Real-time Monitoring of the State of Packaged Foods

An international, industrial gas manufacturer with a long record of academic engagement seeks forward‑thinking technology for the food packaging industry. The client hopes to develop a device, system or sensor that can track the condition of packaged foodstuffs in real‑time throughout the supply chain.

These technologies would enable monitoring of the shelf life of food products through, or in combination with, other parameters including gas concentrations and temperature. It is envisaged that sensors would track these variables from within or around the packaging of the food item. These sensors could then communicate with a nearby receiver to enable remote monitoring.

Specific information:

Technology Examples:

• Sensors for measuring key properties like temperature, gas (eg. oxygen, carbon dioxide) concentrations or food state
• Digital platforms or systems for communicating with such sensors, enabling real‑time monitoring
• Other, non‑destructive methods for tracking food expiration

Desired Features:

• Sensors should be small, cheap to manufacture, and ideally printable
• Candidate technologies should work through or from within food packaging
• Technologies must be suitable for deployment in the supply chain

Potential Outcomes:

Our client is keen to engage with centres, companies, technologies and projects that meet the above requirements for further discussion and co‑development.

Submission Information:

• Applicants may use this template when preparing a response outlining a research project, centre of excellence, spinout, or technology.