Nanocontainers for food safety

Abstract

Polymer-based, lipid-based, protein-based nanocontainers in different forms such as nanoemulsions, nanofibers, solid lipid nanoparticles, and nanoliposomes as nanodelivery systems have recently attracted great attention of researchers. Nanoencapsulation with different containers for active compounds is a promising and effective nano-based technology to produce different nanoscale structures. Nanotechnology and nanoscience potential applications are infinite in various technologies and industries with innovative new applications. New technologies need to be developed to protect food from microbial contamination to ensure food safety. There is a growing interest in nanocontainers by emphasizing nanotechnology approaches in food safety practices. Smart delivery systems for food safety is still a challenging research area due to food structure complexity, surface structure, size control, mode of action in antimicrobial properties, active compound adsorption on the food surface, the release of active compounds in a controlled manner, and the safety of nanoparticles and active agents. The purpose of this chapter is to highlight the current progress in the development of nanocontainers by emphasizing nanotechnology approaches in food safety applications. © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.