Active and intelligent packaging, a new report by the Campden & Chorleywood Food Research Association (CCFRA) looks at two rapidly developing aspects of food packaging: active packaging and intelligent packaging.
Active packaging describes an interaction between the pack and food product to extent the shelf life of the product. This is usually achieved by adding active agents to the packaging container or film, such as moisture absorbers and scavengers for oxygen, carbon dioxide and ethylene.
Intelligent packaging monitors the quality and/or safety of a food product, providing an indication that can be helpful in the distribution chain. Examples of devices include indicators, sensors, RFID tags and security tags.
The report highlights the different materials used in the manufacture of active and intelligent packaging and the types of products to which they can be applied. It includes numerous examples of products already on the market.
