Introduction to Nanotechnology‐Enhanced Food Packaging Industry

Nanotechnology is useful for improving the quality of the packaging of products. Nano-packaging is a new field of study and research in nanoscience. Bio-based nano-packaging minimizes waste, increases the food product shelf life, and retains the quality. This packaging has excellent mechanical properties like strength and extensibility, barrier properties, and environmental stability. Incorporating various active substances like antimicrobial agents and oxygen scavenging materials in packaging and using nanosensors and nanodevices as an intelligent package improve the quality, extend the shelf life, and ensure food safety. Nanotechnological applications have become increasingly used in food science and technology, including the processing of foods, food packaging, food safety, and the shelf life extension of foods. This chapter summarizes the potential for nanoparticles in the food industry to ensure food safety and retain food quality. Aspects of nanotechnology application concerning food nutrition and organoleptic food characteristics are briefly discussed along with some insights on safety issues and regulatory concerns regarding nano-processed food products. This chapter also reviews the application of biodegradable nano-packaging in the food industry for manufacturing-aided process and smart food packaging. Indeed, packaging with bio-based material is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to existing non-degradable plastic polymer packaging.