Holistic Approach to a Successful Market Implementation of Active and Intelligent Food Packaging

Abstract

Market implementation of active and intelligent packaging (AIP) technologies specifically for fiber-based food packaging can be hindered by various factors. This paper highlights those from a social, economic, environmental, and legislative point of view, and elaborates upon the following aspects mainly related to interactions among food packaging value chain stakeholders: (i) market drivers that affect developments, (ii) the gap between science and industry, (iii) the gap between legislation and practice, (iv) cooperation between the producing stakeholders within the value chain, and (v) the gap between the industry and consumers. We perceive these as the most influential aspects in successful market implementation at a socioeconomic level. The findings are supported by results from quantitative studies analyzing consumer buying expectations about active and intelligent packaging (value perception of packaging functions, intentions to purchase AIP, and willingness to pay more) executed in 16 European countries. Finally, in this paper, we discuss approaches that could direct future activities in the field towards industrial implementation.

Recent Advances in the Development of Smart and Active Biodegradable Packaging Materials

“…Consequently, they should have the ability to control the flow of gasses (such as oxygen) into and out of the package. In addition, active packaging materials may contain antimicrobial or antioxidant components to slow down microbial contamination or oxidation reactions, whereas smart packaging materials may contain sensors to provide insights into the quality or safety of the product ( Figure 5 ) [ 245 ]. As an example, biodegradable packaging materials have been developed for meat applications that consist of a starch/whey protein film that includes a red cabbage extract as a natural antioxidant to inhibit lipid oxidation and improve meat quality [ 246 ].…”

Screen Printed Antennas on Fiber-Based Substrates for Sustainable HF RFID Assisted E-Fulfilment Smart Packaging

“…The domain of intelligent packaging is a dynamic and high-growing market influenced by varying lifestyles, the necessity of manufacturers to create products with enhanced shelf life, and stringent management regulations on safety standards [ 10 , 11 , 12 ]. The use of data carriers such as 2D barcodes, RFID and near field communication (NFC) is highly increasing in interest [ 3 , 13 ].…”

“…Currently, screen printing is one of the dominant printing technologies of functional materials on different flexible and low-cost substrates such as plastic (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate, polyimide…), textile and paper [ 28 ]. Using paper as a printing substrate has ecological and economic benefits because it is made from renewable resources, it is recyclable and substantially cheaper [ 10 ]. Whereas plastics generally feature smooth, non-absorbent surfaces, paper properties can vary to a large extent depending on the composition, structure and environmental conditions (e.g., relative humidity) [ 29 , 30 ].…”

“…The operational logistics, such as transportation, warehousing, packaging and even tracking, are generally outsourced to a third service company (3PL). The rising demand for circular packaging that guarantees product protection and minimalizes waste, challenges logistic companies to innovate [ 10 , 49 ]. They are stimulated to reuse the secondary packaging, which is used to protect and bundle primary packages.…”

Critical Factors in Developing Sustainable Food Packaging

“…Product packaging has been recognized by companies for a long time ago as a critical tool to increase sales (Kusumasondjaja, 2018). It can secure food, cause food able to be carried or moved, and communicates to markets (Muncke et al 2020;Tiekstra et al 2021). In Europe, Asia, and America, the consumers were mainly intending to make use of novel or sustainable food packages (Aday and Yener, 2015;Guiné et al 2021).…”