Nanotech in packaging to have prolonged shelf-life

The term nanotechnology packaging refers to that section of the packaging industry where the nanotechnology, which is the technique from manipulating and utilising the material at the nanoscale, is applied.

A nano packaging is an alternative to prolonged food shelf-life thereby providing enhanced barrier properties, mechanical strength, antimicrobial properties, and antioxidant properties. It could be a life-saver in the food packaging manufacturing industry which relies on traditional plastics.

With a CAGR of 11.7% between 2023 and 2032, it indicates sustained momentum and increasing adoption of nanotechnology in packaging solutions.

Nanocomposite films and coating which contain nano-plates such as nano-clays, graphene, and metal oxides provide better barrier performance compared to traditional packaging materials.

Nanotechnology drives the advancement of active packaging solutions with built-in capabilities like antimicrobial, antioxidant, and oxygen scavenging.

Major economies such as China, Japan and South Korea are the significant players who produce about 25% of the world food waste while urban formal and informal sectors in other regions of South and Southeast Asia contribute 22% of the world food waste stock.

These nanocomposite films and coatings give effective protection against oxygen, moisture, UV radiation and other natural factors that contribute to deterioration of quality and decreasing the shelf life of packaged items such as food, medicine, and electronic devices.

Regulatory constraints are a matter of concern for the developers of nanotechnology packaging solutions because of the risks of safety, toxicity, and the environment with nanoscale materials.

The nanotechnology packaging market of the food and beverage sector is recording a steady trend due to a number of reasons. Increasing demand for environmentally responsible methods of processing, growing rivalries and high health concerns only serve to stimulate innovation within the meat processing sector. Nanotechnology holds the potential for meat products to become more functional and at the same time improve the packaging used around the products.

Nanotechnology has garnered over 400 businesses all over the globe, including players in the food field like Kraft, Nestle, Unilever, and Heinz.

Bio-sensors have an important place in the nanotechnology packaging industry providing advanced measurement and control systems for perishable items or goods with quality control. These biosensors are focused on molecules, proteins or compounds detection thus delivering information on the state of the food and its freshness.