Shrink bands

Shrink bands are thin packaging strips that protect products from tampering. Bands are applied with heat or water depending on the style. PVC bands are bound with heat and cellulosic bands use water.

Shrink bands serve two purposes in the marketplace. Tamper evident shrink bands indicate if a product has been altered during fabrication, distribution or sale. Tamper resistant shrink bands make products difficult to open. This feature limits access to unintended audiences. Medicines and some retail products use shrink bands for both reasons.

The Tylenol scare in 1982 led to a greater adoption of shrink bands to combat tampering and protect consumers.