Implications of nanotechnology for the agri-food industry: Opportunities, benefits and risks

•The current and potential future applications of nanotechnology.•Risks and benefits of nanotechnology.•Regulatory aspects of nanotechnology.•The use of nanotechnology for a sustainable food system.•The existing gaps in knowledge that should be addressed.

Nanotechnology has emerged as a technological advancement that could develop and transform the entire agri-food sector, with the potential to increase agricultural productivity, food security and economic growth for industries. Though as still a relatively new concept there are concerns over its safety, regulation and acceptance by the industry and consumers. This review set out to address the implications of nanotechnology for the agri-food industry by examining the potential benefits, risks and opportunities. Existing scientific gaps in knowledge are believed to be a prohibitive factor in addition to uncertainties in the level of awareness and attitudes towards the use of nanotechnology by the industry.