UK startup BlakBear has partnered with sustainable packaging manufacturer Solidus to explore the integration of smart freshness sensors into fibre-based food packaging. The collaboration aims to show how real-time data can help improve food safety, optimise shelf life and reduce food waste across the supply chain.
BlakBear has developed miniature wireless sensors that are placed inside food packaging to monitor freshness by measuring spoilage gases and temperature. Combined with the company’s AI models, the system provides real-time microbiology insights and shelf-life forecasts through Bluetooth and RFID connectivity, enabling producers and retailers to make more informed decisions about storage, logistics and product distribution.
By integrating this technology into Solidus’ recyclable fibre-based packaging, the partners are exploring an alternative to static expiry dates, based on the actual condition of the product. The collaboration could help reduce unnecessary food waste while supporting more efficient and resilient food supply chains.
At Radar, we continue to follow startups like BlakBear that are combining artificial intelligence and smart packaging technologies to support more sustainable food systems.