Abstract: A lid for closing a container comprising a first part having an indentation (16) adapted to receive a projection (18) of a second part, the projection defining a cavity into which a spoilage monitoring device is received; the spoilage monitoring device (2) comprising a reservoir containing a digestor fluid and a tray (62) containing a digestible material, wherein the tray has a base with a tactile pattern (68) formed in the base and the digestible material is solid and covers the raised tactile surface; and wherein an axial movement of the parts relative to each other causes irreversible activation of the device such that the digestor fluid is absorbed by the digestible material liquefying it over a period of time, whereupon the digestible material is dissipated and a user is able to feel the raised tactile pattern.

Abstract: An activatable spoilage monitoring device (2) is housed in a lid for a container. The device comprises a reservoir containing a digestor fluid and a tray (62) containing a digestible material or gel and having a tactile pattern of protuberances (68) formed in a base of the tray. The two parts (4, 6) of the lid axially compress together as the lid is opened resulting in activation of the device by permitting the fluid to come into contact with the digestible material.

Abstract: A food expiry label includes a layer of material (such as a water-swollen mammalian gelatine) that undergoes a phase transition (such as from solid to liquid) upon exposure to bacteria or fungi that result in food spoilage. The label may incorporate a tactile surface that the user can feel underneath the layer of gelatine once the gelatine has changed from solid to liquid. Thus a user can detect when a foodstuff is likely to have spoiled or been on the shelf for a predetermined period simply by feeling the label.