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Future of food pkg lies in embracing innovative tech
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Wednesday, 01 January, 2025, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Dr P A Raajeswari & S K Aburvaa
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Climate change and environmental degradation are a growing concern in recent days. Hence, finding sustainable solutions has become more crucial than ever. As the global population continues to grow, so does the demand for food and consequently, food packaging. However, traditional packaging materials such as plastic has devastating effects on the environment.
To combat this issue, innovative technologies are emerging that offer sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. The future of food packaging lies in embracing innovative technologies that prioritise sustainability and minimise our ecological footprint without compromising on functionality or safety.
1. The current state of food packaging and its impact on the environment - The issue of food packaging and its impact on the environment is a pressing concern in today's world. With the increasing demand for convenience and the rise of single-use plastics, the current state of food packaging leaves much to be desired in terms of sustainability. According to a study conducted by De Kock L et.al., packaging industry consumes the highest volumes of plastics produced globally. Traditional food packaging materials such as plastic, aluminium, and Styrofoam have become commonplace in our daily lives.
However, these materials are not easily recyclable and often end up in landfills or polluting our oceans. The production of these materials also requires significant amounts of energy and resources, contributing to carbon emissions and environmental degradation. Moreover, the food industry's reliance on excessive packaging leads to a staggering amount of waste. From individually wrapped snacks to oversized plastic containers, the sheer volume of packaging waste generated is alarming.
This not only puts a strain on our planet's resources but also poses a threat to wildlife and ecosystems. Fortunately, there is growing awareness and a shift towards more sustainable alternatives in food packaging. Innovations in technology and materials are paving the way for an eco-friendlier future. From biodegradable and compostable packaging made from plant-based materials to edible packaging that reduces waste, the possibilities for sustainable packaging solutions are expanding. Additionally, advancements in smart packaging are revolutionising the way we interact with our food.
Intelligent packaging systems can monitor freshness, track product authenticity, and provide valuable information to consumers, reducing food waste and enhancing food safety. The future of food packaging lies in the adoption of innovative technologies and the commitment to sustainability.
Current state of food packaging and its impact on environment
2. Biodegradable materials: A sustainable alternative - One of the most promising innovations is the use of biodegradable materials as a sustainable alternative to traditional packaging. Biodegradable materials are designed to break down naturally over time, reducing their environmental impact compared to non-biodegradable counterparts. These materials are typically derived from renewable resources such as plant-based polymers, which can be composted or recycled after use.
One of the key advantages of biodegradable food packaging is its ability to reduce waste and carbon footprint. This shift towards sustainable alternatives aligns with the global effort to mitigate climate change and promote a circular economy. Several companies and researchers are exploring innovative technologies to develop and scale up biodegradable packaging solutions. From edible packaging made from seaweed to bio-based plastics derived from agricultural waste, the possibilities are expanding rapidly.
3. Smart packaging: Enhancing functionality and reducing waste - One of the key features of smart packaging is its ability to interact with consumers and provide real-time information about the product. For instance, smart labels can display the remaining shelf life of the food, ensuring that consumers can make informed decisions about their purchases and reduce food waste. QR codes and NFC tags can also be used to provide detailed information about the product's origin, ingredients, and nutritional value, enabling consumers to make more sustainable and healthy choices.
Moreover, smart packaging can incorporate sensors that monitor temperature, humidity, and freshness, ensuring that the food is stored under optimal conditions. This helps to extend the shelf life, reduce spoilage, and minimise food waste. Additionally, these sensors can alert consumers and retailers if the product has been exposed to unfavourable conditions during transport or storage, allowing for timely action to be taken. Another exciting development in smart packaging is the integration of active and intelligent packaging materials. Active packaging incorporates additives that extend product freshness by controlling moisture levels or inhibiting the growth of bacteria. Intelligent packaging, on the other hand, uses indicators or biosensors to detect changes in the food, such as spoilage or contamination.
These technologies not only enhance food safety but also contribute to reducing food waste by ensuring that the product is consumed before it goes bad. A study conducted by Han et al, demonstrated the efficacy of Modified Atmosphere Packaging in preserving the quality of fresh produce by controlling gas composition, primarily oxygen levels, and moisture content. Furthermore, advancements in sustainable materials are being explored for smart packaging. Biodegradable and compostable materials are being developed as alternatives to traditional plastics, reducing the environmental impact and promoting a circular economy. By incorporating these materials into smart packaging, we can further minimise waste and contribute to a more sustainable future. In conclusion, smart packaging is transforming the
future of food packaging by enhancing functionality and reducing waste.
Future trends of food packaging
4. The future of food packaging: Innovations and possibilities - Future trends are focused on bio-based materials, active intelligent packaging, and ongoing innovation in recycling methods, as outlined in various studies examining the future of food packaging. As we become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of traditional food packaging materials, there is a growing demand for alternative solutions that minimise waste and promote sustainability. One of the most promising innovations in the field of food packaging is biodegradable materials. These materials are designed to break down naturally over time, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Lightweight packaging also has the potential to reduce transportation costs and carbon emissions, further contributing to a more sustainable food industry.
Furthermore, the adoption of reusable packaging systems is gaining traction. Instead of single-use packaging, reusable containers and refill systems are being explored as a way to reduce waste. In conclusion, the future of food packaging is filled with exciting innovations and sustainable possibilities. From biodegradable materials and smart packaging technologies to lightweight designs and reusable systems, these advancements aim to create a more sustainable world by reducing waste and minimising environmental impact.
As consumers become more conscious of their choices, it is crucial for the food industry to embrace these innovative solutions and pave the way for a greener future. In conclusion, the future of food packaging epitomises an intersection where innovative technologies converge with a resolute commitment to sustainability. It represents a pivotal moment propelling industries toward responsible packaging practices that encapsulate the ethos of environmental preservation and resource efficiency.
The shift towards utilising biodegradable alternatives derived from renewable resources champions a sustainable approach, offering packaging that minimises environmental impact, promotes a circular economy, and aligns with the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Research and development efforts focused on repurposing biodegradable waste, such as plant-based polymers or compostable materials, present a significant stride in achieving SDGs related to responsible consumption and production, climate action, and biodiversity preservation.
This evolution aligns with the Circular Economy concept, emphasising the cyclical utilisation of resources. By repurposing biodegradable waste into packaging materials and implementing recycling systems, industries can contribute to closing the loop, reducing waste, and conserving resources. Moreover, embracing circularity in food packaging contributes to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by promoting resource efficiency, reducing waste generation, and fostering sustainable production and consumption patterns.
This future envisions a world where food packaging not only ensures product safety and convenience but also champions the preservation of our planet. It beckons a collaborative endeavour, urging stakeholders to harness transformative technologies and forge pathways that align consumer needs with sustainable packaging solutions. The journey continues, fostering a shared responsibility to craft a future where each packaged item not only sustains life but also safeguards the delicate equilibrium of our environment for generations to come.
(Dr Raajeswari is associate professor, Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Avinashilingam Institute of Home Science and Higher Education for Women; Aburvaa belongs to Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Avinashilingam Institute of Home Science and Higher Education for Women)
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