Vol. 2 No. 1 (2026): Applied Research Advances
Articles

The Impact of Smart Packaging on the Digitalization of Supply Chains

Mladen Božić
University of Belgrade, Faculty of Transport and Traffic Engineering, Vojvode Stepe 305, 11010 Belgrade, Serbia
Svetlana Dabić-Miletić
University of Belgrade, Faculty of Transport and Traffic Engineering, Vojvode Stepe 305, 11010 Belgrade, Serbia
Nikola Pavlov
University of Belgrade, Faculty of Transport and Traffic Engineering, Vojvode Stepe 305, 11010 Belgrade, Serbia

Published 2026-06-13

Keywords

  • Food Supply Chains,
  • Logistics Applications,
  • Smart Packaging,
  • Decision Support,
  • Fuzzy Best-Worst Method,
  • Combined Compromise Solution
  • ...More
    Less

How to Cite

Božić, M., Dabić-Miletić, S., & Pavlov, N. (2026). The Impact of Smart Packaging on the Digitalization of Supply Chains. Applied Research Advances, 2(1), 162-168. https://doi.org/10.65069/ara21202620

Abstract

The food supply chain (FSC) plays an extremely important role in society and the global economy, while at the same time facing numerous challenges, among which packaging occupies a key position. Traditional forms of packaging often contribute to increased losses, higher costs, and reduced overall food supply chain efficiency. This paper analyzes the application of smart packaging, namely active packaging, intelligent packaging, and QR code-based packaging, as alternative solutions that can contribute to extending product shelf life, preserving quality, and improving product traceability throughout food supply chains. These alternatives are compared based on a defined set of nine criteria using a hybrid model that integrates the fuzzy best-worst method and the fuzzy combined compromise solution method. Special emphasis is placed on the importance of smart packaging in the digital transformation of the food supply chain, particularly through its connection with modern technologies. The obtained results indicate that the analyzed solutions contribute to increasing the transparency, efficiency, and long-term sustainability of food supply chains. The paper shows that future development in this field is directed toward integrating digital technologies with environmentally friendly materials to reduce waste, preserve freshness, and enhance the resilience of food supply chains.

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