Smart Packaging Technologies for Sustainable and Circular Food Systems

The increasing concerns related to food waste and plastic pollution have created a need for packaging solutions that support circular economy goals. Smart packaging system, which combines active and intelligent features, offers significant potential to improve food preservation, enhance supply chain visibility, and minimize losses. However, the inclusion of sensors, multilayer materials, and functional additives can reduce recyclability and interfere with efficient material recovery. This review examines smart packaging from a circular economy perspective, with particular emphasis on the relationship between material choice, functional performance, and end‐of‐life options. Bio‐based polymers, natural active compounds, and biodegradable sensing technologies are discussed alongside design strategies such as design for separation and printed electronics. The role of smart packaging in reducing food waste, improving traceability, and shaping consumer decisions is also evaluated using life cycle and economic considerations. The review elaborates that the overall environmental benefit of smart packaging depends on a system‐level approach, where the reduction of food waste compensates for the additional impacts of advanced materials. At the same time, challenges related to recyclability, cost, scalability, and regulatory requirements remain key barriers.