Nanoparticles and Their Antimicrobial Activity: A Review Study

Abstract

This review rigorously evaluates the antimicrobial characteristics of diverse nanoparticles (NPs) and their potential application in active food-packaging systems. The research concentrates on four principal categories: metallic nanoparticles (Ag, Cu, Au, Se), metal-oxide nanoparticles (ZnO, TiO₂, MgO, Fe₃O₄), carbon-based nanomaterials (graphene oxide, carbon nanotubes), and polymeric nanoparticles (chitosan, PLGA, PCL).

These nanomaterials demonstrate various antimicrobial mechanisms, such as the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), disruption of cell membranes, metabolic interference, and ion release that hinders DNA replication and protein synthesis. Silver nanoparticles exhibit remarkable broad-spectrum antimicrobial effectiveness; however, they pose cytotoxic risks at elevated concentrations.

 Copper and zinc oxide nanoparticles are two other options that are cheaper and less toxic. Gold and selenium nanoparticles are showing promise in fighting pathogens that are resistant to many drugs. Magnesium and titanium oxides, on the other hand, are good for the environment. Adding these nanoparticles to biopolymer or synthetic matrices makes packaging films stronger, more resistant to damage, and better at fighting germs. But there are still problems with long-term toxicity, environmental accumulation, unclear regulations, and the ability to scale up production. This review emphasises the necessity for standardised synthesis, eco-friendly manufacturing methods, and thorough toxicological evaluations to enable the secure, widespread implementation of antimicrobial nanomaterials in food preservation and public health initiatives.