Consumer perception and acceptance of smart and intelligent food packaging

The aim of this chapter is to critically examine consumer perspectives on smart and intelligent food packaging, with a particular focus on awareness, trust, usability, personalization, and willingness to pay. Recent literature highlights growing consumer interest in packaging that integrates digital technologies, yet barriers such as limited awareness, usability challenges, and privacy concerns persist. Evidence shows that demographic factors, digital literacy, and ethical considerations strongly influence adoption. At the same time, innovative solutions including AI-driven personalization, IoT integration, and accessibility-enhancing tools such as QR audio and NaviLens are emerging. By synthesizing findings from recent consumer studies, this chapter identifies gaps in inclusivity and standardization while outlining pathways for future innovation. The insights presented provide a foundation for developing consumer-centered packaging systems that align technological advances with trust, transparency, and accessibility.