Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of materials at a molecular scale, specifically measured in nanometers, or billionths of a meter. In the food industry, this technology has generated significant interest among manufacturers due to its potential applications, including the enhancement of flavors and colors, improving the bioavailability of nutrients like calcium citrate, and detecting bacteria in packaging. However, the initial excitement from researchers and product developers faced resistance from consumers concerned about the safety of these innovations. In response, the FDA has issued guidelines regarding the use of nanotechnology in food, yet the industry remains cautious about how it presents these advancements to consumers.
Nanoscale compounds in food are not a novel concept; they naturally occur in milk, where nanoscale casein particles help maintain fat stability. Furthermore, an inventory conducted by The Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies indicates that over 1,600 consumer products incorporate engineered nanoscale particles. These particles are currently prevalent in the food packaging sector, where they aid in ensuring food quality and safety. Nanotech-based sensors can effectively detect and measure the presence of oxygen or bacteria, such as listeria.
While nanotechnology is predominantly utilized in dietary supplements, it also holds promise in food ingredients. For instance, nanoencapsulation could safeguard sensitive compounds—such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and polyunsaturated fatty acids—allowing them to be released only upon reaching the gut. This process not only enhances their absorption by the body but also minimizes their influence on a product’s taste and appearance.
Effectively communicating the advantages of nanotechnology in food remains one of the industry’s most significant challenges, with some arguing that it hampers development in the sector. Nevertheless, given the diverse applications, including improved food safety, better nutrition, reduced food waste, and biodegradable packaging, it is likely that consumers will encounter a growing presence of nanoscale compounds, including calcium citrate, in everyday products in the coming years.