Eco-nanotechnology: Phyto essential oil-based pest control for stored products

Abstract

The increasing global population prompts us to increase food production, highlighting the need to address post-harvest losses. A significant contributor to these losses is storage pests, sparticularly insect infestations in grains, accounting for substantial economic and qualitative impairments. Conventional pest management methods, while offering modest improvements, pose environmental risks in higher amounts. Essential oils (EOs) from natural sources emerge as an alternative to synthetic pesticides in the storage of grains and seeds of the crops. Introduction of nanotechnological tools offers innovative solutions to overcome limitations, which enhance the stability, longevity and persistence of insecticidal phyto-molecules in EO. Nanoscale carrier materials (polymeric NPs such as CS, cellulose acetate, PEI, PLGA, PLL, dendrimers, nanosphere, micelle, liposome, polymersome and mesoporous nanomaterials such as SiO2, CaO, ZnO, TiO2, MgO, Mg (OH)2, zeolite, carbon tubes, graphene oxides, MOFs) protect EOs from degradation factors such as heat, light, and oxidation, ensure prolonged bio-efficacy, and revolutionise pest management strategies. The innate characteristics of EOs disrupt insect physiology through various modes of action, including interference with metabolic processes and neurotoxic effects like inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, GABA receptors, octopamine receptors and anti-detoxification enzymes. Nanotechnology augments the properties of EO, manipulation at the nanoscale, thereby enhancing the EO delivery and efficacy. Nano-based formulations such as nanogels, nano-emulsions, and nanoparticles, offer selectivity, targeted release, prolonged persistence and control. This approach signifies a pivotal step towards insect pest management for food security and minimizing environmental impact, heralding a sustainable future for global agriculture.