Corresponding Author's : Rozee Behera

Co-Author's : Ranjana Singh, Aashi Mehta

Abstract :

The importance of quality along the agri-food chain has increased due to raised consumer concerns and Tdemands of the stakeholders like government and other interested parties. Prolonging the shelf life and freshness as well as improving the quality of food are the targets in the food market. Intelligent/smart packaging makes use of the communication function of the package to aid in decision making, hence, enhancing food safety and quality. Nanotechnology is a newly emerging technique which has the potential to transform the food industry. This technology encompasses the assembly,characterization and handling of devices, structures or materials. A nano sensor is considered as a tool to measure physical quantities and change these into signals which can be detected and examined. This review narrates the concept of nano sensors and how they can help enhance the food packaging by detecting the presence of gases, chemical contaminants, pathogens, and even changes in environment, thus ensuring the food products to be fresh and safe for consumption. Several types of nano sensors being used in food packaging include nanoparticlebased sensors, array bio-sensors, electronic noses, Fluorescent based oxygen sensors etc. Indicators like time- temperature indicators, freshness- indicators and integrityindicators help enhance the packaging properties by monitoring the change in pH, temperature, and gas compositions. The technology of Radio Frequency Identification and incorporation of Graphene-based nanomaterials are some of the latest developments in the area of food packaging nanotechnology. Besides the various advantages offered by the nano sensors, the safety issues associated with them need special attention, hence regulation on the food security of nano sensors application is quite necessary.

Keywords :

Nano sensors, nanotechnology, food quality, shelf life, intelligent packaging, food packaging, freshnessindicators, food safety, contaminants

Article Details

Unique Paper ID: 29

Publication Volume & Issue: VOLUME 2 , ISSUE 1

Page(s): 21-25

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