Researchers in Sydney are developing colorimetric sensors to attach to food packaging to let consumers know when products expire. The sensors react with compounds that are present during food spoilage. For example, the sensor on food is blue when fresh but turns purple indicating the food should be consumed soon. The food is spoiled when the sensor turns red. According to the United Nations, about one third of food is wasted along the supply chain partly because of consumer confusion around expiry dates. Best by and expiry dates are static and do not adapt to variable conditions, so the sensor technology would help minimize food waste.

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Posted on 7 December 2021