Innovation of oxygen indicator for packaging leak detector: A review

Oxygen is one of the factors causing the food product damage. Therefore, vacuum packaging or modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) is an effective solution offered. However, there is always a risk of leakage in the package especially in the packaging process, in the distribution process, and by the insect or rodent damage. Therefore, an oxygen indicator that helps retailers and consumers to detect leaks and to prevent them from buying leaking products is created. Its working principle is to show a color change that reflects changes in the composition of the gas. The use of oxygen indicators is beneficial not only for consumers but also for manufacturers of products who use this indicator for loyal consumers to maintain the consumer credibility with their products. Furthermore, technological advances encourage researchers to improve several important aspects of oxygen indicators such as product safety application, product cost retrenchment, ease of manufacture, and environmental friendliness. This article reviews the development of oxygen indicators and the advantages and disadvantages of each type of oxygen indicator and provides information for researchers and the MAP industry on the types of oxygen indicators that are well developed in the future.