Nanoparticles and Zeolites: Antibacterial Effects and their Mechanism against Pathogens

Abstract

Nowadays, distribution and microorganism resistance against antimicrobial compounds have caused crucial food safety problems. Hence, nanotechnology and zeolite are recognized as new approaches to manage this problem due to their inherent antimicrobial activity. Different studies have confirmed antimicrobial effects of Nano particles (NPs) (metal and metal oxide) and zeolite, by using various techniques to determine antimicrobial mechanism. This review includes an overview of research with the results of studies about antimicrobial mechanisms of nanoparticles and zeolite. Many researches have shown that type, particle size and shape of NPs and zeolite are important factors showing antimicrobial effectiveness. The use of NPs and zeolite as antimicrobial components especially in food technology and medical application can be considered as prominent strategies to overcome pathogenic microorganisms. Nevertheless, further studies are required to minimize the possible toxicity of NPs in order to apply suitable alternatives for disinfectants and antibacterial agents in food applications.