ABSTRACT
Traditionally, the basic functions of packaging have been classied into four categories: protection, communication, convenience, and containment. The package is used to protect the product against the deteriorative effects of the external environment, communicate with the consumer as a marketing tool, provide the consumer with greater ease of use and time-saving convenience, and contain products of various sizes and shapes. Although traditional packaging has contributed greatly to the early development of the food distribution systems, it is no longer sufcient because today’s society has become increasingly complex. Innovative packaging with enhanced functions is constantly sought in response to the consumer demands for minimally processed foods with fewer preservatives, increased regulatory requirements, market globalization, and concern for food safety. Within the concept of innovative packaging, it is necessary to dene and distinguish between active packaging and intelligent packaging.
