Resource-efficient processes for production and circularization of innovative RECYclable-by-DeSIGN fresh meat smart packaging from wood

The REDYSIGN project will undertake a comprehensive redesign of the packaging used by millions of people every day to package fresh meat. The new packaging will be entirely biobased, have smart functionality, and be recyclable in conventional return systems.

To achieve this goal, every component of the packaging – the tray, the barrier coating, the absorbent pad, and the transparent film – will be made almost exclusively from wood-based components (e.g., fibers, micro-/nanofibers, lignin, or chemically or enzymatically modified sugars). The packaging will further gain smart functionality using two food quality sensors; one that detects rotting and one that detects breaks in the cold chain.

To improve the recyclability of the packaging, the project will develop and implement two innovations. Using specific identification markers, bio-contaminated packaging products can be sorted with high accuracy. This improves the overall effectiveness of the recycling process. The second innovation involves advanced oxidation treatment of the used and contaminated packaging. In addition to cleaning the packaging materials, this will also lead to reduced energy consumption, thereby creating a more environmentally friendly recycling process.

REDYSIGN Website