Review article

Application of Nanotechnology in the Agro-Food Sector

Carla Martins Lopes ; Faculty of Health Sciences, Fernando Pessoa University, Rua Carlos da Maia 296, PT-4200-150 Porto, Portugal
José Ramiro Fernandes ; INESC TEC, Rua do Campo Alegre 687, PT-4169-007 Porto, Portugal
Paula Martins-Lopes ; University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), P.O. Box 1013, PT-5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal

Abstract

Nanotechnology is an emerging field of research that has been widely applied in different scientific and engineering areas. The agro-food sector is not an exception, which considers its applicability in several areas of major interest for both consumers and producers. This review considers major concepts related to nanostructures and nano-based instruments used in the food sector, as well as their applications in agro-food products. Food safety through the use of nanosensors for pathogen detection, smart packaging, and valorisation of food products by nanoencapsulation/nanodelivery of food ingredients (e.g. flavours) are examples of important areas of nanotechnology. Consumers' apprehension regarding food stability and safety issues is also considered.

Keywords

nanostructures; nanofiltration; food safety; food packaging; consumer safety

Hrčak ID:

104708

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/104708

Publication date:

28.6.2013.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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