Colour change plastic film is a ‘smart’ way to tackle food waste

Gabriel-Chemie Group and Insignia Technologies Ltd are partnering in a project that aims to tackle the growing issue of food waste through intelligent plastics and smart pigments.

Colour indicators, developed by Scotland-based Insignia Technologies, to show consumers when food is no longer fresh, are being incorporated into functional packaging developed with masterbatch from Gabriel-Chemie.

Insignia Technologies’ main product focus is in the food packaging industry, whereby the colour-changing indicator warns when food is past its best by undergoing a dramatic and distinct colour change.

The patented smart pigments can be easily incorporated into plastic food packaging, creating colour changing plastic film that will help minimise food wastage and ensure consumers know when food is fit for consumption.

The new food packaging solution is said to be the first (and only) time-temperature indicator that is cost effective enough to be used on FMCG products.

“Gabriel-Chemie Group has proven to be the masterbatch partner with the technical knowledge needed to process our technology without damaging the integrity or functionality of the pigments. We look forward to investigating further opportunities and uses for our innovative pigment technologies together,” said David Kilshaw, CEO at Insignia Technologies Ltd.