From cultivation to Consumption: Evaluating the effects of nano fertilizers on food quality and safety

Abstract

Nanofertilizers represent a breakthrough in sustainable agriculture, offering innovative solutions to improve nutrient efficiency, crop productivity, and environmental resilience. Engineered at the nanoscale, these fertilizers possess unique physicochemical properties, such as increased surface area, targeted delivery, and controlled release, which enhance nutrient uptake while reducing losses associated with conventional fertilizers. This review examines the evolving role of nanofertilizers in sustainable agricultural systems, exploring technological innovations, benefits, limitations, and potential risks. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview of their significance in advancing food security and environmental sustainability, while highlighting critical areas for future research and policy development. In particular, nanofertilizers show strong potential in improving food quality and safety by enhancing crop nutritional content, reducing pesticide residues, and boosting plant resistance to environmental stressors. Their roles in biofortification of staple crops such as wheat, rice, and maize could play a crucial part in addressing widespread micronutrient deficiencies globally. Furthermore, integrating nanofertilizers with precision agriculture technologies, including GPS mapping, remote sensing, and smart sensors, could enable site-specific nutrient management, optimizing fertilizer use and reducing environmental impact. However, concerns remain regarding their long-term effects on soil health, water systems, human health, and non-target organisms. Limited regulatory frameworks and high production costs also pose significant barriers to widespread adoption. This review underscores the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, green synthesis approaches, and ecosystem-level studies to ensure the safe and effective use of nanofertilizers. Ultimately, nanofertilizers offer transformative potential to support sustainable food systems and meet the growing demands of the global population.