Introduction

The Smart Packaging Technologies and Food Shelf Life Training Course offers professionals in the food production and packaging industries a powerful learning experience on how to enhance food safety, reduce waste, and extend shelf life using cutting-edge packaging innovations. With global demand rising for fresh, sustainable, and traceable food products, smart packaging technologies have become vital tools for modern food supply chains. This course enables participants to stay ahead by mastering both the science and the technology behind intelligent and active packaging systems that respond to environmental stimuli and provide real-time product status.

Participants will gain deep insights into how smart packaging solutions—such as time-temperature indicators, freshness sensors, gas scavengers, antimicrobial films, and RFID—are transforming shelf life monitoring and food quality assurance. By exploring practical applications, regulatory frameworks, and case studies from around the world, learners will be equipped with the tools to drive innovation, improve consumer trust, and support sustainability goals within their organizations.

Target Audience

• Food packaging and processing professionals
• Quality assurance and control managers
• Food technologists and R&D experts
• Regulatory compliance officers
• Supply chain and logistics coordinators
• Product development specialists
• Procurement and sourcing managers
• Sustainability and innovation officers

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamentals of smart and active packaging technologies
• Identify critical factors affecting food shelf life and quality
• Explore smart sensors and indicators used in food packaging
• Assess the role of intelligent packaging in supply chain traceability
• Evaluate antimicrobial and oxygen scavenger solutions
• Analyze packaging innovations to reduce food waste
• Examine packaging systems for perishables, dairy, meat, and produce
• Understand global regulations for smart packaging materials
• Learn to integrate digital traceability into packaging design
• Build sustainable and cost-effective smart packaging strategies
• Apply scientific and technical knowledge to extend shelf life

Duration

5 Days

Course Outline

Module 1: Principles of Smart and Active Packaging

• Classification of smart vs. traditional packaging
• Functions of intelligent packaging technologies
• Indicators and sensors for freshness and safety
• Interaction with food components and environments
• Challenges and benefits of adoption

Module 2: Shelf Life Factors and Spoilage Mechanisms

• Biological, chemical, and physical spoilage agents
• Impact of temperature, humidity, and light
• Role of packaging in delaying deterioration
• Shelf life prediction models
• Shelf life validation procedures

Module 3: Active Packaging Components and Functions

• Oxygen scavengers and ethylene absorbers
• Moisture control and antimicrobial films
• Carbon dioxide emitters
• Functional coatings and nanomaterials
• Release systems for preservatives

Module 4: Intelligent Packaging and Sensor Integration

• Time-temperature indicators (TTIs)
• Gas sensors and biosensors
• RFID, NFC, and barcode-based technologies
• Real-time data collection and tracking
• Integration with supply chain systems

Module 5: Packaging Design for Perishables and High-Risk Foods

• Packaging for meat, seafood, dairy, and fresh produce
• Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)
• Case studies on shelf life extension
• Design considerations for transport and display
• Customization for product-specific needs

Module 6: Regulatory Framework and Safety Compliance

• International packaging regulations and standards
• Safety testing for packaging materials
• Labeling and consumer information
• Environmental and recyclability requirements
• Legal implications of smart features

Module 7: Sustainability and Future Trends in Packaging

• Biodegradable and compostable smart materials
• Circular packaging economy strategies
• AI and machine learning in packaging design
• Packaging analytics and predictive shelf life modeling
• Innovations driving next-generation food packaging

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.