Skip to main content
Knowledge4Policy
Knowledge for policy

Supporting policy with scientific evidence

We mobilise people and resources to create, curate, make sense of and use knowledge to inform policymaking across Europe.

  • Publication | 2024

Nanotechnology's role in ensuring food safety and security

Global Food and Nutrition Security

Globally, there is significant apprehension surrounding food safety and security. Addressing the formidable challenge of ensuring a sustainable provision of nutrient-dense and safe food is imperative. Nanotechnology emerges as a promising avenue, offering substantial opportunities to revolutionize food safety practices and elevate agricultural productivity in a sustainable manner. By leveraging nanomaterials and advanced techniques, nanotechnology provides precision in detecting and mitigating contaminants in the food supply chain. Moreover, it holds the potential to extend the shelf life of perishable goods, contributing to reduced food waste and a more sustainable use of resources. An overview of how nanotechnology can be applied to precision farming, food packaging, and the detection of contaminants is presented. At the same time, the role of nanotechnology is explored to address agricultural challenges, water management, adsorption of harmful substances, delivery of nutrients, and detection of contaminants. The application of nanotechnology in this context aims to tackle health risks and costs associated with its extensive industrial use. Additionally, the importance of applying nanotechnology to food safety and security is emphasized.