Challenge Food contamination incidents pose serious public health risks and logistical challenges for retailers. When contamination is suspected, supermarkets often discard entire batches of food as a precaution, even if only a small portion is affected. This results in significant food waste. Compounding the issue, food travels through a complex supply chain, making it difficult and time-consuming for authorities to trace the source of contamination and respond effectively.
Solution This project aims to develop a novel sensor label that integrates both colorimetric sensing and QR code technology for enhanced food traceability. The QR code stores critical supply chain data, detailing the journey of the food item from origin to shelf. In parallel, the embedded colorimetric sensor reacts to contamination by changing colour, offering a visual cue of food safety. These dual-function labels are designed to be low-cost, easily integrated into packaging, and accessible across all stages of the food supply chain.
Impact By combining real-time contamination detection with end-to-end traceability, the sensor labels provide producers, distributors, and consumers with actionable insights into food safety and handling. This innovation enables rapid response to contamination incidents, potentially isolating only the affected items rather than entire shipments. The result is more precise food recalls, improved supply chain transparency, and a significant reduction in unnecessary food waste. This technology will offer a proactive step toward safer, more sustainable food systems.
