Tamper-proof packaging

You might remember this: In September 1982, seven people—whose ages ranged from 12 to 35—died after consuming Extra-Strength Tylenol capsules laced with potassium cyanide. Subsequently, several more people died because of copycat crimes. Predictably, these events led to nationwide panic and prompted significant changes in product safety regulations.

The incident sparked a massive recall of over 31 million bottles of Tylenol and a halt in production by Johnson & Johnson, the manufacturer. The Tylenol murders inspired the pharmaceutical, food, and consumer product industries to develop tamper-resistant packaging, such as induction seals (photo).

 Moreover, product tampering was made a federal crime, and the FDA established guidelines for tamper-resistant packaging of over-the-counter medications. The changes in packaging together with the new legislation supposedly made pharmaceuticals and food safer for consumers.

I don’t know about you, but I’d rather take my chances at being poisoned than having daily struggles opening things. Sometimes I use my teeth. Sometimes a knife or other tools—plenty of opportunity for injury. Maybe with the new anti-regulatory fervor in Washington something can be done!

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