Prospecting the Role of Quantum Dots in the Development of Advanced Food Packaging Systems: From Material Synthesis to Designing Multifunctional and Smart Applications

The global food industry encounters persistent challenges linked to safety, prolonging shelf life, traceability, and sustainability. In this line, quantum dots (QDs), a semiconductor nanocrystal with exceptional physicochemical and optical qualities, have appeared as revolutionary nanomaterials for active and smart food packaging strategies. This review outlines a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in the synthesis, surface modification, and characterization of QDs, with attention to their incorporation into food packaging materials. It stresses their multipurpose roles, comprising antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, spoilage detection, and eco-adaptability. This review also explores the safety aspects of using carbon dots (CDs) in food packaging, with particular emphasis on migration potential and associated consumer exposure risks. A close examination is devoted to biocompatible and food-safe QDs, with methods to accomplish toxicity and navigate regulatory issues. By exploring recent case studies and advanced prototypes, the review bridges the gap between fundamental material science and effective applications in food packaging. QDs prove significant potential in improving the functionality and intelligence of food packaging systems. Their multifunctionality permits combined roles as sensors and active agents, proposing exact monitoring of food quality and prolonged preservation. Progress in eco-friendly synthesis tools and biopolymer-based incorporation methods are moving the field nearer to market readiness. However, challenges continue in terms of scalability, controlling approval, and consumer acceptance. Future research should highlight green synthesis, toxicological evaluation, and standardization to sustain a safe implementation of QD-based smart packaging in the food industry.