Implementation of Smart Label with Color Indicators to Identify the Ripeness Level of Ambon Banana (Musa paradisiaca var. sapientum)

Abstract

This research aimed to implement a smart label with color indicators to identify the ripeness of Ambon banana (Musa paradisiaca var. sapientum). The study used synthetic indicators, Bromophenol Blue (BB) and Methyl Red (MR), applied to Whatman paper no. 01 and 41. The indicators respond to pH changes during banana ripening, allowing clear visual observation of ripeness stages. The results showed that Whatman paper no. 41 produced more stable and intense colors compared to Whatman no. 01. The label color changes correlated with physical and chemical parameters, including weight loss, texture, °Brix, and pH of the fruit. The implementation of smart labels can provide accurate, practical, and low-cost methods for monitoring banana ripeness during storage and distribution.