Tamper evident packaging labels

Abstract

A bunch wrapped wrapper has a label affixed to it with a die cut portion provided within its perimeter, such that the die cut portion is at least partially torn away from the label when the label is removed to open the package to provide evidence of tampering. The packaging may be used to wrap confectionery pieces, where the edges of the wrapper are gathered at a flat side of the confectionery piece and the label is applied over the gathered edges of the wrapper on the flat side of the piece.

Description

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 402,316, filed Aug. 8, 2002, and incorporated herein by reference.[0002] The invention is directed to packaging that will provide evidence of tampering to packaging of a type typically associated with confectionery products, particularly, bunch wrap packaging.DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART[0003] Tamper evident packaging utilizing breakable seals is known. U.S. Pat. No. 4,874,096, for example, is directed to packaging for confectionery having a reclosable adhesive opening strip. The packaging is provided with a supplementary strip which is adhesively attached to the packaging and to the opening strip. The supplementary strip is also provided with pre-cut transverse lines, such that the strip breaks upon opening, which provides evidence of tampering if the package is subsequently reclosed.[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 5,987,850 discloses a process for applying a revenue seal to a cigarette pack. The s...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

0007] While various labels have been developed for placing on packaging, there continues to be a need in the art for labels which will provide evidence of tamper...

Problems solved by technology

This raises a particular concern that these products are more likely to be subjected to tampering.

None of the above-described prior art addresses the problems associated with providing tamper evident bunch wrap packaging in an attractive and economical format.

In some embodiments the label has die cut perforations in a closed shape, such that an attempt to remove the label results in the die cut portion tearing away, providing evidence of tampering.

In yet another aspect, a plurality of angles on the perimeter of a label facing away from the center of the label may provide evidence of tampering by providing tear propagation points, such that the label would be virtually impossible to remove without leaving evidence of tampering.

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