Adhesive Challenges for 21st Century Packaging

In ancient times, precious goods were kept in clay jars to protect them from the ravages of humidity and rot. Centuries later, barrels were invented to store water, grain and salted meats. By the Renaissance, glass packaging became available, which further improved shelf life and presentation. The advent of the tin can--with lead-soldered seams, no less--enabled Napoleon's armies to conquer most of Europe. That same packaging enabled American settlers to tame the Midwest and turn it into a food empire, sending packaged food to much of the world. Packaging has made the U.S. the most fed (some would say overfed) population on earth. Here, food insecurity is largely an issue of getting food to those in need based on economic or distribution issues. In underdeveloped countries, food insecurity results more from rot, spoilage or vermin infestation due to poor or nonexistent food packaging.