Nanotechnology in agri-food production: an overview

Abstract

Nanotechnology is one of the most important tools in modern agriculture, and agri-food nanotechnology is anticipated to become a driving economic force in the near future. Agri-food themes focus on sustainability and protection of agriculturally produced foods, including crops for human consumption and animal feeding. Nanotechnology provides new agrochemical agents and new delivery mechanisms to improve crop productivity, and it promises to reduce pesticide use. Nanotechnology can boost agricultural production, and its applications include: 1) nanoformulations of agrochemicals for applying pesticides and fertilizers for crop improvement; 2) the application of nanosensors/nanobiosensors in crop protection for the identification of diseases and residues of agrochemicals; 3) nanodevices for the genetic manipulation of plants; 4) plant disease diagnostics; 5) animal health, animal breeding, poultry production; and 6) postharvest management. Precision farming techniques could be used to further improve crop yields but not damage soil and water, reduce nitrogen loss due to leaching and emissions, as well as enhance nutrients long-term incorporation by soil microorganisms. Nanotechnology uses include nanoparticle-mediated gene or DNA transfer in plants for the development of insect-resistant varieties, food processing and storage, nanofeed additives, and increased product shelf life. Nanotechnology promises to accelerate the development of biomass-to-fuels production technologies. Experts feel that the potential benefits of nanotechnology for agriculture, food, fisheries, and aquaculture need to be balanced against concerns for the soil, water, and environment and the occupational health of workers. Raising awareness of nanotechnology in the agri-food sector, including feed and food ingredients, intelligent packaging and quick-detection systems, is one of the keys to influencing consumer acceptance. On the basis of only a handful of toxicological studies, concerns have arisen regarding the safety of nanomaterials, and researchers and companies will need to prove that these nanotechnologies do not have more of a negative impact on the environment.

10th International Conference, Plant Functioning Under Environmental Stress, September 16-19, 2015, Cracow, Poland

“…Introduction: Potential of carbon nanotubes in the agricultural sector is related with genetics -for instance in genetic improvement of plants, transport of genes and therapeutic substances in plants and animals, or in silencing of genes expression under stress conditions. High potential for CNT is associated with precision agriculture -the possibility of early detection of pathogens and toxins in plants or food (Sekhon, 2014). Interesting, but still controversial issue is the ability to stimulate the germination and growth of plants treated with carbon nanotubes.…”

Nanotechnologies associated to floral resources in agri-food sector

“…Perpetual advancements in nanotechnology would enable farmers to efficiently use water and agrochemicals as well as detect pathogens, analyze soil quality, and monitor plant health (Sekhon, 2014). Despite holding more potential than GM, nanotechnology may entail huge risks.…”

Nanodiagnostic Tools in Plant Breeding

“…For instance introduction of resistance genes in plant cells using Nano tools may lead to development of resistant varieties which will minimize expenses on agrochemicals required for disease control [5]. Nanodiagnostic tools uses include nanoparticle-mediated gene or DNA transfer in crops for the improvement of disease-resistant cultivars [6].…”