Summary
This narrative review examines nanotechnology as a potential sustainable approach to alleviating nutrient deficiency in food crops, particularly in resource-limited rural settings. The authors survey evidence on how engineered nanoparticles and nanonutrients enhance plant nutrient absorption compared to conventional fertilisers, whilst also critically examining environmental and toxicity concerns. The review concludes that biologically synthesised nanoparticles may offer a pollution-free alternative for agricultural biofortification, though further understanding of their agronomic and ecological impacts remains necessary.
Regional applicability
Whilst nutrient deficiency is less acute in the UK than in developing countries, the findings on improving nutrient use efficiency and reducing fertiliser losses are relevant to UK agricultural sustainability goals and reducing environmental pollution from synthetic fertilisers. However, regulatory pathways for nanoparticle use in UK agriculture would require development.
Key measures
Plant nutrient uptake efficiency; nutrient use efficiency of conventional versus nanofertilisers; nanoparticle toxicity; food nutrient content following nanoparticle application
Outcomes reported
This narrative review surveys the effects of macro- and nanonutrient application to soil, plant absorption capacity, environmental effects, and resulting food nutrient content. The review synthesises evidence on how nanoparticulate nutrients can enhance plant nutrient enrichment compared to conventional fertilisers.
Topic tags
Dig deeper with Pulse AI.
Pulse AI has read the whole catalogue. Ask about this record, its theme, or how the findings apply to UK farming and policy — every answer cites the underlying studies.