Active and intelligent packaging technologies became, in 2025, a central element in the modernization of the European food industry. According to data from the Joint Research Centre (JRC), the use of materials that interact directly with the product or with the atmosphere inside the package is increasing by 8–10% annually, particularly in the meat, dairy and ready-to-eat sectors. Active packaging — systems that release or absorb substances such as antioxidants, antimicrobial agents or moisture regulators — is being implemented to improve food stability and safety, extending shelf life under controlled conditions.

Intelligent packaging, defined by the European Commission as systems capable of monitoring the condition of the product or the packaged environment, is increasingly used across extended supply chains. Temperature sensors, thermochromic labels and freshness indicators enable real-time traceability and help reduce spoilage risks. EFSA emphasizes that these technologies comply with EU legislation on food-contact materials, provided that the compounds used undergo toxicological evaluation and are included in the EU authorization lists.

According to the European Environment Agency (EEA), active and intelligent packaging can help reduce food waste, especially in high-volatility freshness segments such as fresh meat or sensitive dairy products. By improving monitoring capabilities, operators can better adjust logistics flows, optimizing transport and storage. At the same time, the OECD notes that the adoption of these technologies is influenced by initial investment costs and the need to adapt production lines.

In 2025, sustainability becomes a mandatory criterion in packaging development. Industries must integrate biodegradable, compostable or recyclable materials without compromising active or intelligent functionalities. European research increasingly focuses on biopolymers and hybrid structures capable of supporting both protective and digital functions.

For the Romanian food industry, these technologies represent an opportunity for differentiation and alignment with European standards. Implementing active and intelligent packaging can reduce losses along the cold chain, enhance product safety and increase competitiveness on external markets. In a context of rising pressure for quality and traceability, transitioning to these solutions becomes strategically important.

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