Sustainable Food Processing and Packaging: The Role of Nanotechnology

The creation, utilization and manipulation of materials at nanoscale (<100 nm) using nanotechnology is a recent and emerging method which could be applied to all areas of food processing, production, packaging, quality control and storage for sustainable food production. It has been regarded as a safer and healthier method for high-quality functional foods. Sustainable nano technique prevents contamination, increases shelf life and enhances food quality. Nanotechnology improves the sensory properties of food and maintains the quality of food components. This chapter will give more insight into the types of nanomaterials and nano carriers used in food processing and packaging industries. The principle and mode of action of nanomaterials, factors affecting nanomaterials in sustainable food production and packaging, plus implications resulting from the use of nanotechnology shall be examined. The application of nanotechnology in food processing/packaging and the effect of nanomaterials on human and the environment shall equally be discussed.