# Kyushu scientists create smart film that changes colour when meat spoils

2026-08-08T15:42:22+00:00 | Technology | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Researchers at Kyushu University have developed a smart packaging film that turns from purple-red to yellow-green when meat begins to spoil, offering a visual freshness indicator without opening the package. The hydrogel film uses anthocyanin from purple sweet potatoes embedded in a metal-organic framework, which protects the pigment while allowing it to react to alkaline gases from decomposing meat. The material also self-heals, recovering 99% of its strength after being cut, and is biodegradable. The study appears in the Chemical Engineering Journal.

## Coverage

- timesofindia.indiatimes.com <https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/science/this-food-package-can-tell-when-meat-is-spoiling-by-changing-colour-from-purple-red-to-yellow-green-before-the-damage-is-obvious/articleshow/133053870.cms>

Tags: anthocyanin, colour-changing film, food spoilage, Kyushu University, self-healing hydrogel, smart packaging
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