A Multi-Model Approach to Implement a Dynamic Shelf Life Criterion in Meat Supply Chains

Colorimetric indicator films based on carboxymethyl cellulose and anthocyanins as a visual indicator for shrimp freshness tracking

This study aimed to evaluate the response efficiency of colorimetric indicator films based on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) incorporated with different anthocyanins [Karanda alone (CMC/AK), butterfly pea alone (CMC/AB), and a mixture of anthocyanins from Karanda and butterfly pea (CMC/AK75/AB25)] for tracking shrimp freshness during storage at different temperatures and times (4 °C for 8 days and 25 °C for 30 h). The mathematical models were also applied to predict their freshness and shelf life. The CMC/AK75/AB25 indicator film was the most sensitive and clearly changed color, which could be distinguished by the naked eye. Color changes indicated the shrimp deterioration processes: dark purple (fresh), purplish gray or gray (semi-fresh), and olive green or brown (spoilage). During shrimp storage at temperatures of 4 and 25 °C, the pH reached 7.52 and 8.14, TVB-N 35.98 and 72.72 mg/100 g, and TVC 5.75 and 7.88 log CFU/g, respectively, indicating shrimp had completely deteriorated. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between the ΔE value of the indicator film and both TVB-N and TVC. These findings suggest that the CMC/AK75/AB25 indicator film could serve as a real-time visual indicator for tracking shrimp freshness and could enhance the guarantee of shrimp safety.

Ambient Parameter Monitoring in Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Supply Chains Using Internet of Things-Enabled Sensor and Communication Technology

Up to half of the global fruit and vegetable production is wasted or lost along the supply chain, causing wastage of resources and economic losses. Ambient parameters strongly influence quality and shelf life of fresh fruit and vegetables. Monitoring these parameters by using Internet of things (IoT)-enabled sensor and communication technology in supply chains can help to optimize product qualities and hence reduce product rejections and losses. Various corresponding technical solutions are available, but the diverse characteristics of fresh plant-based produce impede establishing valuable applications. Therefore, the aim of this review is to give an overview of IoT-enabled sensor and communication technology in relation to the specific quality and spoilage characteristics of fresh fruit and vegetables. Temperature, relative humidity (RH), O₂, CO₂ and vibration/shock are ambient parameters that provide most added value regarding product quality optimization, and can be monitored by current IoT-enabled sensor technology. Several wireless communication technologies are available for real-time data exchange and subsequent data processing and usage. Although many studies investigate the general possibility of monitoring systems using IoT-enabled technology, large-scale implementation in fresh fruit and vegetable supply chains is still hindered by unsolved challenges.