Nanotechnology is increasingly recognised as a transformative force in the food industry and agriculture. Nanoparticles possess unique properties, including a high surface-to-volume ratio, small size, enhanced solubility and distinct optical, chemical, and magnetic characteristics, which make them highly beneficial in agriculture. The integration of nanotechnology in agriculture is gaining importance due to its potential to reduce agricultural inputs, improve food quality and nutritional content and prolong the shelf life and freshness of food products. Nanomaterials are utilised in preservation and packaging to prevent gas penetration and enhance the absorption of micronutrients and antioxidants. These nanoparticles have documented positive effects on crop plants, significantly enhancing seed germination rates, shoot and root lengths, fruit yields, and metabolite content. They also positively influence biochemical parameters crucial for plant growth and development, such as enhancing photosynthetic rates and nitrogen use efficiency across various crops. Nanoscale materials offer advanced capabilities, including programmed, time-controlled, target-specific, and self-regulated functions. Engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) enable precise, "on-demand" delivery of agrochemicals, meeting nutritional needs or protecting against pathogens and pests while minimising the negative impacts of traditional agrochemicals on both plants and the environment. Moreover, nanoparticles enable the precise delivery of diverse phytoactive molecules, such as proteins and nucleotides, facilitating the modulation of plant metabolism and genetic modifications. This targeted approach opens up new possibilities for enhancing plant traits and improving agricultural productivity. In summary, nanotechnology in agriculture holds immense promise for sustainable and efficient crop production, with applications ranging from disease suppression and crop growth enhancement to precision farming and advanced gene transfer techniques.
Nanotechnology, Nanoparticles, Engineered particles
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