Abstract: A labeling apparatus for continuously labeling containers with printed labels from a continuous roll of backing material includes a continuous release liner web of backing material in roll form. The continuous release liner web of backing material has a plurality of labels adhered thereon at spaced-apart label regions using a pressure sensitive adhesive. The continuous release liner web of backing material is configured to allow the labels to be removed therefrom without damaging the labels. A feeding mechanism is configured to continuously dispense the continuous release liner web of backing material with the labels adhered thereon. A peel plate includes a peeling edge over which the continuous release liner web of backing material is drawn by the feeding mechanism. The edge of the peel plate has a shape that promotes a leading edge of the labels to loosen from the continuous release liner web of backing material as the corresponding label region is drawn over the peeling edge.

Abstract: A method for use in determining product counterfeiting and diversion is provided. The method includes locating an overlay on a label associated with a product. The overlay delineates areas of the label, each area having an identifier associated therewith. Presence of a taggant is detected within one or more of the areas using a reader. The taggant is hidden from sight and provides an indication of its presence that is detectable by the reader.

Abstract: A container labeling system includes a vertical feed system. The vertical feed system includes a continuous roll of non-seamed shrink film material, where the non-seamed shrink film material shrinks in a cross-machine direction. A severing device is used to sever the non-seamed shrink film material into discrete lengths of non-seamed shrink material. A vertical feed mechanism transfers the discrete lengths of non-seamed shrink material toward a transport mechanism. A labeling apparatus receives the discrete lengths of non-seamed shrink material from the transport mechanism. The labeling apparatus is configured to form a tube from the discrete length of non-seamed shrink material and to apply the tube to a container for a shrinking operation.