The role of nanomaterials in detection and mitigation of aflatoxins: a novel approach to global food safety

Abstract Aflatoxins, primarily produced by Aspergillus species, remain a major concern for global food safety and public health. Among them, aflatoxin B 1 is notably toxic, associated with hepatocellular carcinoma, immunosuppression, and acute toxicity in both humans and animals. These contaminants frequently affect essential food crops, such as maize, peanuts, and cereals, especially in low-resource regions. Traditional detection methods, although reliable and widely adopted for regulatory purposes, still face challenges in sensitivity and processing time. In contrast, conventional detoxification approaches, such as chemical or physical treatments, can raise concerns regarding efficiency and environmental compatibility. Emerging nanotechnology-based strategies under research aim to address these specific limitations. In this context, nanotechnology has emerged as a powerful and exclusive innovative approach to aflatoxin management, leveraging materials with high surface area, tunable reactivity, and favourable biocompatibility. This review explores the distinct roles of nanomaterials in aflatoxin management, highlighting their contribution to ultra-sensitive detection systems and, separately, their function in detoxification and mitigation mechanisms. In detection, nanosensors based on gold nanoparticles, carbon nanostructures, and aptamer-functionalised platforms enable rapid identification of different molecules at trace levels. In contrast, for detoxification, photocatalytic and adsorptive nanomaterials, such as TiO 2 , ZnO, and graphene oxide exhibit strong capability to degrade or remove these toxins. The integration of these materials into smart packaging systems enables real-time monitoring and reduces contamination risk during storage and distribution. Moreover, the use of green-synthesised nanoparticles provides an eco-friendly pathway toward safer food technologies. Despite significant advancements, several challenges remain. Issues such as nanoparticle stability, industrial scalability, long-term biosafety, and regulatory acceptance must be addressed to facilitate real-world implementation. This review critically assesses recent developments in both detection and detoxification, treated as complementary but independent pillars of aflatoxin control, while outlining future interdisciplinary directions for innovation. Ultimately, nanotechnology holds great potential to reshape aflatoxin risk management and contribute to more resilient and sustainable food systems worldwide.

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