Merck launches innovative sacks for pharma raw materials

An innovative packaging system that offers improved safety for pharmaceutical production has been developed by the Life Science Products Division of Merck KgaA, of Germany.

The sack-within-a-sack is made from PE and is very stable, providing optimal safety during transport and storage. A simple perforation enables the two sacks to be separated, leaving a clean, uncontaminated surface once the outer sack is removed.

The problem with previous conventional sacks is that contamination adhering to the sacks could be unintentionally carried into clean production areas. The stable internal and external sacks effectively preventthe transfer of such contamination. The system was specially developed for use in clean rooms and safety is significantly increased when handling pharmaceutical substances.

Furthermore, the internal sack is inscribed with all relevant product data, which avoids mix-ups and tedious and time-consuming refilling processes. This in turn is a clear cost benefit for the customer. Data sheets from Merck provide detailed information on which products and packs will be available.

'In markets that are becoming increasingly competitive, service is going to be an important decision criterion for our customers. In this aspect we are trying to gain an advantage on our competitors and are investing heavily,' said Horst Becker, product manager of the Life Science Products Division. 'The development of the double PE-sack and the refitting of our filling plant alone have cost some €1.6m.'