Boosting Food System Sustainability through Intelligent Packaging: Application of Biodegradable Freshness Indicators

Abstract

World hunger is getting worse, while one-third of foods produced around the globe is wasted and never consumed. It is vital in reducing food waste to promote the sustainability of agri-food systems. Intelligent packaging embedded with freshness indicators can monitor food freshness in a real-time manner and be deployed for cutting food waste produced due to predetermined expiration date and informing consumers of food safety. Biodegradable halochromic films have been increasingly utilized as freshness indicators because of their low environmental impact. In this review, recent advances in biodegradable halochromic indicators for intelligent packaging are reported. The pH-responsive behaviors of natural pigments, the development of biodegradable solid supports for freshness indicators, the colorimetric response of freshness indicators to food products and simulated models, and future challenges in this field are discussed. Particularly, novel technologies coupled with halochromic indictors are highlighted, including sensor arrays, nanocomposites, smartphone-assisted detection, and ink-free printing.

Degradable π-Conjugated Polymers

“…For example, temporary skin-like health monitoring devices − can replace traditional bulky devices, providing increased comfort to patients (Figure ). Sensors can be built into food packaging, − alerting consumers about the quality of the food they consume and preventing food waste (Figure ). Other future applications include environmental monitoring, − where nutrient and humidity levels can be monitored remotely, implantable energy storage devices, , or on-demand drug delivery with integrated biosensors − for targeted release of medicines (Figure ).…”

Preparation of Maleic Anhydride–Polystyrene Microsphere Cross-Linking Shikonin and Oxidized Nanocellulose Film for Freshness Monitoring

“…While most matrices connect with a pigment mainly through a physical absorption effect or noncovalent bonding effect, these interaction forces are not strong enough, and the pigment molecule easily leaves the matrix surface. Therefore, the connection stability of pigments in matrix material surfaces needs to be improved …”

Role of Analytical and Organic Chemistry Supporting the Challenges in Food Preservation and Safety

“…2 In the case of strawberries, an in-package chlorine dioxide sachet positively affected the preservation of fruit qualities (visible mold, firmness, and weight loss). 3 Finally, a review by Yu et al 4 focused on new freshness indicators, mainly natural pigments, that could help in the development of intelligent packages to help in food safety issues.…”