The ITENE research centre is committed to reducing food waste and food losses through three lines of action:
Food Losses: Through the control of all the parameters that affect the food, using sensors capable of measuring the distribution cycle risks, such as vibrations and shocks; or different technological solutions for the traceability of the cold chain, such as time-temperature indicator labels (TTIs) and devices for measuring temperature and humidity (dataloggers). We also work on the development of active packaging capable of extending the shelf life of the product or preserve its integrity, thereby guaranteeing the health of the consumer.
Food Recovery: We reuse food waste to create new sustainable packaging materials with improved properties and to introduce them as an additive to new active packaging materials, which increase the shelf life of other packaged foods.
Food Waste: We contribute to the preservation and protection of food through Smart indicators (freshness, temperature, opening, etc.) to help consumers assess the safety of the product beyond the printed sell-by date; or by reducing the adhesion of liquids in sauces (water and oil) to the materials of the containers in which they are contained, making them easier to empty.
In addition, we also carry out shelf-life studies and verify food safety through testing and advisory and consultancy services.