In this ongoing series of case study articles, the folks at Weatherchem explore some of the applications developed for its various closures thus far.  This installment features Viactiv calcium supplements and the various benefits Weatherchem was able to provide.

Customer: Leiner Health
End user: McNeil Nutritionals
Product: Viactiv
Market: Nutraceuticals

McNeil Nutritionals LLC created a calcium supplement that was easier for women to swallow because of its improved taste and smooth coating. To top off the packaging, McNeil went with the easy and convenient NutraFlapper® cap, developed by Weatherchem. Using the NutraFlapper reinforces the brand attributes that Viactiv wants to project to consumers.

This product was chosen because:

• Consumers were satisfied with the controlled dispensing
• The cutting edge look of the closure added value to the packaging presentation and functionality
• The closure improved shelf impact
• NutraFlapper caps provided a quick solution to companies previously using CT caps 

Market factors:

As people demand better packaging for their products, and refuse to buy products in sub-standard containers, packaging designers need to respond with a variety of functions in order to be considered appropriate. These include tamper-proof and/or tamper evident, child-resistant, senior-friendly, attractive, easy-to-use and (from a B2B perspective) inexpensive. All of these requirements can affect the market viability of a product, without mentioning that the packaging needs to serve its primary purpose, which is to keep the product safe. Storage and freshness are critical factors.

As people move toward healthier lifestyle choices, product differentiation and ease of use become key factors in purchasing, and the NutraFlapper provides both.

Results of the implementation:

• Improved presence in the VMS (vitamins/minerals/supplements) market
• More favourable response from consumers post-purchase
• Increased brand awareness thansk to the container/closure combination