Toppan develops Film-Type Virusweeper Packaging with Antiviral & Antibacterial Functions

03 March 2021: COVID-19 pandemic has prompted an increase in safety and hygiene awareness among consumers and propelled demand for contactless environments and products offering antiviral action. In view of this, a film-type Virusweeper packaging with antiviral and antibacterial functions has been developed by Toppan Printing (Toppan), a global leader in communication, security, packaging, décor materials, and electronics solutions. Samples of Virusweeper film packaging will be available from March, with the launch of sales scheduled for April 2021. Film-type Virusweeper is ideal for flexible packaging, such as stand-up and pillow pouches, while the already available paper-based version can be used for color and decorative folding cartons.

According to the company, the new film packaging is an addition to Toppan’s “Smart Life-Value Packaging” lineup. Toppan took advantage of its unique printing and coating expertise to first add antiviral functionality to printed décor materials. Toppan subsequently applied the treatment technique to packaging, announcing Japan’s first paper-based carton packaging capable of reducing the presence of virus particles on surfaces in October last year. Virusweeper packaging inhibits the growth of certain viruses and bacteria and significantly reduces their numbers on surfaces.

The action of both the film and carton types of Virusweeper has been verified by measurement in line with ISO 21702 for antiviral activity and ISO 22196 for antibacterial activity on plastics and non-porous surfaces, and the packaging has been certified by Japan’s Society of International sustaining growth for Antimicrobial Articles (SIAA) for its antiviral and antibacterial performance. The packaging also conforms to Japan’s specifications and standards for foods and food additives.