Analysis of packaging design its colour coding and labelling of contained sugar in dairy and cereal products

The purpose of developing the colour coding system is to create better awareness and help consumers monitor and understand the sugar content of foods. Our research focused on food products (dairy products and cereal products on the Slovenian market) that contain so-called hidden sugars, as these can cause many health risks. The aim of the study was to raise awareness of the sugar content in dairy products and cereals through a packaging design with a uniform labelling and coding system. During the process of this research, few answers were provided to the following questions: How can a labelling system be designed to be clear and impartial, what is the hierarchy and layout of food information on packaging, and how can the system be coherently integrated with existing packaging? The impact of the information design on the consumer in the food packaging industry, which helps in further execution, was analysed. Based on the research, variants of a multi-colour labelling system were created, differing in primary information graphics, colour, placement and formats. The packaging for an imaginary brand and the placement of the code system were designed. Finally, the packaging design was implemented in the 3D models for each food group. The result of this research is a collection of packaging models with a labelling system that informs consumers about sugar content, facilitates decision-making and helps them control their food intake. The colour-coded labels were applied to the packaging in a uniform and coherent manner, which can provide sufficient attention and information

Preparation and characterization of nonwoven fibrous biocomposites for footwear components

Chromium-tanned leathers used in the manufacture of footwear and leather goods pose an environmental problem because they contain harmful chemicals and are very difficult to recycle. A solution to this problem can be composite materials from tree leaves, fruit residues and other fibrous agricultural products, which can replace chromium-tanned leather. The present study describes the preparation of biocomposite leather-like materials from microbial cellulose and maple leave fibers as bio-fillers. The formulation was optimized by design of experiment and the prepared biocomposites characterized by tensile test, FTIR, DMA, SEM, adhesion test, volume porosity, water absorptivity, surface wettability and shape stability. From the viewpoint of future use in the footwear industry, results obtained showed that the optimized material was considerably flexible with tensile strength of 2.13 ± 0.29 MPa, elastic modulus of 76.93 ± 1.63 MPa and porosity of 1570 ± 146 mL/min. In addition, the material depicted good shape stability and surface adhesive properties. The results indicate that a suitable treatment of biomass offers a way to prepare exploitable nonwoven fibrous composites for the footwear industry without further burdening the environment. © 2020 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic-DKRVO [RP/CPS/2020/005, GAMA-018/2020, IGA/CPS/2019/009, IGA/CPS/2020/005]; Tomas Bata University in Zlin; Czech RepublicCzech Republic Governmen

Polymer based bioadhesive biomaterials for medical application—a perspective of redefining healthcare system management

This article deliberates about the importance of polymer-based bioadhesive biomaterials’ medical application in healthcare and in redefining healthcare management. Nowadays, the application of bioadhesion in the health sector is one of the great interests for various researchers, due to recent advances in their formulation development. Actually, this area of study is considered as an active multidisciplinary research approach, where engineers, scientists (including chemists, physicists, biologists, and medical experts), material producers and manufacturers combine their knowledge in order to provide better healthcare. Moreover, while discussing the implications of value-based healthcare, it is necessary to mention that health comprises three main domains, namely, physical, mental, and social health, which not only prioritize the quality healthcare, but also enable us to measure the outcomes of medical interventions. In addition, this conceptual article provides an understanding of the consequences of the natural or synthetic polymer-based bioadhesion of biomaterials, and its significance for redefining healthcare management as a novel approach. Furthermore, the research assumptions highlight that the quality healthcare concept has recently become a burning topic, wherein healthcare service providers, private research institutes, government authorities, public service boards, associations and academics have taken the initiative to restructure the healthcare system to create value for patients and increase their satisfaction, and lead ultimately to a healthier society. © 2020 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic-DKRVO [RP/CPS/2020/005]; COST ActionEuropean Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) [CA 15216

Chitosan Based Regenerated Cellulose Fibers Functionalized with Plasma and Ultrasound

The great potential of regenerated cellulose fibers, which offer excellent possibilities as a matrix for the design of bioactive materials, was the lead for our research. We focused on the surface modification of fibers to improve the sorption properties of regenerated cellulose and biocomposite regenerated cellulose/chitosan fibers, which are on the market. The purpose of our investigation was also the modification of regenerated cellulose fibers with the functionalization by chitosan as a means of obtaining similar properties to biocomposite regenerated cellulose/chitosan fibers on the market. Argon gas plasma was used for fiber surface activation and chitosan adsorption. Ultrasound was also used as a treatment procedure for the surface activation of regenerated cellulose fibers and treatment with chitosan. Analyses have shown that ultrasonic energy or plasma change the accessibility of free functional groups, structure and reactivity, especially in regenerated cellulose fibers. Changes that occurred in the morphology and in the structure of fibers were also reflected in their physical and chemical properties. Consequently, moisture content, sorption properties and water retention improved

The future of baby cosmetics packaging and sustainable development

Packaging waste\u27s ecological impact, stemming from resource depletion, plastic pollution, and climate concerns, is prompting environmental worries. Within the baby cosmetics domain, management task involves balancing safety, hygiene standards, consumer preferences, and regulations, all while adopting eco-friendly packaging. This study presents a holistic global assessment of sustainable packaging options tailored for the baby cosmetics sector. By employing a systematic methodology encompassing planning using Python programming, data evaluation, analysis, and synthesis, the investigation scrutinized packaging claims from 2048 brands, including 76 specializing in baby cosmetics. Findings reveal that while 39% of brands omit packaging material details, 61% embrace recyclable, refillable, or bio-based alternatives. This shift underscores a growing sustainability inclination, though undisclosed packaging materials indicate transparency gaps, urging enhanced regulations. Remarkably, only 14 baby cosmetic brands among those studied incorporate diverse certifications and standards. This study\u27s novelty lies in its exhaustive analysis of sustainable packaging solutions tailored for the baby cosmetics sector. It highlights the pressing need for cosmetic companies to adopt sustainable packaging, ensure transparency, and collaborate industry-wide to ensure a sustainable future for baby cosmetic packaging

SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING INNOVATIONS IN THE FASHION SECTOR: PROGRESS, CHALLENGES, AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

<p>The European Commission has proposed EU-wide regulations for recyclable packaging by 2030. Sustainable packaging innovations in the fashion sector have attracted public attention in recent years. However, it is uncertain how effective these companies are in reducing their use of virgin plastics, as the focus remains on improving the sustainability of garment production rather than packaging. Apparel and footwear brands are taking seven approaches to improving packaging: rethinking solutions, downsizing, eliminating plastic, reusing, recycling and composting. A study using a data-mining approach examined 400 international brands that promote sustainable packaging. The brands were categorized as progress, implementation, commitment and rethinking based on their sustainability mission statements. The results show that nearly 60% of fashion brands have made progress on sustainable packaging, with over 30% moving to improved packaging. Others have committed to future improvements. Footwear and apparel brands are adopting various sustainable packaging strategies, including The Plastic Global Commitment, Noissue Eco Packaging Alliance, One Tree Planted, The Responsible Packaging Movement and Re:Pack. This study presents the advances in sustainable packaging for apparel, footwear, accessories, etc. To manage environmental impact, sustainable packaging solutions should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, taking into account government initiatives and regulations. Although brand manufacturers are striving to find better packaging solutions, innovation in this area remains restrained.</p&gt

SUSTAINABLE FOOD PACKAGING: EMPOWERING CONSUMERS WITH COLOR-CODED SUGAR CONTENT AWARENESS

<p>The purpose of developing the color-coding system development serves a dual purpose: enhancing awareness of sugar content in foods and to promote sustainability. Our study focused on dairy products on the Slovenian market and addressed hidden sugars and associated health risks. By integrating sustainability, we aimed to raise awareness of sugar content through packaging design with a consistent labeling and coding approach.  Our research included key questions to ensure labeling effectiveness and sustainability. We focused on creating an impartial labeling system, organizing the hierarchy and layout of food information, and integrating seamlessly with existing packaging. Critical to successful implementation was evaluating the impact of the information design on consumer behavior in the area of food packaging. Based on our discoveries, we developed several variants of a multicolor and one colour labeling system. These variants differed in key information graphics, color palettes, placement, and formats. To illustrate the application of the system, we designed packaging for a fictitious brand and implemented the code system accordingly. The final step was to embed the packaging design into 3D models for each food category. Consistent and coherent color-coded labels were integrated into the packaging, effectively attracting consumer attention while providing important information. With sustainability at the forefront, our design approach aims to promote environmentally friendly practices from production to disposal. This holistic strategy promotes environmental responsibility throughout the packaging process.</p&gt

Chitosan solution containing zein and essential oil as bio based coating on packaging paper

Modifications of the packaging paper surface play an important role in a variety of industries, especially in the food sector. Uncoated paper has poor water and oil barrier properties due to its porous structure. In this study, packaging paper was successfully coated with six different coating solutions containing combinations of chitosan, zein and rosemary essential oil. The chitosan and zein were actually coated in two layersthe mixed chitosan–rosemary oil and the mixed zein–rosemary oil were each applied as one layer to the paper. The results showed increased oil barrier properties in the papers coated with mixed zein–rosemary oil and reduced water permeability in the papers coated with the chitosan–rosemary oil coating solution. The result of this two-layer coating showed excellent water (Cobb60 value of 2.18 g/m$^2$) and oil barrier properties. All the coated papers showed a high thermal stability, especially those coated with chitosan, zein and rosemary oil layer by layer. Scanning electron microscopy was used to verify the surface differences of the coated papers, such as the closed structure, pores and smoother surface, especially in the layer-wise coated samples. Due to their good mechanical and chemical properties, coated papers with rosemary oil can be used in many applications, possibly also in the field of repellents

Sustainable and Innovative Packaging Solutions in the Fashion Industry: Global Report

The fashion industry generates packaging waste through the entire supply chain. Although brands are making efforts to improve packaging sustainability as demands for low-impact packaging are rising, there is a lack of empirical evidence of innovative packaging solutions among fashion retailers. This study represents the first global report on sustainable packaging innovation in the fashion sector. A data-mining approach was utilized to gather a sample of 400 international fashion brands that advertise sustainable packaging solutions across five continents. The sustainability of the packaging solution was evaluated for each brand based on three factors: sustainability mission, the availability of packaging data, and the actual sustainability of the package. The results showed that 57% of brands have made evident progress in the sustainable packaging area; 34% of brands have initiated the transition from conventional to improved packaging; the remaining brands have committed to rethink (1%) or to improve (8%) their packaging in the future. By providing comprehensive state-of-the-art evidence about practical achievements in the sustainable packaging field, this global report intends to help academics and practitioners to evaluate the environmental, social, and economic impacts of existing packaging products and to design circular packaging that minimizes these impacts

Chitosan Based Regenerated Cellulose Fibers Functionalized with Plasma and Ultrasound

The great potential of regenerated cellulose fibers, which offer excellent possibilities as a matrix for the design of bioactive materials, was the lead for our research. We focused on the surface modification of fibers to improve the sorption properties of regenerated cellulose and biocomposite regenerated cellulose/chitosan fibers, which are on the market. The purpose of our investigation was also the modification of regenerated cellulose fibers with the functionalization by chitosan as a means of obtaining similar properties to biocomposite regenerated cellulose/chitosan fibers on the market. Argon gas plasma was used for fiber surface activation and chitosan adsorption. Ultrasound was also used as a treatment procedure for the surface activation of regenerated cellulose fibers and treatment with chitosan. Analyses have shown that ultrasonic energy or plasma change the accessibility of free functional groups, structure and reactivity, especially in regenerated cellulose fibers. Changes that occurred in the morphology and in the structure of fibers were also reflected in their physical and chemical properties. Consequently, moisture content, sorption properties and water retention improved