Researchers at the University of Strathclyde (Glasgow, Scotland / UK; www.strath.ac.uk) are undertaking a project to save food waste by developing packaging incorporating “intelligent plastics” that will change colour as the contents ages, either because the packaging is damaged or the food is nearing its sell-by date. The new indication technique is to be used in conjunction with modified atmosphere packaging, which keeps food in specially-created conditions that prolong its shelf life. Currently available freshness indicators take the form of labels inserted into the packaging, but they are comparatively expensive.

“Modified atmosphere packaging is being used increasingly to contain the growth of organisms which could spoil food, but the costs of the labels currently used with it are substantial,” explained Professor Andrew Mills, who heads the project. “We are aiming to eliminate this cost with new plastics for the packaging industry.”

Mills added that he hoped the project would lead to a reduction in the risk of people eating food no longer fit for consumption and help prevent unnecessary waste. In particular, he named the meat and seafood industries as likely beneficiaries. The new type of packaging also could resolve current confusion over the different significances of “best before” dates and “sell by” dates. An estimated 8.3m t of household food is currently wasted annually in the UK.