Advances in postharvest nanotechnology: Enhancing fresh produce shelf life and quality to reduce losses and waste

Author(s)

Chang, Yuru ; Ferreira, Marcos David ; Correa, Daniel Souza ; Teodoro, Kelcilene Bruna Ricardo ; Procopio, Fernanda Ramalho ; Brexo, Ramon Peres ; Sarkhosh, Ali ; Brecht, Jeffrey K.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Postharvest Biology and Technology; v. 222, p. 25-pg., 2025-01-20.

Abstract

Postharvest nanotechnology represents a promising frontier for enhancing the shelf life and quality of fresh produce, contributing significantly to the green revolution. This review explores the application of nanotechnology in postharvest handling and food packaging. Initially, we explored the fundamentals of nanotechnology, establishing a foundation for its various applications. We then demonstrated nanocoatings for quality preservation and nanoencapsulation for the controlled release of bioactive compounds, highlighting their roles in maintaining produce freshness. Active packaging technologies were discussed extensively, with a focus on oxygen and ethylene scavenging, CO2 control, moisture regulation, antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant release. Furthermore, we explored the advancements in intelligent packaging, emphasizing nanosensors, tracers, indicators, and quality monitoring devices, including radio frequency identification tags. The review also addressed the crucial aspects of safety and regulatory considerations, ensuring that these innovations meet the necessary standards for consumer health and environmental protection. Finally, we identified the current challenges and future directions for research and development in postharvest nanotechnology, aiming to advance this field towards practical implementation. Through comprehensive research and innovative approaches, postharvest nanotechnology holds the potential to revolutionize the way we preserve and handle fresh produce, contributing to a sustainable future by reducing losses and waste in a most effective way. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 23/17653-9 - Development of nanoencapsulated natural fungicides for postharvest fruit preservation
• Grantee: Fernanda Ramalho Procopio
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 22/10686-6 - Application of nanotechnology for the development of new antimicrobial coatings based on plant-based compounds for post-harvest conservation of fruits and vegetables
• Grantee: Marcos David Ferreira
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 23/14371-2 - Functionalized nanocomposite coatings with encapsulated and non-encapsulated essential oils (EOs).
• Grantee: Ramon Peres Brexó
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Technical Training Program - Technical Training
• FAPESP's process: 18/22214-6 - Towards a convergence of technologies: from sensing and biosensing to information visualization and machine learning for data analysis in clinical diagnosis
• Grantee: Osvaldo Novais de Oliveira Junior
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 23/01567-6 - Conductive composite microneedles manufactured by 3D printing and applications in wearable biosensors
• Grantee: Daniel Souza Corrêa
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 23/13428-0 - Conductive composite microneedles manufactured by 3D printing and applications in wearable biosensors
• Grantee: Kelcilene Bruna Teodoro Costa
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Support Program for Fixating Young Doctors