Smart Packaging: Opportunities and Challenges

Preparation of antibacterial composite film based on arginine-modified chitosan and its application in the preservation of ready-to-eat sea cucumber

An edible composite film was developed and applied for ready-to-eat sea cucumber storage to improve the product quality. The PAC film base is first prepared by mixing 0.5 % glycerin (GL) with 4 % polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and 1 % arginine-modified chitosan (Arg-CTS) in the same volume. After the addition of nano-ZnO (ZnO) and thymol (Thy) to the PAC film base, the mechanical properties and functions were tested. Compared to the PAC film, the PAC-ZnO-ThyH composite film showed a 1.34-fold increase in the DPPH scavenging rate and a 2.19-fold increase in the ABTS scavenging rate. Contrary to the PAC film, the inhibition zone diameter of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus significantly increased by 2.35 and 4.08 folds in the PAC-Zno-ThyH film, respectively. After applying the PAC-ZnO-ThyH film to store ready-to-eat sea cucumber for 10 days, there was a significant reduction in weight loss, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), and lipid oxidation levels to 1.47 and 1.26 folds to the Ctrl group. After preservation, the hardness and chewiness of ready-to-eat sea cucumber were maintained at 1079.62 ± 138.86 N and 913.73 ± 175.79 N, respectively. The novel PAC-ZnO-ThyH composite film can be used as an active food packaging for promising seafood applications.

Recent advances in sustainable biopolymer-based nanocomposites for smart food packaging: A review

The main goal of emerging food-packaging technologies is to address environmental issues and minimize their impact, while also guaranteeing food quality and safety for consumers. Bio-based polymers have drawn significant interest as a means to reduce the usage and environmental impact of petroleum-derived polymeric products. Therefore, this current review highlights on the biopolymer blends, various biodegradable bio-nanocomposites materials, and their synthesis and characterization techniques recently used in the smart food packaging industry. In addition, some insights on potential challenges as well as possibilities in future smart food packaging applications are thoroughly explored. Nanocomposite packaging materials derived from biopolymers have the highest potential for use in improved smart food packaging that possesses bio-functional properties. Nanomaterials are utilized for improving the thermal, mechanical, and gas barrier attributes of bio-based polymers while maintaining their biodegradable and non-toxic qualities. The packaging films that were developed exhibited enhanced barrier qualities against carbon dioxide, oxygen, and water vapour. Additionally, they demonstrated better mechanical strength, thermal stability, and antibacterial activity. More research is needed to develop and use smart food packaging materials based on bio-nanocomposites on a worldwide scale, while removing plastic packaging.

Fabrication of freshness indicators based on methylcellulose-containing color indicator solutions for monitoring the quality of coconut water

This is the first study to apply intelligent packaging to coconut water. The purpose of this study was to determine the best color indicator solution for making freshness indicator labels based on methylcellulose along with the color change profile of coconut water during storage at room temperature. Three color indicator solutions were used, namely phenol red, bromothymol blue, and methyl red, which were then continued with the fabrication of freshness indicator labels based on methylcellulose from each of these color indicator solutions and applied to coconut water at 25 °C room temperature storage for 24 h with observations every 4 h in the form of pH, total dissolved solids, total acid, turbidity, total microbes, CO2 gas, O2 gas, and freshness indicator label color changes. The values of pH, total soluble solids, and O2 gas decreased with storage time, whereas the values of total acid, turbidity, total microbes, and CO2 gas continued to increase. The methylcellulose-based phenol red freshness indicator label provides the best color change profile that matches the freshness condition of coconut water, namely purplish red (fresh), orange (immediately consumed), and yellow (damaged) so that it can be used as intelligent packaging to monitor the quality of coconut water.

Investigating the Presence of Falsified and Poor-Quality Fixed-Dose Combination Artemether-Lumefantrine Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms in Kumasi, Ghana

Artemether-lumefantrine (AL) is a highly effective and commonly used Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT) for treating uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, including drug-resistant strains. However, ineffective regulatory systems in resource-limited settings can lead to the infiltration of poor-quality and counterfeit antimalarial medicines into the pharmaceutical supply chain, causing treatment failures, prolonged illness, and disease progression. The objective of the study was to assess the quality of selected brands of fixed-dose combination (FDC) AL tablets and suspensions marketed in Kumasi, Ghana. A total of fourteen brands of FDC AL medicines, comprising eight tablets and six suspensions were purchased from various retail pharmacy outlets in Kumasi, Ghana. All samples were subjected to thorough visual inspection as a quick means of checking quality through meticulous observation of the packaging or dosage form. The quality parameters of the tablets were determined using uniformity of weight, hardness, friability, and disintegration tests. Suspensions were assessed based on pH and compared with the British Pharmacopeia (BP) standard. The samples were then analyzed for drug content (assay) using reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). All the tablet samples conformed to BP specification limits for uniformity of weight (deviation of less than ± 5%), hardness (4.0-10 kg/mm2), friability (<1%), and disintegration time (<15 minutes). The active pharmaceutical ingredients' quantitative assay demonstrated that all the tablets met the BP specifications (90-110%). The results of the pH studies showed that out of the six brands of suspension investigated, five (83.3%) were compliant with the official specification for pH, while one (16.7%) failed the requirement. Unlike the tablet brands, drug content analysis of the six suspensions showed that two (33.3%) were substandard. The artemether and lumefantrine contents in these failed suspensions were variable (artemether: 81.31%-116.76%; lumefantrine: 80.35%-99.71%). The study results indicate that most of the tested products met the required quality standards, demonstrating satisfactory drug content and other quality specifications. The presence of substandard drugs underscores the necessity for robust pharmacovigilance and surveillance systems to eliminate counterfeit and substandard drugs from the Ghanaian market.

Enhancement of a hybrid colorimetric film incorporating Origanum compactum essential oil as antibacterial and monitor chicken breast and shrimp freshness

Recently, intelligent packaging has combined several functions, including monitoring and preserving food freshness in real-time. This study was developed a hybrid film (active/ colorimetric) based on AM/CPC/9%SFW as a carrier of Origanum compactum essential oil (OC) in various concentrations (0%, 1%, 1.25%, and 1.5% v/v). The film's emulsions showed homogeneity regarding particle size, polydispersity index, and ζ -potential. Hybrid films' morphological, mechanical, water and light barrier, thermal, and antioxidant properties were enhanced with an increased OC. Interestingly, all films rapidly responded to pH/NH3 and reflected different colors. In the hybrid films, an inhibition effect against gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria and OC (1.5%) film exhibited a large inhibition zone attained diameters of 37.33 and 15.67 mm, respectively, in the disc diffusion test. Outstanding, AM/CPC/9%SFW/1.5 %OC film displayed the ability to preserve and monitor chicken breast and shrimp freshness to 33 and 21 h, respectively, during storage at 25 °C.

Development of real time-pH sensitive intelligent indicators for monitoring chicken breast freshness/spoilage using real packaging practices

Real-real time CO2-sensitive freshness indicators, phenol red (PR) and bromothymol blue (BTB) dyes, in three-layer system using cellulose based binder was developed to determine the freshness/spoilage of chicken breast. The developed indicators were used to monitor chicken meat spoilage packaged in polyamide/polyethylene (PA/PE) pouches under air and 100% nitrogen (N2) at 4 °C for 10 days. Changes in the ΔE and ΔRGB values of the indicators, CO2/O2 gas composition of packs, and chemical (TVBN, pH, trimethylamine), microbial, and sensory quality parameters of chicken breast meat were analyzed. The visual color change in the PR-based indicator was insufficient for the consumer to detect the spoilage with the naked eye in both simulation and food trial. However, three stage color (dark blue-turquoise-green) change was occurred in BTB-based indicators, and the color transition in the spoilage level of CO2 (10-15% (v/v)) is supported by the physicochemical, microbiological and sensorial properties of the chicken breast. The shelf life of chicken breast under air was limited to 4 days, while the shelf life under 100% N2 was 6 days which are supported by the visual color change of BTB indicator. The BTB-based indicators were found promising on a real packaging conditions and could be adapted to industrial scale for monitoring real-time freshness/spoilage of poultry, ensuring food safety.

Sustainable polysaccharide and protein hydrogel-based packaging materials for food products: A review

Sustainable food packaging is a necessary element to ensure the success of a food system, the accomplishment of which is weighed in terms of quality retention and ensured products safety. Irrespective of the raised environmental concerns regarding petroleum-based packaging materials, a sustainable analysis and a lab to land assessment should be a priority to eliminate similar fates of new material. Functionalized bio-based hydrogels are one of the smartest packaging inventions that are expected to revolutionize the food packaging industry. Although in this review, the focus relies on recent developments in the sustainable bio-based hydrogel packaging materials, natural biopolymers such as proteins and polysaccharides from which hydrogels could be obtained, the challenges encountered in hydrogel-based packaging materials and the future prospects of hydrogel-based food packaging materials are also discussed. Moreover, the need for 'Life Cycle Assessment' (LCA), stress on certifications and a sustainable waste management system is also suggested which can bring both food and packaging into the same recycling bins.

Recent Advance of Intelligent Packaging Aided by Artificial Intelligence for Monitoring Food Freshness

Food safety is a pressing concern for human society, as it directly impacts people's lives, while food freshness serves as one of the most crucial indicators in ensuring food safety. There exist diverse techniques for monitoring food freshness, among which intelligent packaging based on artificial intelligence technology boasts the advantages of low cost, high efficiency, fast speed and wide applicability; however, it is currently underutilized. By analyzing the current research status of intelligent packaging both domestically and internationally, this paper provides a clear classification of intelligent packaging technology. Additionally, it outlines the advantages and disadvantages of using intelligent packaging technology for food freshness detection methods, while summarizing the latest research progress in applying artificial intelligence-based technologies to food freshness detection through intelligent packaging. Finally, the author points out the limitations of the current research, and anticipates future developments in artificial intelligence technology for assisting freshness detection in intelligent packaging. This will provide valuable insights for the future development of intelligent packaging in the field of food freshness detection.

Recent trends in nanocomposite packaging films utilising waste generated biopolymers: Industrial symbiosis and its implication in sustainability

Uncontrolled waste generation and management difficulties are causing chaos in the ecosystem. Although it is vital to ease environmental pressures, right now there is no such practical strategy available for the treatment or utilisation of waste material. Because the Earth's resources are limited, a long-term, sustainable, and sensible solution is necessary. Currently waste material has drawn a lot of attention as a renewable resource. Utilisation of residual biomass leftovers appears as a green and sustainable approach to lessen the waste burden on Earth while meeting the demand for bio-based goods. Several biopolymers are available from renewable waste sources that have the potential to be used in a variety of industries for a wide range of applications. Natural and synthetic biopolymers have significant advantages over petroleum-based polymers in terms of cost-effectiveness, environmental friendliness, and user-friendliness. Using waste as a raw material through industrial symbiosis should be taken into account as one of the strategies to achieve more economic and environmental value through inter-firm collaboration on the path to a near-zero waste society. This review extensively explores the different biopolymers which can be extracted from several waste material sources and that further have potential applications in food packaging industries to enhance the shelf life of perishables. This review-based study also provides key insights into the different strategies and techniques that have been developed recently to extract biopolymers from different waste byproducts and their feasibility in practical applications for the food packaging business.

A critical review on protein-based smart packaging systems: Understanding the development, characteristics, innovations, and potential applications

The use of packaging in the food industry is essential to protect food and improve its shelf life. However, traditional packaging, based on petroleum derivatives, presents some problems because it is non-biodegradable and is obtained from nonrenewable sources. In contrast, protein-based smart packaging is presented as an environmentally friendly strategy that also permits obtaining packaging with excellent characteristics for the formation of smart films and coatings. This review aims to summarize recent developments in smart packaging, focusing on edible films/coatings materials, originating from animal and plant protein sources. Various characteristics like mechanical, barrier, functional, sensory, and sustainability of packaging systems are discussed, and the processes used for their development are also described. Moreover, relevant examples of the application of these smart packaging technologies in muscle foods and some innovations in this area are presented. Protein-based films and coatings from plant and animal origins have great potential to enhance food safety and quality, and reduce environmental issues (e.g., plastic pollution and food waste). Some characteristics of the packages can be improved by incorporating polysaccharides, lipids, and other components as antioxidants, antimicrobials, and nanoparticles in protein-based composites. Promising results have been shown in many muscle foods, such as meat, fish, and other seafood. These innovative smart packaging systems are characterized by their renewable and biodegradable nature, and sustainability, among other features that go beyond typical protection barriers (namely, active, functional, and intelligent features). Nonetheless, the utilization of protein-based responsive films and coatings at industrial level still need optimization to be technologically and economically valid and viable.

Innovative processes in smart packaging. A systematic review

Smart packaging provides one possible solution that could reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In comparison with traditional packaging, which aims to extend the product's useful life and to facilitate transport and marketing, smart packaging allows increased efficiency, for example by ensuring authenticity and traceability from the product's origin, preventing fraud and theft, and improving security. Consequently, it may help to reduce pollution, food losses, and waste associated with the food supply chain. However, some questions must be answered to fully understand the advantages and limitations of its use. What are the most suitable smart packaging technologies for use in agro-industrial subsectors such as meat, dairy, fruits, and vegetables, bakery, and pastry? What are the opportunities from a perspective of life extension, process optimization, traceability, product quality, and safety? What are the future challenges? An up-to-date, systematic review was conducted of literature relevant to the application of indicator technologies, sensors, and data carriers in smart packaging, to answer these questions. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

What is the role of active packaging in the future of food sustainability? A systematic review

Nowadays, the strong increase in products consumption, the purchase of products on online platforms as well as the requirements for greater safety and food protection are a concern for food and packaging industries. Active packaging brings huge advances in the extension of product shelf-life and food degradation and losses reduction. This systematic work aims to collect and evaluate all existing strategies and technologies of active packaging that can be applied in food products, with a global view of new possibilities for food preservation. Oxygen scavengers, carbon dioxide emitters/absorbers, ethylene scavengers, antimicrobial and antioxidant active packaging, and other active systems and technologies are summarized including the products commercially available and the respective mechanisms of action. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Colloidal Solutions as Advanced Coatings for Active Packaging Development: Focus on PLA Systems

Due to rising consumer demand the food packaging industry is turning increasingly to packaging materials that offer active functions. This is achieved by incorporating active compounds into the basic packaging materials. However, it is currently believed that adding active compounds as a coating over the base packaging material is more beneficial than adding them in bulk or in pouches, as this helps to maintain the physicochemical properties of the base material along with higher efficiency at the interface with the food. Colloidal systems have the potential to be used as active coatings, while the application of coatings in the form of colloidal dispersions allows for prolonged and controlled release of the active ingredient and uniform distribution, due to their colloidal/nano size and large surface area ratio. The objective of this review is to analyse some of the different colloidal solutions previously used in the literature as coatings for active food packaging and their advantages. The focus is on natural bio-based substances and packaging materials such as PLA, due to consumer awareness and environmental and regulatory issues. The antiviral concept through the surface is also discussed briefly, as it is an important strategy in the context of the current pandemic crisis and cross-infection prevention.

New perspectives on electrospun nanofiber applications in smart and active food packaging materials

Packaging plays a critical role in determining the quality, safety, and shelf-life of many food products. There have been several innovations in the development of more effective food packaging materials recently. Polymer nanofibers are finding increasing attention as additives in packaging materials because of their ability to control their pore size, surface energy, barrier properties, antimicrobial activity, and mechanical strength. Electrospinning is a widely used processing method for fabricating nanofibers from food grade polymers. This review describes recent advances in the development of electrospun nanofibers for application in active and smart packaging materials. Moreover, it highlights the impact of these nanofibers on the physicochemical properties of packaging materials, as well as the application of nanofiber-loaded packaging materials to foods, such as dairy, meat, fruit, and vegetable products.

Halochromic Inks Applied on Cardboard for Food Spoilage Monitorization

Control of food spoilage is a critical concern in the current world scenario, not only to ensure the quality and safety of food but also to avoid the generation of food waste. This paper evaluates a dual-sensor strategy using six different pH indicators stamped on cardboard for the detection of spoilage in three different foods: beef, salmon, and strawberries. After function validation and formulation optimizations in the laboratory, the halochromic sensors methyl orange and bromocresol purple 2% (w/v) were stamped on cardboard and, in contact with the previously mentioned foods, were able to produce an easily perceptible signal for spoilage by changing color. Additionally, when it comes to mechanical characterization the inks showed high abrasion (>100 cycles) and adhesion resistance (>91%).

The importance and mitigation of mycotoxins and plant toxins in Southeast Asian fermented foods

Fermented foods (ffs) and beverages are widely consumed in Southeast Asia (SEA) for their nutritional balance, flavor, and food security. They serve as vehicles for beneficial microorganisms performing a significant role in human health. However, there are still major challenges concerning the safety of ffs and beverages due to the presence of natural toxins. In this review, the common toxins found in traditional ffs in SEA are discussed with special reference to mycotoxins and plant toxins. Also, mitigation measures for preventing risks associated with their consumption are outlined. Ochratoxin, citrinin, aflatoxins were reported to be major mycotoxins present in SEA ffs. In addition, soybean-based ff food products were more vulnerable to mycotoxin contaminations. Common plant toxins recorded in ffs include cyanogenic glycosides, oxalates, phytates and saponins. Combined management strategies such as pre-harvest, harvest and post-harvest control and decontamination, through the integration of different control methods such as the use of clean seeds, biological control methods, fermentation, appropriate packaging systems, and controlled processing conditions are needed for the safe consumption of indigenous ffs in SEA.

Food Quality, Drug Safety, and Increasing Public Health Measures in Supply Chain Management

Over the last decade, there has been an increased interest in public health measures concerning food quality and drug safety in supply chains and logistics operations. Against this backdrop, this study systematically reviewed the extant literature to identify gaps in studying food quality and drug safety, the proposed solutions to these issues, and potential future research directions. This study utilized content analysis. The objectives of the review were to (1) identify the factors affecting food quality and possible solutions to improve results, (2) analyze the factors that affect drug safety and identify ways to mitigate them through proper management; and (3) establish integrated supply chains for food and drugs by implementing modern technologies, followed by one another to ensure a multi-layered cross-verification cascade and resource management at the different phases to ensure quality, safety, and sustainability for the benefit of public health. This review investigated and identified the most recent trends and technologies used for successfully integrated supply chains that can guarantee food quality and drug safety. Using appropriate keywords, 298 articles were identified, and 205 were shortlisted for the analysis. All analysis and conclusions are based on the available literature. The outcomes of this paper identify new research directions in public health and supply chain management.

Encapsulation of Essential Oils in Nanocarriers for Active Food Packaging

Active packaging improves a packaging system's effectiveness by actively integrating additional components into the packaging material or the headspace around the packaging. Consumer demand and awareness have grown enough to replace chemical agents with natural active agents. Essential oils (EOs) are extensively distributed throughout nature but at low levels and sometimes with poor recovery yields, which poses an issue with their application in food. Due to the instability of EOs when added directly into a food product, they require encapsulation before being added to a packaging matrix such as liposomes, solid-lipid nanoparticles, nano-emulsions, cyclodextrins, and nanostructured lipid nano-carriers. This article is focused on the encapsulation of EOs in different types of nanocarriers. Nanocarriers can improve the efficiency of active substances by providing protection, stability, and controlled and targeted release. The advantages of the many types of nanocarriers that contain active substances that can be used to make antibacterial and antioxidant biopolymeric-based active packaging are discussed. A nanocarrier-encapsulated EO enables the controlled release of oil, stabilizing the packaging for a longer duration.

A causality analysis of risks to perishable product supply chain networks during the COVID-19 outbreak era: An extended DEMATEL method under Pythagorean fuzzy environment

In nowadays world, firms are encountered with many challenges that can jeopardize business continuity. Recently, the coronavirus has brought some problems for supply chain networks. Remarkably, perishable product supply chain networks, such as pharmaceutical, dairy, blood, and food supply chains deal with more sophisticated situations. Generally, during pandemic outbreaks, the activities of these industries can play an influential role in society. On the one hand, products of these industries are considered to be daily necessities for living. However, on the other hand, there are many new restrictions to control the coronavirus prevalence, such as closing down all official gatherings and lessening the work hours, which subsequently affect the economic growth and gross domestic product. Therefore, risk assessment can be a useful tool to forestall side-effects of the coronavirus outbreaks on supply chain networks. To that aim, the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory approach is used to evaluate the risks to perishable product supply chain networks during the coronavirus outbreak era. Feedback from academics was received to identify the most important risks. Then, experts in pharmaceutical, food, and dairy industries were inquired to specify the interrelations among risks. Then, Pythagorean fuzzy sets are employed in order to take the uncertainty of the experts' judgments into account. Finally, analyses demonstrated that the perishability of products, unhealthy working conditions, supply-side risks, and work-hours are highly influential risks that can easily affect other risk factors. Plus, it turned out that competitive risks are the most susceptive risk in the effect category. In other words, competition among perishable product supply chain networks has become even more fierce during the coronavirus outbreak era. The practical outcomes of this study provide a wide range of insights for managers and decision-makers in order to prevent risks to perishable product supply chain networks during the coronavirus outbreak era.

Warranty Seal Deformation Identification for Product Warranty Violation

Product warranty seals or stickers are criteria for after-sale warranty services. The unauthorized removal or modification of a seal will void the warranty. So far, there is no detection method to confirm the warranty, other than the visual inspection of the deformation of the seal. Hence, a system to detect, read, and record the ’warranty’ seal deformation is presented in this paper. A flexible piezoelectric sensor was used to determine the mechanical impacts of the seal. Three major impacts are discussed and evaluated in this paper—partial removal, complete removal, and drop deformations of the seal. These impacts were compared with the ambient responses to distinguish the conditions. All three impact cases show distinct characteristics in terms of sensor values, pulses, and pulse widths. For partial removal and complete removal of the seal, both cases exhibited maximum sensor values but differed in pulse and pulse width. A partially removed seal experienced the maximum number of pulses while complete removal experienced the maximum pulse width. However, if the seal experienced a drop impact, it showed lower sensor values, with the lowest pulse and pulse width. Hence, an algorithm was applied to generalize the conditions and decisions of warranty violations.

Life Cycle Assessment and Preliminary Cost Evaluation of a Smart Packaging System

Smart food packaging (SP) is an innovative packaging system that can extend the shelf life of the product and reduce food waste. The objective of the study is the estimation of the environmental and economic sustainability of the overall life cycle of a SP including a chemical sensor able to detect modifications in the concentration of CO2, which is an indicator of food spoilage, and encapsulated oregano essential oil (OEO), capable of inhibiting the microbial growth. For this purpose, a life cycle assessment (LCA), following the ISO 14040 series and ReCiPe methodology, and an economic evaluation of SP, were performed. The environmental footprint (EF) of SP was compared to that of a conventional packaging (CP) in terms of packaging production, use and end of life (EoL) of both the packaging and the contained food product. The results demonstrated that the production of SP burdened by 67% the impact category of climate change. However, when adapting four use and EoL scenarios, namely the CP generates 30% food waste, whereas SP can generate 5% (optimistic scenario), 10% (realistic) or 20% (conservative) waste, SP proved to be environmentally superior in most impact categories.

Innovative Food Packaging, Food Quality and Safety, and Consumer Perspectives

Packaging is an integral part of the food industry associated with food quality and safety including food shelf life, and communications from the marketing perspective. Traditional food packaging provides the protection of food from damage and storage of food products until being consumed. Packaging also presents branding and nutritional information and promotes marketing. Over the past decades, plastic films were employed as a barrier to keep food stuffs safe from heat, moisture, microorganisms, dust, and dirt particles. Recent advancements have incorporated additional functionalities in barrier films to enhance the shelf life of food, such as active packaging and intelligent packaging. In addition, consumer perception has influences on packaging materials and designs. The current trend of consumers pursuing environmental-friendly packaging is increased. With the progress of applied technologies in the food sector, sustainable packaging has been emerging in response to consumer preferences and environmental obligations. This paper reviews the importance of food packaging in relation to food quality and safety; the development and applications of advanced smart, active, and intelligent packaging systems, and the properties of an oxygen barrier. The advantages and disadvantages of these packaging are discussed. Consumer perceptions regarding environmental-friendly packaging that could be applied in the food industry are also discussed.

A comprehensive review on metallic implant biomaterials and their subtractive manufacturing

There is a tremendous increase in the demand for converting biomaterials into high-quality industrially manufactured human body parts, also known as medical implants. Drug delivery systems, bone plates, screws, cranial, and dental devices are the popular examples of these implants - the potential alternatives for human life survival. However, the processing techniques of an engineered implant largely determine its preciseness, surface characteristics, and interactive ability with the adjacent tissue(s) in a particular biological environment. Moreover, the high cost-effective manufacturing of an implant under tight tolerances remains a challenge. In this regard, several subtractive or additive manufacturing techniques are employed to manufacture patient-specific implants, depending primarily on the required biocompatibility, bioactivity, surface integrity, and fatigue strength. The present paper reviews numerous non-degradable and degradable metallic implant biomaterials such as stainless steel (SS), titanium (Ti)-based, cobalt (Co)-based, nickel-titanium (NiTi), and magnesium (Mg)-based alloys, followed by their processing via traditional turning, drilling, and milling including the high-speed multi-axis CNC machining, and non-traditional  abrasive water jet machining (AWJM), laser beam machining (LBM), ultrasonic machining (USM), and electric discharge machining (EDM) types of subtractive manufacturing techniques. However, the review further funnels down its primary focus on Mg, NiTi, and Ti-based alloys on the basis of the increasing trend of their implant applications in the last decade due to some of their outstanding properties. In the recent years, the incorporation of cryogenic coolant-assisted traditional subtraction of biomaterials has gained researchers' attention due to its sustainability, environment-friendly nature, performance, and superior biocompatible and functional outcomes fitting for medical applications. However, some of the latest studies reported that the medical implant manufacturing requirements could be more remarkably met using the non-traditional subtractive manufacturing approaches. Altogether, cryogenic  machining among the traditional routes and EDM among the non-traditional means along with their variants, were identified as some of the most effective subtractive manufacturing techniques for achieving the dimensionally accurate and biocompatible metallic medical implants with significantly modified surfaces.

Versatile carbon-loaded shellac ink for disposable printed electronics

Emerging technologies such as smart packaging are shifting the requirements on electronic components, notably regarding service life, which counts in days instead of years. As a result, standard materials are often not adapted due to economic, environmental or manufacturing considerations. For instance, the use of metal conductive tracks in disposable electronics is a waste of valuable resources and their accumulation in landfills is an environmental concern. In this work, we report a conductive ink made of carbon particles dispersed in a solution of shellac. This natural and water-insoluble resin works as a binder, favourably replacing petroleum-derived polymers. The carbon particles provide electrical conductivity and act as a rheology modifier, creating a printable shear-thinning gel. The ink's conductivity and sheet resistance are 1000 S m^-1 and 15 Ω sq^-1, respectively, and remain stable towards moisture. We show that the ink is compatible with several industry-relevant patterning methods such as screen-printing and robocasting, and demonstrate a minimum feature size of 200 μm. As a proof-of-concept, a resistor and a capacitor are printed and used as deformation and proximity sensors, respectively.

Trends in packaging material for food products: historical background, current scenario, and future prospects

The commercial demand for food products and dietary supplements has increased drastically in the last few decades. The packed food products and nutritional supplements have made a profound impact on the modern human lifestyle. Since ancient times, storage and long-term use of food products remain a significant challenge for humans. There are different parameters for the evaluation of food products and dietary supplements broadly categorized as quality control and quality assurance. On an average million tons of food, materials get spoiled daily worldwide due to lack of storage and transportation point out packaging systems inequalities. To ensure the quality of packed food products and nutritional supplements among available measures, packaging remained an important event and had been refined from time to time to provide a standard. Over a period, the packaging industry has evolved using modern technology from the conventional methods of new generation packaging, including glass, wood, and paper to most new biodegradable materials. The ancient pattern of packaging; manual packaging has been taken over by an automated system of packing, resulting in enhanced output with minimal chance of damage to valuable products for humanity. The article will emphasize new insights into current packaging system not only provide the quality of these products but also in aiming new heights beyond conventional technologies and consumer opinions. In the present study, we have given more emphasis on novel methods of packaging, the packaging materials, quality of packed products, and their impacts of food products on the environment.

Characterization and Comparison of Biodegradable Printed Capacitive Humidity Sensors

Flexible and biodegradable sensors are advantageous for their versatility in a range of areas from smart packaging to agriculture. In this work, we characterize and compare the performance of interdigitated electrode (IDE) humidity sensors printed on different biodegradable substrates. In these IDE capacitive devices, the substrate acts as the sensing layer. The dielectric constant of the substrate increases as the material absorbs water from the atmosphere. Consequently, the capacitance across the electrodes is a function of environmental relative humidity. Here, the performance of polylactide (PLA), glossy paper, and potato starch as a sensing layer is compared to that of nonbiodegradable polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The capacitance across inkjet-printed silver electrodes is measured in environmental conditions ranging from 15 to 90% relative humidity. The sensitivity, response time, hysteresis, and temperature dependency are compared for the sensors. The relationship between humidity and capacitance across the sensors can be modeled by exponential growth with an R² value of 0.99, with paper and starch sensors having the highest overall sensitivity. The PET and PLA sensors have response and recovery times under 5 min and limited hysteresis. However, the paper and starch sensors have response and recovery times closer to 20 min, with significant hysteresis around 100%. The PET and starch sensors are temperature independent, while the PLA and paper sensors display thermal drift that increases with temperature.

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

Intelligent packaging is an emerging technology, aiming to improve the standard communication function of packaging. Radio frequency identification (RFID) assisted smart packaging is of high interest, but the uptake is limited as the market needs cost-efficient and sustainable applications. The integration of screen printed antennas and RFID chips as smart labels in reusable cardboard packaging could offer a solution. Although paper is an interesting and recyclable material, printing on this substrate is challenging as the ink conductivity is highly influenced by the paper properties. In this study, the best paper/functional silver ink combinations were first selected out of 76 paper substrates based on the paper surface roughness, air permeance, sheet resistance and SEM characterization. Next, a flexible high frequency RFID chip (13.56 MHz) was connected on top of screen printed antennas with a conductive adhesive. Functional RFID labels were integrated in cardboard packaging and its potential application as reusable smart box for third party logistics was tested. In parallel, a web-based software application mimicking its functional abilities in the logistic cycle was developed. This multidisciplinary approach to developing an easy-scalable screen printed antenna and RFID-assisted smart packaging application is a good example for future implementation of hybrid electronics in sustainable smart packaging.

Development of Nanosensors Based Intelligent Packaging Systems: Food Quality and Medicine

The issue of medication noncompliance has resulted in major risks to public safety and financial loss. The new omnipresent medicine enabled by the Internet of things offers fascinating new possibilities. Additionally, an in-home healthcare station (IHHS), it is necessary to meet the rapidly increasing need for routine nursing and on-site diagnosis and prognosis. This article proposes a universal and preventive strategy to drug management based on intelligent and interactive packaging (I2Pack) and IMedBox. The controlled delamination material (CDM) seals and regulates wireless technologies in novel medicine packaging. As such, wearable biomedical sensors may capture a variety of crucial parameters via wireless communication. On-site treatment and prediction of these critical factors are made possible by high-performance architecture. The user interface is also highlighted to make surgery easier for the elderly, disabled, and patients. Land testing incorporates and validates an approach for prototyping I2Pack and iMedBox. Additionally, sustainability, increased product safety, and quality standards are crucial throughout the life sciences. To achieve these standards, intelligent packaging is also used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. These technologies will continuously monitor the quality of a product and communicate with the user. Data carriers, indications, and sensors are the three most important groups. They are not widely used at the moment, although their potential is well understood. Intelligent packaging should be used in these sectors and the functionality of the systems and the values presented in this analysis.

Recent Developments in Smart Food Packaging Focused on Biobased and Biodegradable Polymers

Food packaging has a crucial function in the modern food industry. New food packaging technologies seek to meet consumers and industrial's demands. Changes related to food production, sale practices and consumers' lifestyles, along with environmental awareness and the advance in new areas of knowledge (such as nanotechnology or biotechnology), act as driving forces to develop smart packages that can extend food shelf-life, keeping and supervising their innocuousness and quality and also taking care of the environment. This review describes the main concepts and types of active and intelligent food packaging, focusing on recent progress and new trends using biodegradable and biobased polymers. Numerous studies show the great possibilities of these materials. Future research needs to focus on some important aspects such as possibilities to scale-up, costs, regulatory aspects, and consumers' acceptance, to make these systems commercially viable.

Intelligent Packaging for Real-Time Monitoring of Food-Quality: Current and Future Developments

Food packaging encompasses the topical role of preserving food, hence, extending the shelf-life, while ensuring the highest quality and safety along the production chain as well as during storage. Intelligent food packaging further develops the functions of traditional packages by introducing the capability of continuously monitoring food quality during the whole chain to assess and reduce the insurgence of food-borne disease and food waste. To this purpose, several sensing systems based on different food quality indicators have been proposed in recent years, but commercial applications remain a challenge. This review provides a critical summary of responsive systems employed in the real-time monitoring of food quality and preservation state. First, food quality indicators are briefly presented, and subsequently, their exploitation to fabricate intelligent packaging based on responsive materials is discussed. Finally, current challenges and future trends are reviewed to highlight the importance of concentrating efforts on developing new functional solutions.

Impact of Optimized Packaging on Food Waste Prevention Potential among Consumers

Food and plastic waste are cited as major environmental challenges. The function of packaging is often overlooked when considering waste; however, food packaging is indispensable for hygienic protection during transport and distribution within the supply chain. An important way to prevent the premature spoilage of a variety of different food product groups is to use specially optimized packaging systems. These are able to provide a high level of protection and actively extend shelf life. However, even if novel packaging systems theoretically have great potential for waste reduction, it remains uncertain whether they will also be accepted at the consumer level and actually contribute to waste reduction within households. Three different methods were used to clarify consumers’ perceptions of optimized packaging and thus the potential impact on waste generation. General perceptions have been identified by means of quantitative research among 1117 consumers. Precise information on waste generation behavior was obtained by means of food diaries. Consumer simulations were used to analyze the extent to which optimized packaging can actually have a positive effect on food waste generation at the household level. It was found that the functionality of the packaging usually ceases with the consumer. Consumers are only marginally aware of the advantages of food product packaging in the household, and do not perceive the direct connection between packaging, freshness, shelf life, and spoilage as food waste. In general, consumers rarely or never use optimized packaging at home correctly. It could be concluded that consumers’ perceptions of optimized packaging in terms of potential food waste prevention are not pronounced. In summary, it can be stated that in contrast to its use in retail and transport, an optimization of packaging to avoid food waste for later use by the consumer only shows an effect in exceptional cases, or can only be achieved through targeted information campaigns. If this should be a focus topic in the future, either on the political or managerial level, this has to be taken into account.

Integrating the EBM Model and LTS(A,A,A) Model to Evaluate the Efficiency in the Supply Chain of Packaging Industry in Vietnam

In recent decades, Vietnamese labeling and packaging has been widely recognized as being one of the fastest developing industries in Vietnam, supported by the tremendous demand of domestic production and the exportation of its packaged goods. The emerging packaging technology trends and the participation of foreign direct investment (FDI) companies have led to fierce competition between all packaging enterprises in Vietnam. This paper aims to calculate the productivity performance of 10 packaging companies in Vietnam from the past to the future by combining the additive Holt-Winters (LTS(A,A,A)) model to predict key variables in the financial statement for the next 4 years (2020–2023) and an epsilon-based measure of efficiency (EBM) model of data envelopment analysis (DEA) to define the developing trend, efficiency, and ranking of packaging operations. The empirical results will assist packaging enterprises to identify their positions, suggest feasible solutions to overcome shortcomings and catch up with the global trends, and propose superior partnerships for manufacturers, which have packaging service demands and support investment decisions for investors. Overall, all the enterprises in the packaging industry have high productivity. In particular, SIVICO JSC is identified as the most efficient packaging company in Vietnam, as it continuously maintains the first ranking over the observation time, followed by Agriculture Printing & Packing JSC and Bien Hoa Packaging Company. In the past, Tan Dai Hung Plastic JSC was identified as the most unproductive unit, while in the future term, the inefficient decision-making units (DMUs) are Tan Tien Plastic Packaging JSC, Sai Gon Packaging JSC, Dong A JSC, and PetroVietnam Packaging JSC. The suggestion for incompetent enterprises is changing the value of inputs proportionally to optimize for better performance.

Fruit Quality Monitoring with Smart Packaging

Smart packaging of fresh produce is an emerging technology toward reduction of waste and preservation of consumer health and safety. Smart packaging systems also help to prolong the shelf life of perishable foods during transport and mass storage, which are difficult to regulate otherwise. The use of these ever-progressing technologies in the packaging of fruits has the potential to result in many positive consequences, including improved fruit quality, reduced waste, and associated improved public health. In this review, we examine the role of smart packaging in fruit packaging, current-state-of-the-art, challenges, and prospects. First, we discuss the motivation behind fruit quality monitoring and maintenance, followed by the background on the development process of fruits, factors used in determining fruit quality, and the classification of smart packaging technologies. Then, we discuss conventional freshness sensors for packaged fruits including direct and indirect freshness indicators. After that, we provide examples of possible smart packaging systems and sensors that can be used in monitoring fruits quality, followed by several strategies to mitigate premature fruit decay, and active packaging technologies. Finally, we discuss the prospects of smart packaging application for fruit quality monitoring along with the associated challenges and prospects.