Nanotechnology in the global food system: managerial challenges, strategic opportunities, and pathways for responsible adoption

Abstract Nanotechnology offers transformative potential for the global food and agribusiness sector, yet its commercial adoption remains limited. This review examines nanomaterials from a managerial and strategic perspective, focusing on their implications for agribusiness firms, supply chain efficiency, investment decision-making, regulatory compliance, and consumer acceptance. While technical advancements in nano-enabled packaging, nutrient delivery, and sensing systems promise reduced food loss, extended shelf life, and enhanced product differentiation, significant barriers persist, including regulatory fragmentation, uncertain return-on-investment, consumer skepticism, and liability risks. Drawing on multidisciplinary evidence, we identify key strategic challenges and propose practical frameworks for agribusiness managers to evaluate, adopt, and govern nano-enabled innovations responsibly. The analysis highlights the critical need for coordinated industry–regulator–science collaboration to translate laboratory successes into viable commercial strategies within the global food system.