Development of novel paper‐based colorimetric indicator labels for monitoring shelf life of chicken breast fillets

This study aimed to investigate the applicability of novel colorimetric paper‐based pH‐sensitive indicator labels for monitoring the shelf life of the chicken breast fillets packaged under air oxygen until 10 days at 4°C. The color changes of the indicator labels were observed using the mobile phone after storage for days 0, 5, and 10. The result revealed that the indicator labels could be used to determine the freshness of the product as a part of intelligent packaging since the color of all indicators changed, depending on the pH changes of the chicken breast fillets. However, the synthetic and the red cabbage‐based indicator labels are found more sensitive to color changes compared to other selected natural‐based indicators. Moreover, the indicator labels have no toxic effect and are reliable and easy to use for monitoring the shelf life of meat and meat products. Novelty impact statement A novel freshness indicator was developed based on natural (pomegranate, red cabbage, and turnip juice) and synthetic dye (bromocresol green, and methyl red) to detect physicochemical and microbiological changes in the chicken breast fillet for consumers as an alternative to the expiry date. The color of the indicator labels has changed depending on changes in the pH value of the chicken breast fillet packaged under air oxygen. It is considered that the developed indicator labels will contribute to new scientific research about intelligent packaging systems.