On 6th March 2025, the NOVISHPAK project was presented to students at Sir M.A. Refalo Sixth Form in Gozo during an outreach visit aimed at introducing young learners to innovative and sustainable food-packaging research.

The session gave students an overview of the NOVISHPAK project and its main objectives, including the development of biodegradable and antimicrobial packaging films derived from kelp seaweed, as well as smart indicator systems that can help monitor fish freshness. The visit also highlighted how the project brings together sustainability, food quality, and innovation through the use of advanced approaches such as cold atmospheric plasma technology. 

Samples of films containing dyes and indicators were also taken to the school to help explain how these materials work in practice. This gave students the opportunity to see tangible examples of the research being carried out within the project and helped make the science behind smart packaging more accessible and engaging.

The visit formed part of NOVISHPAK’s wider commitment to outreach and science communication, helping to raise awareness among students of how research and innovation can contribute to safer food systems, reduced food waste, and more sustainable packaging solutions.In Malta, the NOVISHPAK project is supported by Xjenza Malta through the PRIMA programme, supported by the European Union.