The future of protecting life science products

In the life sciences industry packaging plays a crucial role in protecting product integrity, ensuring safety, and enabling traceability throughout the supply chain. Packaging must be validated, durable and perform well, being able to withstand the rough conditions of transport while maintaining the correct temperature range. Hear from our experts Will Staddon and Doug Ross from Peli Biothermal, and Andrew Moss and Sarah Pentney from Biocair on why packaging must adapt to meet changing compliance, product demands and patient needs in the life science industry.

Addressing Challenges in the Industry

There are many different packaging solutions available, but this brings additional complexities. A specific type of packaging may not be available globally, so packaging solutions may need to be provided by different vendors which can have different pre-conditioning methods. And let’s not forget the sheer volume of shipments happening today. With globalised supply chains and increasing demand for specialist logistics, parcel carriers are under pressure. Logistics experts and cold chain providers – like Peli BioThermal and Biocair – are working together to create solutions that maintain temperature requirements and reduce potential for hazards.

Maintaining Compliance

Packaging and thermal transportation regulations are incredibly strict to ensure maintenance of product integrity. Regulations vary globally, and non-compliance can lead to products being recalled, fines and risk to patients. Every package must prove that it maintains temperature stability, passes drop tests and protects the payload from damage. Additionally, packaging must be qualified and have a proven performance against industry standard protocols, such as ISTA7D. For shipments being transported via aircraft, packaging must comply with IATA requirements.

Developing Sustainable Solutions

With many companies committing to net-zero goals, shipping materials sustainably is becoming a big focus so many are shifting to reusable packaging. A fully reusable system requires a process to be in place for collecting and returning packaging. This process brings multiple logistical challenges with it, such as managing inventory numbers, costs and customs.

Recent Innovations in the Packaging Industry

Smart packaging is becoming more sophisticated as IoT technology now enables real-time shipment tracking, temperature monitoring, and seamless return logistics. New sustainable materials are also emerging, offering more environmentally friendly protection for payloads.

Third party logistics and packaging providers are developing new ways to make cold chain packaging lighter. This can be done by using configurable thermal insulation chambers which let companies tailor thermal protection, avoiding extra weight and bulk.

Every innovation developed in cold chain packaging is driven by the purpose to ensure that patients receive critical products safely, reliably, and on time. When cold chain solutions are more durable and reliable, life-saving treatments arrive in optimal condition. Smarter tracking, advanced insulation, and reusable packaging don’t just enhance supply chains, they directly impact patient care.

About the Authors

Will Staddon, Global Head of Bulk Solutions, Peli Biothermal

Will joined Peli BioThermal in 2018 and is responsible for heading the Cr?do on Demand product offering and overseeing all bulk solution offerings and strategy.

Doug Ross, President and COO, Peli BioThermal

Doug Ross is the President and Chief Operating Officer at Peli BioThermal and has over 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Before joining Peli BioThermal, Ross served as SVP of Pharma 3PL Logistics at EVERSANA.

Andrew Moss, Customer Solutions & Implementation Manager, Biocair

Andrew has worked in the specialist logistics industry for over 20 years and is instrumental in establishing workable solutions for complex logistical requests.

Sarah Pentney, Head of Quality and Compliance, Biocair

Sarah joined Biocair in 2002 and is responsible for providing quality assurance to ensure shipments get delivered safely and efficiently.

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