Nanotechnology has found various applications in the field of smart packaging for foods. Smart packaging refers to the integration of advanced technologies and materials into packaging systems to enhance the safety, quality, and shelf life of food products. Nanotechnology plays a crucial role in this domain by offering innovative solutions to address key challenges in food packaging.
Nanotechnology has found various ways into smart packaging for foods:
Antimicrobial Properties
Nanomaterials such as silver nanoparticles, zinc oxide nanoparticles, and titanium dioxide nanoparticles exhibit strong antimicrobial properties. They can be incorporated into packaging materials or coatings to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other harmful microorganisms on food surfaces (Sirelkhatim et al., 2015). This helps in extending the shelf life of perishable food items and reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Zinc oxide nanoparticles were first employed in the rubber textile industry because they improve on the wear and tear of the materials made. They are also used for blocking UV rays hence its incorporation into sun-screens. Zinc too, is an important trace element in the biochemistry of living systems and producing a nano composite means it is more easily absorbed into the body. There has widespread interest in their use in biomedical and pharmaceutical applications (Jiang et al., 2018). The Nano-ZnO particles are relatively inexpensive to manufacture and are being assessed for anticancer and drug delivery opportunities.
Oxygen and Moisture Barriers
Nanocomposites and nanocoatings can improve the barrier properties of packaging materials, making them more effective in preventing the permeation of oxygen and moisture. By minimizing the exposure of food to these elements, nanotechnology helps in preserving the freshness, flavor, and texture of the packaged products.
Intelligent Sensors
Nanosensors can be integrated into packaging materials to monitor and indicate the quality of the food inside. These sensors can detect various parameters such as temperature, pH, gas composition, and spoilage indicators. The data obtained from these sensors can be wirelessly transmitted to external devices or smartphones, allowing consumers and retailers to assess the freshness and safety of the food.
Time-Temperature Indicators
These use nanocoated particles in the development of time-temperature indicators that change color or provide visual cues based on the duration and intensity of temperature exposure. These indicators help consumers and retailers determine whether the food has been subjected to unfavorable conditions during transportation or storage, indicating potential spoilage or compromised quality.
Active Packaging
Nanomaterials can be used to create active packaging systems that release beneficial compounds into the food environment. For example, nanoparticles loaded with antioxidants or antimicrobial agents can be incorporated into packaging films to extend the shelf life of packaged foods or reduce the need for preservatives.
Nanoencapsulation
Nanotechnology enables the encapsulation of bioactive compounds, such as vitamins, flavors, or nutraceuticals, into nano-sized particles. These particles can be incorporated into packaging materials to enhance the nutritional value, taste, or aroma of food products. Nanoencapsulation also protects sensitive compounds from degradation, ensuring their stability until consumption.
Overall, nanotechnology offers promising opportunities for the development of smart packaging systems in the food industry. By leveraging nanomaterials and nanoscale properties, it becomes possible to create packaging that actively monitors, protects, and enhances the quality and safety of food products throughout their lifecycle.
References
Jiang, J., Pi, J., & Cai, J. (2018). The advancing of zinc oxide nanoparticles for biomedical applications. Bioinorganic chemistry and applications, 2018. Article ID 1062562
Sirelkhatim, A., Mahmud, S., Seeni, A., Kaus, N. H. M., Ann, L. C., Bakhori, S. K. M., … & Mohamad, D. (2015). Review on zinc oxide nanoparticles: antibacterial activity and toxicity mechanism. Nano-micro Letters, 7, pp. 219-242
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