Application of inkjet-printing technology in developing indicators/sensors for intelligent packaging systems

Intelligent packaging is one of the advanced packaging systems in enhancing the functionality of a food package. The development of such innovative packaging systems for commercialization faces many challenges, especially in the fabrication process, for the production of consistent, reproducible, low-cost, and large-scale packaging materials. Based on recent research outputs, one of the solutions can be the application of inkjet printing, a versatile technique that is also commonly used in printing the packaging labels, tags, and corrugated packages. The recent studies on developing sensors and packaging materials via inkjet printing were discussed, such as the generation of freshness indicator, oxygen sensor, and data carrier. More future studies of inkjet-printed materials are needed to investigate, to further enhance packaging functionality in food-packaging industry.