Nanotechnology has been widely used in many subsectors of the food industry. For example, manufacturers are able to tailor nanoparticles within food products to improve its taste, texture, and nutrient density. It is also widely used as food packaging. McClements and Xiao’s (2017) study identified some commonly-used applications of nanotechnology in various subsectors of the food industry, which are listed below:
Organic nanoparticles
Organic nanoparticles are primarily composed of organic substances, such as beverage emulsions, casein micelle in dairy products, starch, pectin, etc. Generally speaking, they are less toxic than inorganic substances as they often can be digested and are not bio-persistent.
Silver nanoparticles
Silver nanoparticles are widely used as antimicrobial agents in food products and food packaging materials. Some examples include:
- Kinetic Go Green basic nanosilver food storage container (Link)
- FresherLongerTM Plastic Storage bags (Link)
Zinc oxide (ZnO)
ZnO nanoparticles can be used as a source of zinc in nutritional supplements and functional foods. Alternatively, ZnO nanoparticles can be incorporated into food packaging as antimicrobial agents or ultraviolet light absorbers to preserve food.
Iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3)
Fe2O3 nanoparticles may be utilized in foods as colorants (up to 0.1 wt% in sausages as part of casings) or sources of bioavailable iron.
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles
TiO2 particles are used in certain foods as lightening agents to increase lightness and brightness, such as in candies, gums, desserts, and beverages.
Silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanoparticles
SiO2 nanoparticles are used as anti-caking agents in certain powdered foods, e.g., salts, icing sugar, spices, dried milk, and dry mixes. However, SiO2 nanoparticles can accumulate in the liver at levels that could cause health risks.
Others
Nanotechnology can also used in Dietary supplements (e.g. anti-aging supplements, vitamins, minerals, and botanicals), and nano-based sensors for detecting the ripeness of fruits, the presence of heavy metals, and other safety checks.
Check here to see detailed statistics of nanotechnology in food industry.
