Nanotechnology and food containers joined forces to improve food shelf life. In fact, the incorporation of nanoparticles the packaging industry is being able to offer packages with improved characteristics. In a competitive environment like the present, nanotechnology offers many opportunities for improvement in various agricultural sectors like the meat, the prepared dishes, fruits and vegetables, fish, breads and pastries, among others. In short, all those who use plastics in food packaging. How is moving its application in the food industry?
A booming technology
Nanotechnology is booming if we consider the number of scientific advances that have led to new patents and applications useful. Not only in food, in other sectors. In fact, it is expected that nanotechnology will have a major impact on key sectors of the economy. In this regard, the European Commission is committed to this area by dedicating a funding line of the Seventh Framework Programme for R & D.
Companies, schools, institutions, etc. efforts and resources being devoted to nanotechnology. In recent times are increasingly research groups and initiatives working to find new applications.
New research, new opportunities
Elsewhere in the world we find examples of that investment. The Institute of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, University of Bar-Ilan (Israel) has developed a nanoparticle-coated paper, with antimicrobial activity that could fight bacteria and lengthen shelf life of products. The particles are incorporated into the paper in one ultrasonificación process, have demonstrated their stability (nanoparticles losses are minimal) and its antimicrobial potential.
ainia Experience
ainia have experience in research and development of new packaging materials based on the use of nanotechnology. We have several open research lines in this field and we are working to incorporate recent advances in nanotechnology. This is allowing us to acquire knowledge about the development of materials that can incorporate various properties in one material reducing costs and improving efficiency of packaging, thereby achieving keep food fresh longer. The incorporation of nanoparticles into various packaging materials allows for enhanced properties and advanced, for example, packaging materials capable of absorbing oxygen and moisture with antimicrobial capacity, among others.
This requires facilities that allow testing equipped with small amounts of materials. In lines have ainia complete extrusion coating and plastics for both the food sector and other key sectors.
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