Antimicrobial nanotechnology: research implications and prospects in food safety

A review of the applications of antimicrobial nanomaterials and nanotechnology in improving various aspects of food safety and preservation is presented in this chapter. The review first summarizes the antimicrobial activity of a number of metallic and inorganic nanoparticles with the mechanism of action and factors affecting antimicrobial activity of the nanoparticles. Initially, an overview is presented of the applications of the nano-antimicrobials in active food packaging systems for preserving foods and for enhancing microbial safety of foods. The recent trend of using nano-based sensors in intelligent packaging systems for detection of microbial contaminants in foods, and the efficacy of nanocomposites in the prevention of biofilm formation and biofouling in food industry is also discussed. Acceptance of this novel technology in various aspects of food preservation and safety requires further studies to establish absence of adverse effects of nano-materials and their safe use on foods and food contact surfaces.