Nano-Fortifying the Future Plate: A Critical Review of Nanotechnology Applications in Food Enrichment

Abstract

Proportion of children globally experience dietary deficiencies, which have a negative imp A considerable act on their physical and cognitive growth and heighten their vulnerability to illnesses. In addition, undernutrition worsens the intensity of several infections, such as measles and malaria. Food fortification is an important nutritional strategy that helps to combat micronutrient deficiencies and decrease their occurrence in many low- and middle-income nations. Although there has been a significant rise in recent years, food fortification schemes have also encountered considerable criticism from the scientific community. The present review aimed to clarify the actual influence of food fortification measures on the mitigation of malnutrition. A detailed review of the current state of the art in nanotechnology applications for food enrichment is provided in this manuscript. A comprehensive literature search was conducted utilizing databases such as Web of Science/ Knowledge, Google Scholar, Elsevier ScienceDirect, and Springer Online Journals. The search query included phrases such as food fortification, micronutrient shortages, fortified food, the impact of food fortification, and food-to-food fortification. The paper discusses the nanostructures, such as nanoparticles, nanocapsules, and nanoemulsions, in encapsulating, delivering, and safeguarding bioactive compounds within food matrices, with a particular emphasis on nanofortification. Recent advancements in nano-enabled food fortification are summarised in the manuscript, which also identifies significant challenges and opportunities for future commercialization and research. Food fortification is essential for both developed and developing nations to ensure that processed foods contain the necessary nutrients, hence improving their nutritional value for human consumption. Nanotechnology can be applied to enrich food by improving bioavailability and providing a delivery system for phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals. This review enhances our knowledge regarding the profound consequences it may have on the future of nutrition and food technology.