Edible QR Code for Consumable Bird’s Nests
- Authenticity Check for Genuine and Fake
EBN-QR: Consumable Biological QR Code for Nutrition Scan of Bird's Nests using Cloud Technology. This innovation, developed by Thai researchers, received international recognition.
The QR code allows consumers to check the authenticity of consumable bird's nests using cloud technology, an award-winning innovation showcased on the international stage. This demonstrates the potential of Thai research to develop commercially viable solutions for digital-age consumers. This was showcased at the Future Thailand event organized by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI).
Dr. Jakkrit Thavorn, a professor from Thammasat Business School, Thammasat University, who is involved in the research and development of "EBN-QR: Consumable QR Code for Authenticity Check of Bird's Nests using Cloud Technology," explains that EBN-QR is a consumable biological QR code that is made from edible paper, adhesive, and ink prints without altering the taste of bird's nests.
This QR code innovation supports product verification for consumers who purchase or consume processed health foods. The label containing the QR code is placed on each bird's nest product, allowing consumers to scan it with their smartphones to access relevant information. This information is linked to cloud technology, including product origin, production standards, processing methods, nutritional value, and quality control measures. This verification system promotes sustainable commercial bird's nest production, striking a balance between industry growth and environmental conservation.
"EBN-QR revolutionizes the production and distribution methods of high-quality bird's nests and instills consumer confidence. It benefits consumers by providing access to origin-related information about the products. We are the first in Thailand to develop this technology specifically for bird's nests, which is considered a technology of the future," said the team.
Similar consumable labels exist in the United States, primarily used to check if medication is suitable for patients and whether it's genuine or counterfeit. Similarly, EBN-QR is used to check consumables and ensure the authenticity of bird's nests, which are high-value exports for Thailand. Counterfeit products would compromise their nutritional value.
Therefore, having QR codes helps reinforce the quality and safety of bird's nests, without relying on plastic labels that take a long time to decompose, considering the global focus on climate change and reducing plastic waste. The EBN-QR system is currently being used by a number of bird's nest farmers in Thailand. The system is expected to be rolled out to other countries in the near future.
EBN-QR also received recognition at "The 17th International Warsaw Invention Show" (IWIS 2023), an international exhibition of inventions held in Warsaw, Poland." EBN-QR is a promising new technology that has the potential to make a significant impact on the bird's nest industry and beyond.
