Press Release
Smart Holograms Announces a Secure, Interactive Sensor to Let Consumers Authenticate Genuine Products before Consumption or Application
10 February 2010
Today, Smart Holograms Limited, a Cambridge, UK-Based Technology Company announced the commercial availability of its revolutionary technology, Verif-EYE™, a bio-optical, interactive visual sensor that allows consumers to ‘self validate’ their purchases prior to consumption or use in order to ensure the product is genuine and tamper-free. This technology has a wide application in consumer products including subscription and over the counter (OTC) pharmaceuticals, food and personal care products which continue to be subject to counterfeiting and tampering at an alarming rate. Ted Wlazlowksi, Managing Director of Smart Holograms stated, “Although significant progress has been made in packaging improvements of consumer products including the addition of shrink sleeves, break seals and foil cap covers, there is still no method or technique available for the consumer to confirm authenticity and safety because previous packaging improvements are easily copied. Our introduction of the new Verif-EYE™ visual sensor gives consumers the long overdue ability to make sure products are legitimate and safe prior to consumption or use. We believe that one day in the near future, Verif-EYE™ will change the buying habits of consumers across the globe.”
Verif-EYE™ is a bio-optical sensor that shows a visual holographic image and color that will transform into a different image and color based upon detection of human breath or even a drop of water depending on how the sensor is programmed. Holographic images or messages can be unique to each product, manufacturer or geographic area of distribution. John Dargan, Chief Operating Officer for Smart Holograms added, “This technology will be virtually impossible to copy in volume because it requires too many proprietary materials, processes and equipment that are not commercially available and are impossible to acquire without significant capital investment and years of testing. The technology is also covered by a very large patent portfolio.
”Unfortunately, successfully counterfeiting high margin consumer products is very profitable and existing, dated technology is ultimately copied or compromised by technologically advanced criminal organizations. Whether it is taggants, specialized inks, dyes, bar codes or standard holograms, these tend to be only detectable by trained personnel in the field often using specialized and expensive devices which are not available to the consumer” said Wlazlowski. “There is a lack of standardization due to the technology spin cycles and it is virtually impossible to engage the consumer in the verification process. Verif-EYE™ changes all of that” he added.
With increased terrorist activity consumer goods are an obvious area of concern, especially lotions, cosmetics and ingestible products such as medicines, foods and liquids. Consumers purchase an item, take it home and the only thing to assure them that no tampering has occurred is a standard foil, plastic seal or protective cap that may or may not be legitimately applied by the manufacturer. “The bottom line is that right now the consumer just rolls the dice that their baby formula, medicines, cosmetics and other food and drink will be safe. We believe Verif-EYE™ gives that power back to the consumer to confirm that the products they are using are authentic and safely packaged.” Wlazlowski confirmed.
About Smart Holograms
Smart Holograms is the world’s leading technology company in the development and applications for optically programmable holographic sensors and related materials. Based in Cambridge, UK, the company develops solutions for customers working in the consumer protection, brand & product protection and medical solutions industries worldwide. It enjoys an ongoing relationship with Cambridge University’s Institute of Biotechnology in other technology co-operation.
For further information, contact:
Julie Lakin
Marketing & Administration Manager
Smart Holograms
Tel:
+44 1223 393 400
Email:
info@smartholograms.com
Website: http://www.smartholograms.com