Packaging and labelling are often the first things we notice when purchasing a new product. In order to protect products from contamination or damage, many products require proper packaging. Labels on the other hand include all basic information about the product that a sensible customer would want to know before making a purchase. The labelling of a product includes brand names, tag lines, designs, symbols, and images.
Differences in definition
Packaging refers to the various activities carried out to design and develop a suitable package for a product, including containers, wrappers, boxes, tubes, plastic bottles, tetra packs, and cans. It is imperative that the packaging is properly and solidly done in order to protect the product. Storage, transportation, and promotional activities can cause contamination, leakage, evaporation, spoilage, and damage.
In contrast, labels provide all the information about the product and its manufacturer. The label is typically included in the product package, but it can also be printed directly on the product if necessary.
Differences in purpose
As a result of product labels, manufacturers can communicate product details to their customers, who can then use this information to compare similar products and then decide which one is best for them. Labelling, for example, provides information about the product inside the package (i.e., the actual product plus accessories, etc. ), its features, price, name of the manufacturer, production date, expiration date, weight, instructions for use, and suggestions about how to store or dispose of the product. Based on all of this information, the customer can determine whether or not the product inside the package will meet their needs.
Depending on the jurisdiction in which the product is sold, the label must also meet certain legal requirements. Companies and manufacturers are required by many countries to present certain information on their product labels. It is the responsibility of manufacturers and companies to adhere to all the labelling requirements imposed by their regulatory authorities. In most countries, the labelling of food products should state a serving’s fat, protein, carbohydrate, sugar and calorie content. Additionally, they must specify whether a product contains any ingredients some people may be allergic to, such as peanuts, soybeans, lactose, etc.
The packaging of a product encompasses more than just a container; it includes every aspect of a complete product package that identifies both the product and the manufacturer. Package design refers to the overall look, feel, and presentation of the product in the marketplace. By creating brand identity and awareness, it functions as a means of advertising and promotion. Taking a shampoo bottle as an example, packaging refers to the materials used to make and shape the bottle, its colour and the placement of its labelling.
Packaging is an integral part of companies’ overall marketing efforts because attractive packaging communicates a positive image of the product inside, wins customers’ trust, and can positively affect their purchase decisions.
Ultimately, the companies focus on creating attractive and functional packaging should be met with informative and compliant labels, which can be added to packages using new tech labelling machines.