Food loss and spoilage are major global challenges that affect food security, economic sustainability, and consumer health. Intelligent and active packaging technologies offer innovative solutions beyond the traditional protective role of packaging. Active packaging helps extend shelf life by controlling factors such as oxygen, moisture, ethylene, and microbial growth, while intelligent packaging monitors food quality and storage conditions using indicators, sensors, RFID tags, and QR codes. Together, these systems enhance food safety, freshness, traceability, and consumer confidence. Their applications span fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, dairy, and bakery products. By reducing spoilage and food waste and supporting sustainable packaging materials, intelligent and active packaging contribute to more efficient and environmentally friendly food systems. This article highlights their principles, applications, benefits, challenges, and future prospects.