Researchers at National Institute of Technology Rourkela (NIT Rourkela), led by Prof. Preetam Sarkar from the Department of Food Process Engineering, have introduced an innovative food packaging solution using natural materials.
This intelligent biodegradable film, made with Kodo millet starch and beetroot peel extract, can visually indicate seafood freshness in real-time.
This pioneering approach not only supports sustainability goals but also tackles global food safety issues by detecting spoilage through visible pH-sensitive color changes, shifting from red (fresh) to yellow (spoiled) within 48 hours. The product is cost-efficient and targets industrial scalability, making it an attractive solution for the seafood industry.
Published in the journal Food Packaging and Shelf Life, this invention is poised to impact seafood freshness monitoring and waste reduction globally. With India being a major contributor to global fish production and shrimp exports, this development could enhance seafood safety significantly.
