Review on - Nanotechnology Applications in Food Packaging and Safety

Abstract

Nanotechnology, the science of very small materials, is poised to have a big impact in food production and packaging. Public perception will be crucial to the realization of these technological advances. Today, nanotech R&D of food packaging and the monitoring of nanotech food packaging is a major focus in the food industry. Due to very large aspect ratios, a relatively low level of nanoparticle is sufficient to change the properties of packaging materials without significant changes in density, transparency and processing characteristics. New packaging solutions will focus more on food safety by controlling microbial growth, delaying oxidation, improving tamper visibility, and convenience. The rapid use of nano-based packaging in a wide range of consumer products has also raised a number of safety, environmental, ethical, policy and regulatory issues. Nanotechnologies are expected to play a major role, taking into account all additional safety considerations and filling present packaging needs. This review also provides the most complete accounting of nano-enabled packaging for food products in various markets around the globe.