Page 39 - Packaging News magazine Jul-Aug 2021

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I believe that sustainability and automation will become more prevalent in cannabis packaging in the future.” — Scott Martin, CEO N2 Packaging.
NEW PACKAGING ENTRANT
US Cannabis packaging company, N2 Packaging has recently broken into the Australian market. CEO Scott Martin says, “After years focusing our footprint on the US and Canada, we recently did out first installation in Australia.” Although reluctant to disclose his customer’s name, he goes on to say, “The Australian company is using a small system to start and will be installing the full line after they complete their testing.”
The design, a food-grade tin can with a ring pull top and separate child-resistant (CR) cover, is flushed with nitrogen before it is hermetically sealed. This patented process safeguards product aroma and integrity.
“I’ve always believed that our packaging would be a solution in the cannabis industry,” says Martin. “Eliminating shelf-life concerns is the obvious benefit, but I believe that recyclability, and not just the preserva- tion of the product, sets us apart from other packaging options.” Indeed, N2 has gone on to develop more sustain- able options including a biodegradable CR cover.
Sustainability is a strong focal point for Martin, “I believe that sustainability and automation will become more prevalent in cannabis packaging in the future, we are focusing on expanding our offerings in these areas.”
The N2 system provides advanced packaging practices with health and safety standards comparable to those found in the food and beverage industry. The patented process eliminates moisture and removes oxygen, thereby reducing growth of mould, micro-organisms and harmful bacteria; a process that is old news in the food industry but a first in a newly legalised industry finding its place in the economy.
Irrespective of personal views, the number of places where the marijuana industry is now a legitimate way to earn a living is growing. No longer carried out under cover of darkness or from the back of a car, a baggy is not an acceptable form of packaging. Not for the authorities regu- lating the industry nor for the new breed of consumer who has a higher expectation of quality and professionalism.
While Australia may be a relatively young player in this controversial market, if Health Minister Greg Hunt is right, we will not be left behind. It is time for the Australian packaging industry to ensure the same. ■
(This article is not an endorsement of any products men- tioned herein, rather, it acknowledges an expanding new market and an avenue for packaging innovation.)