Bio- and Nanosensors in the Food Industry

Abstract

Food safety has become a global concern due to its impact on the health of the human population, and so efficient methods of monitoring food safety have led to several conventional and non-conventional methods. Biosensors, which are a non-conventional method of monitoring food analysis, are required for several food industry applications due to their specificity, efficiency, accuracy, and reliability of results. Advancements in this nanotechnology have transformed the food industries with various applications in processing, packaging, enhancing the nutritional benefits, shelf-life and storage of foods among others. The use of innovations such as nanoparticle-based barcodes, nanoencapsulation, electronic noses and bioelectronic tongues among others are nanotechnology-based biosensors that have been developed to ensure proper monitoring and to address concerns about the safety of food produced in the various food industries. In this chapter, we discuss these technologies, their safety and health issues, trends and concerns.