Packaging Logos/ Symbols/ Labels

Logos or Symbols indicated on the packages communicate the nature of the product and whether it requires special handling and the kind of handling required. Many types of symbols for package labelling are nationally and internationally standardized. On the other hand, Labels like Bar codes, Universal Product Codes, and RFID labels are used for automated information management. In addition, shipments of hazardous materials or dangerous goods have special information and symbols as required by UN, country, and specific carrier requirements. Two examples are below:

With transport packages, standardised symbols are also used to aid in handling. Examples of such symbols are:

While dealing with Dangerous Goods, the Hazardous symbol is a requirement to be on the package. The Hazardous symbol communicate the characteristics of the product and how to handle the product. At the same time warn people to keep out from the product.

Some other types of symbols and logos indicate the whether the item is recyclable, or show the recycled material content.

For Metals

Most beverage and food cans made from steel and aluminium can be recycled with logos like:

For Cupboard

The below symbol, called the Mobius loop, is most commonly found on cardboard packaging and denotes that the item is recyclable.

For Glass
Whilst most glass containers are recyclable, this symbol reminds consumers to recycle glass jars and bottles.

For Plastics
There are a wide range of plastics used in packaging. To make sorting and thus recycling easier, the American Society of Plastics Industry developed a standard marking code to help consumers identify and sort the main types of plastic. These types and their most common uses are shown below:

Other symbols
Another symbol often appearing on packaging is the German 'Green Dot'. This does not have any environmental significance, meaning only that the manufacturer has paid a fee towards the packaging recovery system in Germany.