This project aims to develop colourimetric sensor indicators attached on packaging that enables real-time monitoring of fresh produce quality by visual colour changes. To date, a number of sensors have been commercialised for food applications; however, these indicators typically record the temperature history of a product to indicate whether the food has been exposed to above-recommended temperatures and they do not inform the food quality accurately. Detecting gases produced during food spoilage can be a useful and reliable method for specific monitoring of food quality. This project will create sensors on packaging that change colours when exposed to gases produced by spoiled food. We will develop user-friendly and intuitive sensors that are low-cost and easy to use, without the need of specialised equipment. This sensor technology can be used to monitor the quality and safety of food and beverage throughout the entire supply chain, from production to consumption. The valuable information gained for food quality detection will lay the foundation for its application for beverages. The main difference is instead of interacting with gases, the sensors will be dealing with liquid samples.
