a consumer sees before he or she decides on which brand to purchase. 

Some elements on your nutraceutical labels will help your supplements stand out:

• Image appeal. Your packaging contributes to your brand image. A distinct product design establishes a relationship with consumers with which they identify. 

• FDA guidelines. Your health supplements should include Supplement Facts – ingredients and nutritional values that meet FDA guidelines.

• Additional health claims. Adding additional health claims for supplements can increase sales by 20%. Packaging that included additional health claims such as promoting a healthy digestive system or controlling blood sugar have been shown to have a higher appeal to consumers.

Labeling a Brand

A supplement that promotes a healthy lifestyle succeeds because its top-quality ingredients are matched by its top-quality appearance. Century Label understands what aspects of labeling need to be emphasized to appeal to the consumer. Our labeling services include shrink sleeves, flexible packaging, and pressure sensitive labels that will help to establish and deliver a brand that your customers will remember and trust.

Let’s Get Started

The design team at Century Label is ready to help you take your vision and apply it to your products. We will take you through every step of the process, preserving the integrity of your brand and using high-quality printing techniques. 

Our customer care specialists are standing by to make sure every order is exactly the way you imagined it, ensuring your satisfaction. Request a quote today to get started on your own quest for branding success.

When it Comes to Nutraceutical Packaging and Labeling, What’s on the Outside Counts, Too!

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By 2025, the global market for nutraceutical products is projected to reach $578.23 billion according to a December 2017 report by Grand View Research, Inc. There’s no doubt about it – capturing a share of this burgeoning market can be profitable, but will be increasingly difficult, as more competition enters the field.

As the demand for nutraceutical products grows, inevitably, consumer demands will evolve. And, as you probably already know, consumers view packaging – whether consciously or not – as a key factor in making buying decisions. Packaging and labeling can make or break products in this category – maybe even more than in other categories.

Changing demands must be met by changing packaging.

With a growing awareness of health issues and an aging baby boomer population, producers and packagers of nutraceuticals that want to thrive must stay in touch with the changing demands of consumers. In addition, they’d better be committed to – and willing to invest in – making changes to their product packaging to align with consumers’ desires.

E-Commerce presents a different set of concerns for nutraceuticals.

Online vitamin and supplement sales are increasing 12% faster than the e-commerce average. As more nutraceutical manufacturers look to grow online sales, they must also tackle the challenges posed by the e-commerce model. For example, shipping may mean that your products will be bundled with other non-similar products. And the conditions (moisture, temperatures, etc.) will most likely be unknown. Weight and size are also of greater concern.

Failure to provide the necessary packaging features that stand up to the conditions of e-commerce distribution will result in a poor consumer experience that will reduce sales and could even lead to the end of the brand.

Stand out with disruptive package and label designs.

Whether consumers purchase their nutraceuticals online, or in a store, they are overwhelmed with options. In the nutraceutical space, it’s becoming even more necessary to develop packaging and label designs that disrupt the eye of consumers and grab attention.

But, while important, the focus on differentiation cannot be allowed to trump the other critical factor in consumer decision-making: trust. Because product credibility and trust in nutraceutical brands so heavily impact the buying decision of consumers, it’s vital for nutraceutical manufacturers to invest in the right packaging to convey that credibility, while standing out from the crowd.

Should flexible packaging be in the mix?

For manufacturers of some nutraceuticals, thinking outside of the traditional bottle should be part of their plan. Consumers love flexible packaging – as long as it delivers a quality product in the expected condition. Flexible packaging, such as pouches, films, bags, envelopes, sachets, wraps, stick packs and foils–stand-up and lay-flat–are all types of flexible packaging widely used by manufacturers today. These types of packaging can offer maximum impact without taking up a large footprint on store shelves and easily stack or nest for display or transportation.

Environmental concerns of nutraceutical consumers.

A growing number of consumers are committed to environmental responsibility. To consider environmentally friendly packaging options is especially wise for nutraceutical manufacturers, as sustainability is especially important to nutraceutical customers. Because many of these consumers are looking for a natural alternative to traditional prescription drugs, they are more likely to show concern for the environment. Products packaged with too much wasted material can be a turn-off to these consumers. In addition to being convenient, flexible packaging can offer an efficient option that appeals to this segment.

It’s an added benefit that flexible packaging can reduce production, inventory and transportation costs to manufacturers.

Labels and packaging that sells, informs and teaches.

If a company opts to utilize a material or container that is unfamiliar to consumers, providing proper disposal instructions on the label and proactively marketing the sustainable innovation will help to ease the learning curve.

Expert advice to ensure the best packaging solutions.

Century Label recognizes the fact that custom printed labels are a vital component of nutraceutical marketing. Nutraceutical products combine dietary and medicinal properties and include many health and beauty benefits.

We’ll help you highlight your ingredients and features with attractive and easy-to-read custom nutraceutical labels. We’ve been creating professional and informative nutraceutical packaging that will earn the initial trust of potential customers and encourage them to try your product.

Our expertise includes the printing of nutraceutical labels, shrink sleeves and flexible packaging in multiple shapes and sizes, including tamper-resistant versions.

An effective nutraceutical marketing plan includes a very intentional packaging and label design. It almost goes without saying that nutraceuticals require the right form, function and design. Because so many factors enter in, it’ll pay to include a reputable label and packaging expert with a solid nutraceutical track record.

For a no-obligation, confidential initial consultation with one of our nutraceutical packaging experts, click here.