Graphic Packaging International’s new CleanClose paperboard carton for laundry detergent pods has officially been certified child-resistant under US regulation 16 CFR 1700.20. The packaging, developed in collaboration with Radienz Living, is designed to replace plastic formats while maintaining safety and sustainability.
The carton features the company’s patent-pending ChildBlock closure, which is intended to be simple for adults to open but difficult for children. A distinct “click” sound confirms the pack is securely closed. It holds up to 160 pods and is delivered flat for filling, which helps improve warehouse and transport efficiency. According to Graphic Packaging, the number of filled packs per pallet is at least 10 per cent higher than plastic pouches.
Made with 50 per cent recycled fibre content, the pack is kerbside recyclable in paper waste streams and has been pre-qualified as Widely Recyclable under the How2Recycle programme. It’s also built to withstand 400 pounds of top-load compression, supporting self-palletisation for club store supply chains.
Chuck Tarlton, new business development director at Graphic Packaging, said, “Securing certification under 16 CFR 1700.20 is a milestone for Graphic Packaging. Requirements for child resistance pushed our team to explore countless design variables. We had to meet stringent child safety requirements while also delivering cost effectiveness, recyclability, supply chain and manufacturing efficiency, and an outstanding consumer experience.”
Tom McLenithan, vice president of research and development at Radienz Living, added: “We are proud to have partnered with Graphic Packaging in the creation of a packaging solution made from paperboard that provides safety for children by meeting strict child resistance requirements. At the same time, it delivers reliability, efficiency, and cost optimisation across the supply chain.”
