GB2493836A - Tamper indicating label seal for two part containers - Google Patents

Abstract

A tamper-evident label 410 for sealing packaging, e.g. container 400 having first and second container portions 402, 404 that can be moved relative to one another to open the packaging is disclosed. The tamper-evident label 410 comprises a base layer 412 having a first base portion 416 arranged to be adhered to the first packaging portion 402, and a second base portion 418 arranged to be adhered to the second packaging portion 404 and including a pull-tab 442. The adhesive strength of the first base portion 416 is greater than the adhesive strength of the second base portion 418. The base layer 412 comprises a tear initiation feature 420 arranged so that in use the second base portion 418 can be torn away from the first base portion 416 along a tear direction by pulling the pull-tab 442 so as to separate the first and second base portions 416, 418 and detach the second base portion 418 from the second packaging portion 404, thereby allowing the packaging 400 to be opened. The base layer preferably comprises a mono oriented polypropylene.

Description

TAMPER-EVIDENT LABEL

The invention relates to a tamper-evident label, in particular, although not exclusively, to a tamper-evident label that can be resealed.

Many different types of packaging exist. One known type of packaging comprises first and second packaging portions that can be moved relative to one another to provide access to the product. Examples include, cigarette boxes having a main box and a hinged lid, tobacco pouches having a main pouch and a flap, CD jewel cases having a cover and a rear, coffee packets having an open top that can be folded over to seal the opening.

It is often desirable or necessary to provide a tamper-evident feature that indicates to the consumer that the packaging has not already been opened. One of the most common methods is to provide the packaging with a filmic overwrap that must be removed before the packaging can be opened. For example, a cigarette box is usually overwrapped with a film and a tear tape is provided to tear through the film so that the box can be opened. If the filmic overwrap is not present, the consumer knows that the cigarette box may already have been opened.

Whilst this is entirely satisfactory for many applications, there may be a desire to reduce the amount of packaging used for products. It is therefore desirable to provide a tamper-evident feature which may be used to reduce the amount of packaging used to package products securely.

In a broad aspect the invention relates to a tamper-evident label comprising a base layer which can be separated into two parts.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a tamper-evident label for sealing packaging having first and second packaging portions that can be moved relative to one another to open the packaging, the tamper-evident label comprising: a base layer having a first base portion arranged to be adhered to the first packaging portion, and a second base portion arranged to be adhered to the second packaging portion and including a pull-tab, wherein the adhesive strength of the first base portion is greater than the adhesive strength of the second base portion, the base layer comprising a tear initiation feature arranged so that in use the second base portion can be torn away from the first base portion along a tear direction by pulling the pull-tab so as to separate the first and second base portions and detach the second base portion from the second packaging portion, thereby allowing the packaging to be opened.

The label may be elongate in the same direction as the tear direction. The first and second base portions may be substantially coextensive in the longitudinal direction and may be arranged to be separated along a longitudinal line.

The width of the pull-tab may be greater than the width of the second base portion.

The width of the pull-tab may be substantially the same as the width of the base layer.

The base layer may comprise a material that is arranged to preferentially tear in the tear direction. The base layer may comprise a directionally oriented polymer. The base layer may comprise a mono oriented polymer, such as mono oriented polypropylene. This allows the second base portion to be torn away from the first base portion without the need for perforations or weakened lines or the like.

The tear initiation feature may be a cut or notch in the base layer adjacent to the pull-tab.

At least part of the lower side of the base layer may be provided with an adhesive such that the first and second base portions can be adhered to the first and second packaging portions respectively. At least a part of the adhesive in the region of the second base portion may be overcoated with a deadening layer or screen so as to reduce its adhesive strength.

The upper side and/or the lower side of the base layer may be at least partially printed.

The invention also relates to a wound reel of labels comprising a wound backing sheet with a plurality of labels, each in accordance with any statement herein, releasably adhered to the backing sheet. Alternatively, the labels may be self-wound without a backing sheet.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided packaging for at least one article or substance comprising: first and second packaging portions that can be moved relative to one another so as to open the packaging to provide access to the at least one article or substance; and a tamper-evident label in accordance with any statement herein, wherein the first base portion is adhered to the first packaging portion and wherein the second base portion is adhered to the second packaging portion so as to seal the packaging and prevent the packaging from being opened without separating the first and second base portions by tearing the second base portion away from the first base portion and detaching the second base portion from the second packaging portion; wherein the adhesive strength between the first base portion and the first packaging portion is greater than the adhesive strength between the second base portion and the second packaging portion. The lid may be threadedly detachably attached to the bottom part or may be detachably attached by a snap-fit arrangement.

The packaging may be a pot, tub or container, which may be substantially cylindrical, and wherein one of the packaging portions is a bottom part for retaining the at least one article or substance and wherein the other packaging portion is a lid detachably attached to the bottom part. The label may overlap the lid and the bottom part such that they cannot be moved relative to one another without damaging the label. The first base portion may only be adhered to the first packaging portion. If the packaging is cylindrical and the label is elongate, the longitudinal length of the label may extend around the circumference of the outer cylindrical surface of the packaging.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a tamper-evident label for sealing packaging having first and second packaging portions that can be moved relative to one another to open the packaging, the tamper-evident label comprising: a base layer having a first base portion arranged to be adhered to the first packaging portion and a second base portion arranged to be adhered to the second packaging portion, the base layer comprising first and second spaced tear initiation features arranged so that in use a tear strip can be torn away from the base layer in a tear direction so as to separate the first and second base portions, thereby allowing the packaging to be opened. The first and second tear initiation features allow a tear strip to be torn away from the base layer itself without the need for a separate tear tape or thread to be provided underneath the base layer. This reduces the cost of the label and allows it to be manufactured with ease.

The base layer may comprise or may be made from a material that is arranged to preferentially tear in the tear direction. The base layer may comprise or be made from a directionally oriented polymer. The base layer may comprise or be made from a mono oriented polymer, such as mono oriented polypropylene. This allows the tear strip to be torn away from the base layer without the need for perforations or weakened lines or the like.

The first and second tear initiation features may be provided on the same edge of the base layer. The first and second tear initiation features may be spaced apart by substantially the same distance as the width of the tear strip. The first tear initiation feature may be a cut or notch in the edge of the base layer. The second tear initiation feature may be a cut or notch in the edge of the base layer. The base layer may comprise a pull-tab which is adjacent to the first and second tear initiation features.

The first and second tear initiation features may define the tear strip that can be torn away from the base layer.

At least part of the lower side of the first base portion and at least part of the lower side of the second base portion may be provided with an adhesive such that the first and second base portions can be adhered to the first and second packaging portions respectively. The adhesive may be permanent adhesive. The term "permanent" in this context means that it is difficult for a user to remove the base portions from the packaging portions without damaging the packaging. The lower side of the base layer in the region of the tear strip may have low adhesive strength. This prevents the tear strip from adhering to the packaging which allows it to be removed with ease without damaging the packaging. The lower side of the base layer in the region of the tear strip may be adhesive free or may be provided with an adhesive barrier or deadening layer over a tayer of adhesive.

The tamper-evident label may further comprise a reseal portion extending from the first base portion which in use can be adhered to and detached from the second packaging portion. This allows the packaging to be resealed after initial opening. The reseal portion may be part of the base layer or may be a separate layer, for example.

At least a part of the lower side of the reseal portion may be provided with an adhesive.

This adhesive may be a reseal adhesive. A reseal adhesive has a lower adhesive strength than a permanent adhesive and therefore the reseal portion can be adhered to and removed from a packaging portion multiple times without significantly damaging the packing portion. In use, the reseal portion may be adhered to and detached from the second base portion which is attached to the second packaging portion.

The tamper-evident label may further comprise a reseal layer disposed above the base layer which comprises the reseal portion and a hinge portion that is permanently attached to the first base portion. The hinge portion may be permanently attached to the first base portion by an adhesive such as a permanent adhesive. The term "permanent" means that the adhesive strength of the adhesive is such that the hinge portion is not easily detached from the base portion.

At least a portion of the upper side of the base layer may be provided with a release coating. This may allow the reseal portion to be adhered to, and removed from the base layer multiple times with ease and without significantly damaging the base layer.

At least a portion of the upper side of the first base portion may be provided with a release coating. At least a portion of the upper side of the second base portion may be provided with a release coating.

The lower side of the reseal portion of the reseal layer in the region of the tear strip may have low adhesive strength. This may prevent the reseal portion from adhering to the packaging when the tear strip is removed. The lower side of the reseal portion of the reseal layer in the region of the tear strip may be adhesive free or may be provided with an adhesive barrier or deadening layer.

The reseal layer may further comprise a finger lift portion that is not adhered to the second base portion or the second packaging portion. This may allow a consumer to peel back the reseal layer with ease. The lower side of the finger lift portion may be adhesive free or may be provided with an adhesive barrier or deadening layer.

The reseal layer may comprise a polymer or paper.

The base layer may comprise the reseal portion which may be disposed between the first base portion and the second base portion. In such a situation the reseal portion would be part of the base layer which may be a substantially continuous film. This may provide a single-layer tamper-evident resealable label. The first and second tear initiation features may be disposed between the reseal portion and the second base portion so that in use, when the tear strip is torn away from the base layer, the second base portion is separated from the first base portion and the reseal portion.

The base layer may comprise a finger lift portion which is disposed between the reseal portion and the second base portion that in use is not adhered to the second packaging porUon. The lower side of the finger lift portion may be adhesive free or may be provided with an adhesive deadening layer or an adhesive barrier.

The upper side and/or the lower side of the base layer may be at least partially printed.

The base layer may be printed with a commercial graphic or with a security feature, for example. In one arrangement the upper or lower side of the tear strip could be printed with a colour to aid identification of the tear strip.

The upper side and/or the lower side of the reseal layer may be at least partially printed.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided packaging for at least one article or substance comprising: first and second packaging portions that can be moved relative to one another so as to open the packaging to provide access to the at least one article or substance; and a tamper-evident label in accordance with any statement herein! wherein the first base portion is adhered to the first packaging portion and wherein the second base portion is adhered to the second packaging portion so as to seal the packaging and prevent the packaging from being opened without tearing the tear strip away from the base layer.

The packaging may be a box for smoking articles. One of the packaging portions may be a main box portion for retaining the smoking articles. The other packaging portion may be a lid portion hingedly attached to the main box portion and moveable between at least a closed position and an open position. In another arrangement the packaging may be a box for tea, for example.

The packaging may be a pouch for tobacco. One of the packaging portions may be a main pouch portion for containing the tobacco. The other packaging portion may be a flap attached to the main pouch portion and moveable between at least a closed position and an open position.

According to yet a further aspect of the invention there is provided a reseal tamper-evident label for sealing packaging having first and second packaging portions that can be moved relative to one another to open the packaging, the reseal tamper-evident label comprising: a base layer having a first base portion arranged to be adhered to the first packaging portion and a second base portion arranged to be adhered to the second packaging portion, wherein a tear strip can be torn away from the label in a tear direction so as to separate the first and second base portions, thereby allowing the packaging to be opened; and a reseal portion extending from the first base portion which in use can be adhered to and detached from the second packaging portion.

The invention may comprise any combination of the features and/or limitations referred to herein, except combinations of such features as are mutually exclusive.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a tamper-evident label; Figure 2 schematically shows a front view of the tamper-evident label of Figure 1; Figure 3 schematically shows the tamper-evident label of Figure 1 with the reseal layer peeled away; Figure 4 schematically shows the tamper-evident label of Figure 1 with the reseal layer peeled away and the tear strip torn away; Figure 5 schematically shows a front view of the tamper-evident label of Figure 4; Figure 6 schematically shows the tamper-evident label of Figure 1 with the tear strip torn away and the reseal layer folded down; Figure 7 schematically shows the tamper-evident label of Figure 1 applied to a cigarette box; Figure 8 schematically shows the cigarette box of Figure 7 with the tear strip torn away; Figure 9 schematically shows the cigarette box of Figure 7 with the lid in an open position; Figure 10 schematically shows a front view of a second embodiment of a tamper-evident label; Figure 11 schematically shows a front view of a third embodiment of a tamper-evident label; Figure 12 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a tamper-evident label; Figure 13 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of a tamper-evident label; Figure 14 schematically shows a front view of the tamper-evident label of Figure 13; Figure 15 schematically shows the tamper-evident label of Figure 13 with the tear strip torn away; Figure 16 schematically shows the front view of the tamper-evident label of Figure 15; Figure 17 schematically shows the tamper-evident label of Figure 13 with the reseal portion peeled away; Figure 18 schematically shows the tamper-evident label of Figure 13 applied to a tobacco pouch; Figure 19 schematically shows the tobacco pouch of Figure 18 with the tear strip torn away; Figure 20 schematically shows the tobacco pouch of Figure 18 with the flap in an open position; Figure 21 schematically shows a front view of a sixth embodiment of a tampei-evident label; Figure 22 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of the tamper-evident label of Figure 21; Figure 23 schematically shows packaging to which the label of Figure 21 can be applied; Figure 24 schematically shows the packaging of Figure 23 sealed with the tamper-evident label of Figure 21; Figure 25 schematically shows the packaging of Figure 24 with the first and second base portions of the tamper-evident label partially separated; and Figure 26 schematically shows the packaging of Figure 24 with the first and second base portions of the tamper-evident label completely separated.

Figures 1 and 2 show a first embodiment of a generally rectangular tamper-evident label 10 that is adhered to packaging 1 comprising first and second packaging portions 2, 4 that can move relative to one another so as to open the packaging 1. Examples of packaging include, but are not limited to, boxes having a main portion and an openable lid, such as a cigarette box, or a flexible pouch having a main pouch portion and an openable flap, such as a tobacco pouch. As can be seen in Figures 1 and 2, the first and second packaging portions 2, 4 meet one another, or overlap, and the tamper-evident tabel 10 overlaps the first and second packaging portions 2, 4.

With reference to Figure 1, the tamper-evident label 10 is of a laminate structure and comprises a base layer 12 and a reseal layer 14 that is disposed above the base layer 12. In this particular embodiment the base layer 12 is a film of mono oriented polypropylene (MOPP) and the reseal layer 14 is a film of polypropylene. It should be appreciated that other suitable materials could be used. For example, the base layer 12 may be a film of material that is arranged to preferentially tear in a particular tear direction and therefore may be any directionally oriented film. The reseal layer 14 may be polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE) or paper.

In this particular embodiment the base layer 12 and the reseal layer 14 are transparent, however, in other embodiments one or both of the layers 12, 14 may be pigmented or metallised, for example. In this embodiment the thickness of the base layer 12 is approximately 40 microns and the thickness of the reseal layer 14 is approximately 60 microns. However, any suitable thicknesses may be used.

The base layer 12 is continuous and comprises a first base portion 16 that is adjacent to a second base portion 18. The first base portion 16 is at one end of the label 10 and the second base portion 18 is at the opposite end of the label. The base layer 12 is also provided with first and second tear initiation features 20, 22. In this embodiment the tear initiation features 20, 22 are in the form of two cuts in the base layer 12 positioned between the first and second base portions 16, 18. The tear initiation features 20, 22 are provided on the same edge or side of the base layer 12 and are spaced from one another. As will be described in detail below, the tear initiation features 20, 22 allow a tear strip 24 to be torn away from the base layer 12 through its entire thickness and width so as to separate the first and second base portions 16, 18.

The lower surface of the first and second base portions 16, 18 are provided with a permanent pressure sensitive adhesive coating 26so that the label 10 can be adhered to the first and second packaging portions 2, 4 by the application of pressure. The nature of the adhesive coating 26 prevents the label 10 from being removed from the packaging 1 without damaging the packaging 1 and also prevents a removed label 10 from being applied to a different article. The adhesive coating 26 may be a rubber or acrylic based adhesive and may either be a hot melt, emulsion, solvent based or UV hot melt adhesive. As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, other suitable adhesives may be used. The tower surface of the base layer 12 in the region of the tear strip 24 is provided with an adhesive deadening layer 27 (or barrier) over the adhesive coating 26 and therefore the tear strip 24 does not adhere to the packaging 1.

This allows the tear strip 24 to be torn away from the base layer 12 with ease without damaging the actual packaging 1. The spacing of the tear initiation features 20, 22 determines the width of the tear strip 24 which may be less than 10mm, less than 5mm, or less than 3mm, for example.

The upper surface of the base layer 12 is printed red 28 in the region of the tear strip 24. Therefore, the entire length and width of the tear strip 24 is a distinctive and easily recognisable colour. The tear strip 24 could be printed with any suitable colour, or with a covert security ink or mark. In other arrangements, the tear strip 24 could be provided with another security feature such as a hologram. The location of the tear strip 24 can therefore be determined with ease, and it can be readily determined if the tear strip 24 has already been removed. The upper surface of the base layer 12 is provided with a release layer 30 which may be a silicone release coating. The release layer 30 is provided over the printed region 28. However, a strip 32 of the base layer 12 which is at the edge of the base layer 12 in the region of the first base portion 16 is not provided with the release layer 30.

The reseal layer 14 comprises a hinge portion 34, a reseal portion 36 and a finger lift portion 38. The hinge portion 34 is disposed at one end of the reseal layer 14 and is attached to the first base portion 16 of the base layer 12, the reseal portion 36 extends ovel the first base portion 16 and the second base portion 18, and the finger lift portion 38 is disposed at the opposite end of the reseal layer 14 and is positioned over the second base portion 18. The majority of the lower surface of the reseal layer l4is coated with a permanent pressure sensitive adhesive coating 40. Since the edge strip 32 of the first base portion 16 is not coated with the release coating 40, the adhesive 40 on the lower surface of the hinge portion 34 permanently attaches the hinge portion 34to the first base portion 16. The lower surface of the reseal portion 36 in the region of the tear strip 24 is provided with an adhesive deadening layer 37 so that in use the reseal layer 14 does not permanently adhere to the packaging 1. The lower surface 38 of the finger lift portion 38 is provided with an adhesive deadening layer 39 so that a user can easily peel away the reseal layer 14 from the base layer 12.

Although it has been described that various portions of the base layer 12 and reseal layer 14 are provided with an adhesive deadening layer, the purpose of this is to prevent the portions from adhering to the packaging. Therefore, as opposed to being provided with an adhesive deadening layer, the portions could be adhesive free. This would still prevent the portions from adhering to the packaging.

In use, the tamper-evident label 10 is adhered to packaging 1 in such a position that the first base portion 16 is attached to a first packaging portion 2 and the second base portion 18 is attached to a second packaging portion 4. The label 10 therefore overlaps the first and second packaging portions 2, 4. After the label 10 has been applied to the packaging 1, the packaging 1 cannot be opened because the continuous base layer 12 secures the first and second packaging portions 2, 4 together.

With reference to Figure 3, in order to open the packaging 1, the reseal layer 14 is peeled away from the base layer 12 by a user grasping the finger lift portion 38, the lower surface of which is provided with an adhesive deadening layer 39. The release layer 30 provided on the upper surface of the base layer 12 allows the reseal layer 14 to be peeled away with ease. The reseal layer 14 is peeled back so that the reseal portion 36 no longer overlaps the first and second base portions 16, 18. This exposes the tear strip 24 that separates and joins the first and second base portions 16, 18.

The reseal layer 14 cannot be completely detached from the base layer 12 since the hinge portion 34 is permanently adhered to the edge of the first base portion 16.

After the reseal layer 14 has been peeled away to expose the tear strip 24, the tear strip 24 can be torn away from the base layer 12 to separate the first and second base portions 16, 18. In order to pull away the tear strip 24, a user may grasp the edge of the base layer 12 at a position between the first and second tear initiation features 20, 22. As the edge of the base layer 12 is pulled away from the packaging, the base layer starts to tear along two lines in a tear direction that is across the width of the label. The tear lines start from the tear initiation features 20, 22 which are arranged to cause a high stress concentration when the edge of the base layer 12 is pulled. The base layer 12 material is configured or arranged so that it preferentially tears in a tear direction that is across the width of the label. For example, in the present embodiment the base layer 12 is made from MOPP with the polymer chains aligned in a tear direction that is across the width of the base layer 12. Therefore, when the edge of the base layer 12 in between the tear initiation features 20, 22 is pulled away from the packaging, the base layer 12 tears along two tear lines that run across the base layer 12 in the direction of orientation of the polymer chains. The properties of the base layer 12 material ensure that a tear strip 24 can be easily torn away from the base layer 12. In this particular embodiment the tear strip 24 that is completely torn away from the base layer 12 is of a constant width that is defined by the spacing of the tear initiation features.

As can be seen from Figures 4 and 5, once the tear strip 24 has been torn away from the base layer 12, the base layer 12 comprises two discrete parts, namely, the first base portion 16 that is adhered to the first packaging portion 2 and the second base portion 18 that is adhered to the second packaging portion 4. Since the first and second base portions 16, 18 are no longer attached together, the packaging 1 can be opened by moving the first packaging portion 2 relative to the second packaging portion. If the tear strip 24 is printed with a distinctive pattern or colour, it is easy to visually assess whether or not the packaging has been opened. The label 10 therefore provides an important tamper-evident feature.

Referring to Figure 6, after the packaging 1 been closed after first opening by bringing the first and second packaging portions 2, 4 back together, the packaging 1 can be resealed by folding the reseal layer 14 back down over the first and second base portions 16, 18 so that the reseal portion 36 is adhered to both the first base portion 16 and the second base portion 18. Since the reseal portion 36 is indirectly adhered to both the first and second packaging portions 2, 4 the packaging 1 is temporarily sealed.

Although the tamper-evident label 10 is no longer in tact as the tear strip 24 has been removed, it still provides the additional function of being able to reseal the packaging 1 to prevent it from inadvertently opening. When a user needs to open the packaging 1 again, the reseal layer 14 comprising the reseal portion 26 can be easily peeled away from the first and second base portions 16, 18 such that the first and second packaging portions 2,4 can be moved apart. The packaging 1 can then be resealed again. In this particular embodiment, a good reseal is obtained since the reseal layer 14 reseals by adhering to the upper surface of the second base portion 16.

Figure 7 illustrates packaging 100, in the form of a cigarette box, comprising a main box portion 102 for retaining cigarettes and a lid 104 which is hingedly attached to the main box portion 102. The hinged lid 104 can be moved between atleasta closed position in which the box is closed, and an open position in which cigarettes within the main box portion 102 can be accessed. The packaging 100 further comprises the tamper-evident label 10 described above with the first base portion 16 adhered to the lid 104 and the second base portion 18 adhered to the main box portion 102. The tear strip 24 extends across the label and is aligned with the join line between the lid 104 and the main box 102. A user can easily determine that the cigarette box has not yet been opened since the tear strip 24 is still in place. In order to open the cigarette box, the reseal layer 14 is peeled away from the base layer 12 to expose the tear strip 24.

The edge of the tear strip 24 is then grasped and torn away from the base layer 12 50 as to separate the first and second base portions 16, 18 (Figure 8). This allows the lid 104 to be opened in order to provide access to the interior of the main box portion 102 (Figure 9). Once a cigarette has been removed from the main box portion 102, the lid 104 is shut and the reseal layer 14 is folded back over the first and second base portions 16, l8so that it is indirectly attached to the main box 102 and the lid 104. This prevents the cigarette box from opening accidentally. A user can now visually determine that the cigarette box has already been opened because the tear strip 24 is no longer present. However, the cigarette box can be temporarily resealed by the use of the reseal layer 14.

Figure 10 shows a second embodiment of the tamper-evident label 10 which is similar to the first embodiment. However, the base layer 12 is provided with a pull-tab 42 that extends from the edge of the base layer 12. The right-angles between the sides of the pull-tab 42 and the main side of the base layer 12 form first and second tear initiation features 20, 22. When the pull-tab 42 is pulled away from the packaging 1, stress is concentrated at the tear initiation features 20,22 and the base layer 12 tears along two tear lines starting from the tear initiation features 20, 22 across the entire width of the label 10. This separates the first and second base portions 16, 18 and allows the packaging to be opened.

Figure 11 shows a third embodiment of the tamper-evident label 10 which is similar to the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment the reseal layer 14 is smaller than the base layer 12. The larger second base portion 16 provides a larger area for the reseal layer 14 to adhere to. This may be appropriate if the packaging with which the label 10 is to be used is particularly flexible. Also, the tear initiation features 20, 22 are notches as opposed to cuts or right-angles.

Figure 12 shows a fourth embodiment of the tamper-evident label 10 which is similar to the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment there is no reseal layer 14 and therefore no release coating 30 is provided on the upper surface of the base layer 12.

In this embodiment, the label 10 provides a tamper-evident feature but does not allow the packaging to be resealed. This may be suitable in circumstances in which reseal is not necessary.

Figures 13 and 14 shows a single-layer tamper-evident and reseal label 210 that is generally rectangular. The label 210 is adhered to packaging 1 comprising first and second packaging portions 2, 4 that can move relative to one another so as to open the packaging. The tamper-evident label 210 comprises a base layer 212 that is made from a similar material to the base layer 212 of the first embodiment. Specifically, the base layer 212 is made from a film of MOPP with the polymer chains oriented across the label.

The base layer 212 is continuous and comprises a first base portion 216 that is disposed atone end of the label 210 and a second base portion 218 that is disposed at the opposite end of the label 210. The base layer 212 also comprises a reseal portion 236 that extends from the first base portion 216 and a finger lift portion 238 that is provided next to the reseal portion 236. The base layer 212 is also provided with first and second tear initiation features 220, 222 which in this embodiment are in the form of two cuts in the base layer 212. The tear initiation features 220, 222 are positioned between the finger lift portion 238 and second base portion 218. As for the first embodiment, the tear initiation features 220, 222 are provided on the same edge or side of the base layer 212 and are spaced from one another. As for the first embodiment, the tear initiation features 220, 222 allow a tear strip 224 to be torn away from the base layer 212 through its entire thickness and width so as to separate the first and second base portions 216, 218.

The lower surface of the base layer 212 is provided with a permanent pressure sensitive adhesive coating 226 in the region of the first base portion 216, the reseal portion 236 and the second base portion 218. However, the lower surface of the finger lift portion 238 and the tear strip 224 are provided with an adhesive deadening layer 237, 237. This prevents the finger lift and the tear strip 224 from adhering to the packaging. The adhesive used may be similar to the adhesive described for use in the first embodiment. As for the first embodiment, the upper surface of the base layer 212 is printed red 228 in the region of the tear strip 224. The adhesive provided on the lower surface of the reseal portion 236 is overcoated with a screen of release varnish 244. This reduces the adhesive strength of the adhesive 226 and therefore allows the reseal portion 236 to be adhered to and detached from the packaging portions 2, 4.

In use, the tamper-evident label 210 is adhered to the packaging in such a position that the first base portion 216 is attached to a first packaging portion 2 and the second base portion 218 is attached to a second packaging portion 4. The reseal portion 236 extends from the first base portion 216 and overlaps the first and second packaging 2, 4 portions to which it is loosely adhered. The tear strip 224 joins the reseal portion 236 to the second base portion 218 and is offset from the join of the first and second packaging portions 2,4. After the label 210 has been applied to the packaging 1, the packaging 1 cannot be opened because the reseal portion 236 secures the first and second packaging portions 2, 4 together.

With reference to Figures 15 and 16, in order to open the packaging 1, the tear strip 224 can be torn away from the base layer 212 to separate the first base portion 216 and the reseal portion 236 from the second base portion 218. As for the first embodiment, in order to pull away the tear strip 224, a user may grasp the edge of the base layer 12 at a position between the first and second tear initiation features 220, 222. As the edge of the base layer 212 is pulled away from the packaging, the base layer 212 tears along two tear lines in a tear direction that is across the width of the label. Once the tear strip 224 has been torn away from the base layer 212, the base layer 212 comprises two discrete parts, namely, the Iirst base portion 216 and the reseal portion 236, and the second base portion 218. In this embodiment, although the tear strip 224 has been torn away from the base layer 212, the packaging cannot be opened because the reseal portion 236 is attached to both the first packaging portion 2 and the second packaging portion 4.

As shown in Figure 17, in order to allow the packaging to be opened 2,4, a user can grasp the adhesive-free finger lift portion 238 and peel the reseal portion 236 away from both the first and second packaging portions 2, 4. This can be done without damaging the packaging due to the release varnish 244 provided over the adhesive 226. The reseal portion 236 cannot be completely detached from the packaging because it is permanently attached by the first base portion 216 to the first packaging portion 2. After the reseal portion 236 has been peeled away from the packaging, the packaging can be opened by moving the first and second packaging portions 2, 4 relative to one another. Once the packaging has been closed, the reseal portion 236 can be folded down and adhered to both the first packaging portion 2 and the second packaging portion 4. This can prevent the packaging from being inadvertently opened.

Figure 18 illustrates packaging 300, in the form of a pouch for tobacco, comprising a main pouch portion 302 for retaining tobacco and a flap 304 which is attached to the main pouch portion 302. The flap 304 can be moved between at least a closed position in which the pouch is closed, and an open position in which tobacco within the main pouch portion 302 can be accessed. The packaging 300 further comprises the tamper-evident label 210 described above with reference to Figures 13-17, with the first base portion 216 adhered to the flap 304, the second base portion 318 adhered to the main pouch portion 302, and the reseal portion 236 overlapping and loosely adhered to the flap 304 and the main pouch portion 302. The tear strip 224 extends across the label and is offset from the overlap line between the tlap 304 and the main pouch 302.

A user can easily determine that the pouch has not yet been opened since the tear strip 224 is still in place. In order to open the pouch, the edge of the tear strip 224 is grasped and torn away from the base layer 212 so as to separate the first base portion 216 and the reseal portion 236 from the second base portion 218 (Figure 19). The finger lift portion 238 is then grasped and peeled away from the main pouch portion 302. This allows the flap 304 to be opened in order to provide access to the interior of the main pouch portion 302 (Figure 20). Once tobacco has been removed from the main pouch portion 302, the flap 304 is shut and the reseal portion 236 is folded back onto the main pouch 302 in order to reseal the pouch. This prevents the pouch from opening accidentally. A usei can now visually determine that the pouch has already been opened because the tear strip 224 is no longer present. However, the pouch can be temporarily resealed by the use of the reseal portion 236.

Figures 21 and 22 show an alternative embodiment of a tamper-evident label 410 that can be used to seal packaging such as a cylindrical pot or container having a bottom part for containing the product to be packaged, and a lid that can be screwed and unscrewed from the bottom part so as to open and close the packaging.

The label 410 is elongate and comprises a base layer 412 that is made from a directionally oriented polymer such as mono-oriented polypropylene (MOPP). It should be appreciated that the base layer 412 may be manufactured from any of the materials previously described. The base layer 412 comprises a first base portion 416 and a second base portion 418 that are both elongate and substantiatly coextensive with one another. The polymer chains of the directionally oriented polymer are aligned in the longitudinal elongate direction of the label 410. One end of the second base portion 418 is provided with a pull-tab 442 that in this embodiment is substantially circular. The first and second base portions 416, 418 are of substantially the same length and width, with the exception of the pull-tab 442 of the second base portion 418 which has an increased width comparable to the overall width of the label 410. The label base layer 412 is a continuous uniform integrally formed substrate provided with no perforations or weakened tear lines. However, a quarter-circular arc cut 443 is provided between the pull-tab 442 of the second base portion 418 and the tirst base portion 416. The cut 443 extends to a tear initiation feature 420 that is between the first and second base portions 416, 418 and which extends in the longitudinal direction of the label 410. The tear initiation feature 420 is therefore aligned with the polymer chains of the directionally oriented polymer.

As shown in Figure 22, the entire lower surface of the base layer 412 is provided with a pressure sensitive adhesive coating 426. The pressure sensitive adhesive coating 426 extends across the whole width and length of the underside of the base layer 412.

However, a deadening layer 427 is printed over the adhesive coating 426 in the region of the second base portion 418. The deadening layer 427 therefore extends over the width and length of the underside of the second base portion 418 including the pull-tab 442. The deadening layer 427 reduces the adhesive strength of the adhesive coating 426. Therefore, when the label 410 is adhered to packaging, there is a greater adhesive strength between the first base portion 416 and the packaging compared to the adhesive strength between the second base portion 418 and the packaging.

Although it has been described that a uniform adhesive coating 426 is applied to the underside of the base layer 410 and a deadening layer 427 is printed over a portion of the width, it should be appreciated that two different adhesive coatings could be applied to the underside of the base layer 410: a stronger adhesive coating in the region of the first base portion 416, and a weaker adhesive coating in the region of the second base portion 418.

Before the label has been used, the first and second base portions 416, 418 are only separate in a theoretical sense in as much as they are intended to be separated rather than actually being separated. It should be noted that the line 421 extending across the length of the label 410 separating the first and second base portions 416, 418 is imaginary and merely indicates a line along which the base layer 412 can be torn to separate the first and second base portions 416, 418.

Figure 23 shows the type of packaging with which the tamper-evident label 410 can be used in order to provide a tamper-evident seal. As briefly described above, the packaging comprises a cylindrical pot (or a tub or container) 400 having a hollow bottom part 402 for containing a product to be packaged and a lid 404 which is detachably attached to the bottom part 402. In this embodiment the lid 404 can be moved relative to the bottom part 402 by screwing or unscrewing to close or open the pot. However, in other embodiments the lid 404 may be a snap-fit lid. The pot 400 may contain a tobacco product such as snus, or may contain a cosmetic product such as a cream. Of course, the pot 400 may contain any other suitable product.

With reference to Figure 24, in use, the label 410 is applied to the cylindrical outer surface of the pot 400 with the longitudinal extent of the label extending around the circumference of the pot 400. The width of the label 410 overlaps the join between the bottom part 402 and the lid 404 with the first base portion 416 adhered to the bottom pad 402 and the second base portion 418 adhered to the lid 404. It should be appreciated that the base portions 416, 418 could be adhered the other way round.

Due to the deadening layer 427, the adhesive strength between the first base portion 416 and the bottom part 402 is greater than the adhesive strength between the second base portion 418 and the lid 404. Since the width of the label 410 overlaps the bottom part 402 and the lid 404, it is not possible to open the pot 400 without removing or damaging the label 410. The label 410 therefore provides a tamper-evident feature.

When it is desired to access the contents of the pot 400, the pull-tab 442 of the second base portion 412 is lifted and pulled away from the pot 400. This results in a stress concentration in the base layer 410 in the region of the tear initiation feature 420 which causes the base layer 410 to start to tear along a tear line 421 (Figure 21) between the first and second base portions 416, 418. The tear line 421 or direction is an elongate line aligned with the longitudinal direction of the label 410 and aligned with the polymer chains of the directionally oriented polymer. As shown in Figure 25, as the pull-tab 422 is progressively pulled away from the tub 400, the second base portion 418 peels away from the lid 404 and starts to separate from the first base portion 416 which remains adhered to the bottom part 402. The lower adhesive strength between the second base portion 418 and the lid 404, compared to the adhesive strength between the first base portion 416 and the bottom part 402, ensures that the base layer 412 separates with the second base portion 418 being peeled away from the lid 404 and the first base portion 416 remaining adhered to the boftom part 402. The base layer 410 tears along its entire length along a substantially straight line due to the oriented nature of the polymer chains. This means that it is not necessary to provide any weakened lines or perforations in the base layer 410 to ensure that it tears correctly.

Referring now to Figure 26, continuously pulling of the pull-tab 442 of the second base portion 418 results in complete separation of the first and second base portions 416, 418 with the second base portion 418 being completed removed from the pot 400 and the first base portion 416 remaining adhered to the bottom part 402. Since the first base portion 416 is only adhered to the bottom part 402 (and not the lid 404), once the second base portion 418 has been separated and removed, the label 410 no longer overlaps the bottom part 402 and lid 404. This allows the lid 404 to be removed from the bottom part 402 so as to access the contents of the pot 400. In order to reseal the pot 400, the lid 404 can be reattached to the bottom part 402.

After the first and second base portions 416, 418 have been separated, the integrity of the label is permanently spoiled and it is not possible to return it to its original condition.

It is therefore possible for the consumer to immediately determine whether or not the pot 400 has previously been opened.

Although it has not been described, it is possible to provide the label 410 with first and second tear initiation features which allow an elongate tear strip to be torn away from the base layer 410 to separate the first and second base portions 416, 418. Further, the label 410 could be used with other packaging such as boxes or pouches.

In any of the above described embodiments, the upper or lower surface of the base layer 12, 212, 412 and/or the upper or lower surface of the reseal layer 14 may be printed. The surfaces may be printed with a commercial graphic or with a security print or ink. In some embodiments, the underside of the tear strip 24, 224 may be printed with a promotional code or the like.

The labels 10, 210, 410 may be manufactured by any appropriate method and may be provided as a wound reel of labels comprising a plurality or series of discrete labels releasabty adhered to a wound backing sheet. The labels may either be applied to packaging by hand or machine. Alternatively, the labels 10, 210, 410 may be cut from a continuous tape which may either be self-would or provided with a backing sheet.

The tamper-evident labels described herein provide a number of benefits to both the product and brand owner, and the end consumer. The label provides a tamper-evident feature as it is not possible to open the packaging without separating the first and second base portions. If a tear strip is used, and the tear strip is not present, it can be easily determined visually that the packaging has already been opened. This makes it easy to determine if a product might have been adulterated or interfered with. Products are very occasionally adulterated by opening the packaging, interfering with the product (for example by adding a hazardous component), and closing the packaging again.

If the tear strip is printed with a security feature such as a covert security ink, then it may be possible to tell that the tear strip has been tampered with or replaced with a non-authentic tear strip. If a reseal portion is used, the label allows the consumer to reseal the packaging after initial opening. This may help to maintain the freshness of the product within the packaging and may also help to prevent the product from inadvertently falling out of the packaging.

The tear strip is particularly easy to remove, and the first and second base portions can be separated easily, which allows the packaging to be opened with ease. If the tear strip is part of, or integral with, the base layer, this may reduce the overall cost of the label as it is not necessary to provide a separate tear strip. The use of a directionally oriented polymer allows the tear strip to be integrally part of the base layer. This reduces to overall cost and manufacturing complexity of enabling a tear strip to be removed. Only first and second tear initiation features need to be formed to facilitate the removal of a tear strip. In some embodiments only a single tear initiation is required which allows the first and second base portions to be separated. This may be considered an improvement over perforations which may result in a fragile tear strip that can be easily damaged.

Claims (1)

1. <claim-text>CLAIMS: 1. A tamper-evident label for sealing packaging having first and second packaging portions that can be moved relative to one another to open the packaging, the tamper-evident label comprising: a base layer having a first base portion arranged to be adhered to the first packaging portion, and a second base portion arranged to be adhered to the second packaging portion and including a pull-tab, wherein the adhesive strength of the first base portion is greater than the adhesive strength of the second base portion, the base layer comprising a tear initiation feature arranged so that in use the second base portion can be torn away from the first base portion along a tear direction by pulling the pull-tab so as to separate the first and second base portions and detach the second base portion from the second packaging portion, thereby allowing the packaging to be opened.</claim-text> <claim-text>2. A tamper-evident label according to claim 1, wherein the label is elongate in the same direction as the tear direction.</claim-text> <claim-text>3. A tamper-evident label according to claim 2, wherein the first and second base portions are substantially coextensive in the longitudinal direction and are arranged to be separated along a longitudinal line.</claim-text> <claim-text>4. A tamper-evident label according to any preceding claim, wherein the width of the pull-tab is greater than the width of the second base portion.</claim-text> <claim-text>5. A tamper-evident label according to any preceding claim, wherein the width of the pull-tab is substantially the same as the width of the base layer.</claim-text> <claim-text>6. A tamper-evident label according to any preceding claim, wherein the base layer comprises a material that is arranged to preferentially tear in the tear direction.</claim-text> <claim-text>7. A tamper-evident label according to any preceding claim, wherein the base layer comprises a directionally oriented polymer.</claim-text> <claim-text>8. A tamper-evident label according to any preceding claim, wherein the base layer comprises a mono oriented polymer, such as mono oriented polypropylene.</claim-text> <claim-text>9. A tamper-evident label according to any preceding claim, wherein the tear initiation feature is a cut or notch in the base layer adjacent to the pull-tab.</claim-text> <claim-text>10. A tamper-evident label according to any preceding claim, wherein at least part of the lower side of the base layer is provided with an adhesive such that the first and second base portions can be adhered to the first and second packaging portions respectively.</claim-text> <claim-text>11. A tamper-evident label according to claim 10, wherein at least a part of the adhesive in the region of the second base portion is overcoated with a deadening layer or screen so as to reduce its adhesive strength.</claim-text> <claim-text>12. A tamper-evident label according to any preceding claim, wherein the upper side and/or the lower side of the base layer is at least partially printed.</claim-text> <claim-text>13. A wound reel of labels comprising a wound backing sheet with a plurality of labels, each in accordance with any preceding claim, releasably adhered to the backing sheet.</claim-text> <claim-text>14. Packaging for at least one article or substance comprising: first and second packaging portions that can be moved relative to one another so as to open the packaging to provide access to the at least one article or substance; and a tamper-evident label in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the first base portion is adhered to the first packaging portion and wherein the second base portion is adhered to the second packaging portion so as to seal the packaging and prevent the packaging from being opened without separating the first and second base portions by tearing the second base portion away from the first base portion and detaching the second base portion from the second packaging portion; wherein the adhesive strength between the first base portion and the first packaging portion is greater than the adhesive strength between the second base portion and the second packaging portion.</claim-text> <claim-text>15. Packaging according to claim 14, wherein the packaging is a pot, tub or container and wherein one of the packaging portions is a bottom part for retaining the at least one article or substance and wherein the other packaging portion is a lid detachably attached to the bottom part.</claim-text> <claim-text>16. A tamper-evident label or packaging substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.</claim-text>