Intelligent packaging and applications in the food industry

Objective: Food packaging fulfills basic functions such as protection of quality, and protection from environmental, physical, and microbiological factors. Recently, with the changing in consumer preferences and expectations, the role of packaging has gone beyond its basic function. Innovations in food packaging systems and smart packaging solutions help bring safer and higher-quality food products to the market. In addition, new developments have enabled the development of intelligent (smart) packaging systems with the development of interactive packaging systems. These systems act as quality indicators to ensure food safety and are generally classified as direct (humidity, time-temperature, freshness, and biosensor) or passive (traceability and monitoring) indicators. Conclusion: Current developments in smart packaging systems and commercial applications are evaluated and smart packaging systems are integrated with food applications about the shelf life of packaged foods, it will be possible for consumers to be informed about the quality of foodstuffs and to further reduce food waste.