Applications of Nanoparticles

Nanoparticles (NPs) have revolutionized the food industry by providing innovative solutions for enhancing food quality and shelf life of food products. They are used in the development of active packaging materials, prevention of microbial contamination, and monitoring the quality of food materials. Recently, NPs of food materials were used as ingredients of functional foods. NPs synthesized from edible sources were used for targeted delivery of bioactives, enhancing taste, flavor, and bioavailability and extending product shelf life. Additionally, nanoemulsions, polymer nanoparticles, nanoliposomes, and nanofibers have been developed as disinfectants, offering prolonged antimicrobial activity and improved efficacy against pathogens. Nanosensors and NPs were used in the detection of food contaminants and adulterants. This chapter explores applications of NPs in packaging, quality monitoring, and shelf-life improvement of food products. Novel food applications of NPs will also be discussed.