Labelling

Chesapeake, the Virginia-based packaging group, has launched an anti-counterfeiting device that enables consumers to verify that products are genuine and brand owners to track products through the supply chain.

Pro-tex gives each product a unique alphanumeric character identification code, which can be checked, using a standard mobile phone text message, against a secure database controlled by Chesapeake.

Pro-tex can be applied directly to the packaging of all consumer products, including cartons, labels, leaflets and plastic containers, using "security linked" inkjet online or digital printing technology.

"We do not favour over-labelling as the label could potentially be removed and used illegitimately," said a spokesman.

Chesapeake said the system was suitable for applications where goods are prone to counterfeiting, such as high-value luxury items, healthcare products, alcoholic drinks and cosmetics.

A consumer registering the code for the first time would receive confirmation of its authenticity by a return text message.

The system is multilingual and can adjust the language and message content of the reply according to the inbound message received.

Chesapeake head of R&D, Carol Hammond, said Pro-tex could also be used by brand owners as a "valuable marketing tool" to alert consumers via SMS text message to product changes, or to pass on other relevant information