Passage 1: The Value of Packaging and Labeling As a key marketing tool, packaging is expected by companies to be a “spokesperson” for their products. It is because that an appealing package will create a distinctive look for the products to stand out in a crowd and increase sales. Usually, packaging is seen as a container. Many products must be contained to handle, such as drinking, milk, wine, salt, flour etc. These liquid and free flowing solids are often packaged so that they can be distributed to the markets and taken home by the consumers. Besides, some large and heavy goods such as refrigerators and washing machines are packaged so that they can be handled by workers in the workshop or during transit. The main function of packaging is to protect what is inside. Many products are vulnerable to environmental conditions. For example, biscuits must be protected against the loss of moisture. Some products are sensitive to oxygen, some are sensitive to temperature, some can be damaged by crushing, and some can be ruined by shock and vibration. Then the purpose of packages is to protect the goods in sound condition. Packaging also has its service function. The various items of information printed on packaging provide the consumer with details about the contents and the use of a particular product. Dosage information on medicines is a case in point. The design of package usually intends to attract the potential purchaser’s attention and has a positive impact on the purchasing decision so as to promote the sales. Labelling may be regarded as part of packaging because packaging decision making also involves the consideration of the labeling requirements. Sanitary obligations are very important aspect of labeling. Many countries have laid down labeling requirements in respect of a number of commodities. According to the regulations in many countries, labeling of food items should disclose information about a number of aspects like date of manufacturing, expiry date or optimum storage period for goods which do not have an indefinite storage period, composition, storage conditions, if necessary, method of use, etc. Many countries insist that labeling should be done in the popular languages of the country. This should preferably be done even in the absence of such a statutory requirement. Besides satisfying the statutory and social requirements, labeling should help to promote sales. For example, in self-service stores labeling should impart, to the extent desirable and feasible, the services of a salesman to inform and attract the customers. Task 1: After the passage, you will find 5 questions. For each question there are 4 choices marked A, B, C and D. You should make the correct choice.