Postharvest Nanotechnology for Fresh Horticultural Produce: Innovations and Applications

Food scarcity and insecurity are global issues, and postharvest loss due to mechanical damage and microbial spoilage significantly impacts the availability of agricultural produce. Nanotechnological methods are being explored to develop platforms for antimicrobial/barrier packaging and sensors to ensure food safety and quality. This book reviews advances in nanotechnology for postharvest management, including nanoparticles, their mechanism of action, applications, and material engineering. It also discusses natural products, modeling, and toxicity concerns. The book will be a valuable reference for beginners, researchers, subject experts, and industrialists.

Format: Hardback
Length: 461 pages
Publication date: 29 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Food scarcity and insecurity are pressing global concerns, with postharvest loss due to mechanical damage and microbial spoilage significantly impacting the availability and shelf life of agricultural produce. Traditional methods have had limited success in managing microbial spoilage, leading to an increased interest in exploring nanotechnological solutions. Nanotechnology offers promising approaches for developing antimicrobial/barrier packaging applications that minimize contact with the external environment, as well as designing sensors to ensure food safety and quality.

The development of nano-systems through material engineering has the potential to revolutionize post-harvest management in the coming years. Postharvest Nanotechnology for Fresh Horticultural Produce, edited by experts in the field, aims to advance understanding of material development, intelligent selection of nanomaterials, and future perspectives of nanotechnology on postharvest produce. The book covers various types of nanoparticles exploited for postharvest management, their mechanisms of action, diverse applications, material engineering, and the use of natural products such as essential oils and plant bioactives. It also discusses modelling of tailor-made materials to meet the specific requirements of packed food, advancements in nanotechnological applications for minimally processed food, and the toxicity concerns associated with nanotechnology.

Key features of the book include:

• Descriptive overview of postharvest nanotechnology
• Comprehensive coverage of nanoparticles used in postharvest management
• Detailed explanation of the mechanisms of action of nanoparticles
• Wide range of applications in postharvest produce
• Material engineering aspects of nanoparticle development
• Integration of natural products and plant bioactives
• Modelling of tailor-made materials for food packaging
• Advancements in nanotechnological applications for minimally processed food
• Addressing toxicity concerns related to nanotechnology

Postharvest Nanotechnology for Fresh Horticultural Produce is an essential resource for researchers, students, and professionals in the field of food science, agriculture, and nanotechnology. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of the latest developments and applications in postharvest nanotechnology, enabling stakeholders to contribute to the sustainable development of the food industry.

Weight: 1060g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367675011