If you're reading this, you're probably involved in the vitamin and supplement industry.  And if you are, then we don't need to tell you how competitive your market is.  As leaders in the packaging industry, we face pretty stiff competition ourselves and know a little something about what it takes to compete successfully. With that in mind, we share with you our thoughts on the best vitamin and supplement packaging for beating your competition.  

First, let's be clear about something.  When we say "best" vitamin and supplement packaging, we aren't necessarily talking about simply the strongest, most protective package available, although that is certainly an important component.  Rather, we're referring to packaging that possesses a combination of features which, in total, result in an option that stands above all others. 

Okay, so we know strength isn't the only factor to be considered when choosing your product packaging, but it remains the most significant. For your vitamin and supplement packaging to be truly effective, it must protect the contents from vapor, odor, moisture, pests, and, for specific products, perhaps extra air and/or UV light. There are, of course, several types of packaging that meet these requirements, including the standard plastic jars/jugs/bottles most consumers associate with vitamins, supplements, and every other tablet or capsule product. There is, however, another option that meets the criteria as well: Flexible retail packaging.

What is flexible retail packaging?  Simply put, it possesses strong, durable, and puncture-resistant barriers that are, as you might have guessed, flexible as well. This includes such styles as stand up pouches, flat barrier bags, flat bottom bags, and spouted stand up bags for liquids.

To determine whether a particular style of flexible retail packaging is right for your brand, consider the following:

Strength.  Constructed from scientifically formulated film layers that have been laminated together specifically for what you are packaging, how it will be shipped, stored, and even merchandised, flexible retail packaging provides all the protection you require.

Shelf life. The same barrier qualities that keep unwanted things out also serve to keep good things in, things such as freshness and nutritional properties, thereby extending the "best by" date of your brand's products.

Convenience. The flexible barrier makes this packaging convenient to store. In addition, optional tear notches make each package easy to open and available zip lock closures make long-term storage safe and secure. Pour spouts and resealable caps provide the same functionality for your liquid vitamins and supplements.

Marketability.  Remember, we're talking about the best vitamin and supplement packaging for beating your competition. The greater the capacity your packaging has for distinguishing your brand in the marketplace, the better. This is where flexible retail packaging really excels.  It is suitable for custom printing (in up to 12 colors), can be affixed with product labels or other company stickers, and can be made from clear plastic, opaque film, or even foil. Clear "windows" can be inserted into a film panel or you can combine any or all of these features into one package design.

What's more, round and sombrero-shaped hang holes are also available, both of which provide grocers, health food stores and other retailers a product display option in addition to that afforded by this packaging's ability to stand up on a shelf.

Cost effectiveness.  Flexible retail packaging, printed or plain, is one of the lowest cost packaging options for vitamins and supplements.

Environmentally sound.  The flexible retail packaging we are discussing is recyclable, yes, but perhaps more importantly it takes up no more space than an empty shipping envelope when and if it is thrown away in a landfill.

In closing, you’ve got a great product but it needs protected as well as to stand out and get noticed on a store shelf.  Consider flexible retail packaging instead of traditional pills, jars, and canisters and you’ll not only save money, you’ll build your business as well.