POR FESR 2014-2020

ACHIEVEMENTS / PATENT – Smart Packaging

Training Objective

A patented system capable of monitoring storage conditions and the quality status of food directly within the packaging, detecting changes in the internal environment of the package. The device provides information on the impact of these variations on product quality and remaining shelf life, enabling more informed and timely management of the distribution chain, without compromising consumer safety.

The patent and related development activities are designed to support the supply chain of products of animal origin, allowing continuous monitoring of what occurs inside each package.

Foods of animal origin, when exposed to temperature fluctuations or improper storage conditions, may undergo degradation processes that lead to the formation of volatile compounds. The smart packaging integrates a sensor capable of detecting these molecules, signaling potential product alterations.

Through interaction with compounds generated by degradation processes, the sensor is activated, enabling operators to promptly identify compromised packages. This approach allows for targeted intervention, removing only the affected units rather than entire batches, as is often the case with traditional control systems.

FESR_HD

LOCATION & PERIOD

Completed March 2023 – Italy

 

PATENT

The patent has been developed in compliance with existing laws and regulations:

  • EU Framework Regulation No. 1935/2004
  • EC Regulation No. 2023/2006
  • EC Regulation No. 450/2009
  • EFSA approved substances list

 

CALL

Application under Action 1.2.4 “Support for the implementation of complex research and development projects for companies associated with Research and Innovation Clusters (2020)” within the Liguria ERDF (POR FESR) 2014–2020 Programme, with financial support from the European Union for the implementation of the research project “MERITI”.

 

FOCUS

The adoption of this low-cost technology will contribute to achieving the European Union’s objectives in reducing food waste, with significant positive socio-environmental impacts, including the mitigation of global warming.