COMPAMED 2021: Discussing the latest challenges for medical packaging

Key challenges for medical device packaging

Business continuity, supply chain security, safety, usability and sustainability are all pressing matters for medical device companies this year.

Of course the “traditional” packaging challenges faced by medical devices manufacturers (e.g. pack integrity, medical device sterility, transit resistance and shelf-life) are still part of the conversation. Those needs haven't gone away, and the list of requirements has only grown.

Sustainability is increasingly a focus and is likely to become the top challenge for medical packaging soon. The need to balance sustainability with performance requirements specific to medical packaging was a persistent theme during our conversations.

Supply chain concerns, exacerbated by the ongoing COVID pandemic, led to questions on maintaining supply chain security, minimizing disruptions, and mitigating potential problems.

Through these interactions, we collected valuable feedback that will prepare our teams to respond to customers' current and emerging challenges. These insights will guide our R&D pipeline, future innovation and service models.

Packaging innovations on show

One of Amcor new innovations on show was our Dessiflex® packaging technology for diagnostics and moisture sensitive devices. Dessiflex® technology provides a fully integrated, user-friendly packaging solution that enhances the protection of moisture sensitive products. Desiccant is incorporated into the sealant layer of our Dessiflex laminates to extend shelf life and eliminate the need for additional moisture scavengers. The material is available as pre-made pouches or rollstock and enables our small and large customers to continue scaling up their production of moisture sensitive devices.

We also presented our Dual Chamber Pouch, a breakthrough technology that simplifies packing and aseptic opening for sensitive drug and device combinations. One chamber of the pouch is peelable and houses the device, and the other chamber houses a moisture scavenger. A breathable membrane between the two chambers allows the dessicant to maintain a controlled environment while ensuring that there is no risk of direct contact between the desiccant and the device.

Let's connect

Missed the show? You can reach out to one of our packaging experts and take an appointment to discuss your medical packaging challenges with us.

We look forward to seeing you at our next event in Spring 2022 where we'll focus on medical packaging and sustainability. In the mean-time stay up to date on the latest in healthare packaging: Sign up to receive regular information, invitations to webinars about sustainability, regulations and other current packaging topics.