A printable nano-based tag that can be invisibly embedded in packaging could provide a cost-effective tracking solution, say researchers at Rice University, USA, and Sunchon National University (SNU) in Korea.

Coatings that enhance the barrier properties of bio-based polymers and improve the recyclability of conventional packaging materials for dried food and pharmaceutical blister packs are being explored at VTT Technical Research Centre in Finland.

An automatic tuning system for drilling, originally developed to aid space exploration, has found application in the packaging industry. The patented device is said to be able to shape thin sheets of aluminium into cans, reducing raw material requirements by 12%.

‘A mandatory reporting requirement’ for research conducted into nanomaterials in food or food contact materials ‘could... act as a deterrent for companies and other laboratories to carry out research and development in the UK’, claims the UK Government.