The work aims to study the visual intelligent packaging technology and means in the field of optical system for monitoring the freshness of fruits, vegetables and meat, and master relevant principles to reduce food waste. Concept and characteristics of intelligent packaging technology were briefly introduced. The present situation of food freshness indicated by intelligent packaging was clarified. The application of several different indicators of freshness was described according to different characteristics of food. The application of intelligent packaging was convenient for food quality detection. With the intelligent packaging, the products could be traced, which greatly improved the packaging intelligence and information and promoted the development of food safety detection system. Consumers can easily judge the food availability and thus reduce the occurrence of foodborne diseases and food waste according to the intelligent packaging. The development of intelligent packaging in China is only at the initial stage. It needs the strong support of the country and the untiring efforts of packaging researchers to promote the better development of intelligent packaging in the food field.