Congratulations are in order for Smart Lid Systems, the inventors of a disposable color changing coffee lid.  The firm just walked away with the ‘Best of Show’ AmeriStar Packaging Award hosted by The Institute of Packaging Professionals.

You probably remember the infamous early 90s court case when an elderly  woman sued McDonalds for a McFortune when she burned herself with hot coffee served by the fast food chain.

The smart lid, which communicates temperature via color, (the lid is bright red when covering hot liquid, and turns dark brown as it cools), hope that restaurants around the world will embrace the ‘technology.’

The Australian-based company currently has sample packs available for purchase online. For $9US, you’ll get:

5 X 12oz Smart Lids
5 X 12oz Foam Cups
5 X 8oz Smart Lids
5 X 8oz Foam Cups
2 X 8oz Smart Lids
2 X 8oz Paper Cups

They expect to start shipping mass quantities around the world in late ‘08.