FIDDLY lids and hard-to-open packets can prove frustrating at the best of times, let alone when you're in hospital. But not any more.
Food producer SPC has tackled the problem by introducing a new easy-open cup range.
The SPC ProVital was developed in collaboration with NSW Health to combat poor patient nutrition in hospitals.
Based on guidelines from the health department and Arthritis Australia, the design features textured and lengthened pull tabs for easier grip, clear instructions for opening, decagon shape for easier grip, and optimised seal to reduce force.
The design has since received wide praise, including top recognition in the food category of the WorldStar Packaging Organisation Awards.
"The issue of packaging accessibility is becoming more and more prominent in our society as the population ages," said SPC's category marketing manager for ProVital Chris Deed.
"For us, having our range receive the highest possible accessibility rating from Arthritis Australia of +8, with 95 per cent of the population reporting an easy-to-open product is one thing - but to be recognised by the WPO with an award of this stature is something that makes the journey so worthwhile."
HealthShare NSW executive director of clinical support services Carmen Rechbauer also praised the new design.
"It is essential that packaging of food served in hospital is easier for patients to open in order to support their nutrition outcomes," Ms Rechbauer said.
"Easy-open packaging not only contributes to improved nutrition in hospitals, but it also allows our most vulnerable patients to retain their independence and dignity by easily accessing their own food."
SPC ProVital products are available in hospitals and aged care facilities, with further plans for expansion.
