Smart packaging can cut food waste but faces adoption barriers, study finds

A recent study has found that intelligent packaging features, such as integrated biosensors and IoT platforms, can significantly reduce food waste by monitoring food quality and spoilage. However, the research highlights the need for smart solutions to follow preexisting sustainable practices to avoid creating new waste-related issues. 

The study, published in Trends in Food Science and Technology and conducted by US-based researchers, presents food waste as a global challenge with severe consequences on the environment and economy. 

“Intelligent technologies empower stakeholders across the supply chain, from producers to retailers to consumers, to make informed decisions, optimize inventory management, and reduce premature food disposal,” highlights the study. 

“Recent developments in eco-friendly materials, digital connectivity, and advanced sensing platforms hold significant promise for addressing global food waste challenges while aligning with the principles of a circular economy.”

It stresses that smart solutions, such as biosensors, indicators, and IoT systems, represent a “promising modern packaging” approach to mitigate food loss throughout the supply chain. For example, intelligent packaging can detect foodborne pathogens and alert consumers to food freshness for healthy consumption.

Moreover, the research posits that smart packaging can facilitate the “management for the integrated food supply chain,” which it argues is critical for preventing food waste and ensuring food traceability within the entire supply chain. 

Conventional ways to reduce food waste

Food loss can occur at any point during the supply chain. The study notes that post-harvest losses are made worse by inadequate storage, poor handling, and insufficient temperature control.

Conventional packaging technologies to reduce food waste include modified atmospheric packaging, paper-based materials, aluminum cans, and plastic polymers. The study argues that while these methods are effective in extending shelf life, they can “fall short” in providing real-time freshness data.

“Intelligent packaging can contribute to environmental sustainability by minimizing food waste at various stages of the food supply chain. Technologies such as time-temperature indicators and gas sensors provide crucial information about product freshness, enabling better decisions regarding consumption and disposal,” says the study.

“Best before” and expiration dates can also be incorrect, according to the study, leading consumers to waste food that is still safe to eat. 

Following circularity principles 

While the study argues that intelligent packaging can significantly reduce food waste, it stresses that challenges prevent its widespread adoption. Advanced technologies require large investments in infrastructure, research, and consumer education. 

Similarly, integration into existing food supply chains raises logical and regulatory challenges, as different regions have varying compliance standards for food packaging materials. Intelligent systems are also at risk of cyber-attacks, which could lead to data manipulation, false alerts, or the misuse of proprietary information, the study claims. 

The research stresses that intelligent packaging can effectively reduce food waste and secure food security. However, it also highlights that production and disposal must follow circular standards — or risk creating new waste-related issues. 

One way to reduce this risk, suggests the study, is to incorporate biodegradable materials into intelligent food packaging that could also be recyclable. 

“Intelligent food packaging should prioritize the development of scalable and sustainable systems to be integrated into modern food supply chains to tackle food waste seamlessly.”

“A prime priority in such food waste reduction should be given to developing cost-effective smart components, such as sensors, indicators, and data carriers, that can be integrated into packaging at low cost without compromising environmental sustainability.”

The food waste paradox 

The food packaging industry must constantly monitor the impact of its packaging on the risk of food waste. Nerida Kelton, vice president of sustainability and safe food at the World Packaging Organisation, recently told Packaging Insights that there is often a “trade off” between food losses and the environmental credentials of packaging. 

Moreover, a new Avery Dennison report found that digital identity solutions in F&B packaging enable retailers to improve product traceability and reduce food waste. The findings likewise highlight smart packaging, traceability, and labeling as crucial to extending shelf life.