Application of nanotechnology for preventing postharvest losses of agriproducts

ABSTRACT

Post-harvest loss of agriproducts is a major issue of concern not only for the farmers but also for the distributors, sellers, and consumers as it significantly affects the economic aspects associated with the large-scale agriproduct industry. This loss is mainly due to the attack of various pathogens, and contact with various chemicals or gases present in the atmosphere such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, water, etc. leading to a loss of visual appeal, nutritional content, and quality along with a reduction in the shelf life of products. The use of nanotechnology has provided innovative solutions to this problem with the application of nanomaterials such as nanoparticles, nanocomposites, and nano-films in coating, packaging, and diagnostics. This paper highlights the role of nanotechnology to enhance the shelf life, visual appeal, and nutritional value of agriproducts by protecting them from the harmful environment and other agents. In this regard, the in-vivo and in-vitro studies conducted for the antimicrobial potential of nanoparticles have been explored for various pathogens. The use of nano-coatings and nanosensors in active packaging has been discussed. Biodegradable packaging, the need of the hour in the context of environmental issues has also been explored.

KEYWORDS:

• Agriculture
• nano-coating
• nanosensor
• packaging
• shelf life

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

Data sharing is not applicable to this article as no new data were created or analyzed in this study.