Biotechnological processes are essential for developing economies that aim to stand out in future markets. The use of bioreactors is one of the most important unit operations of biotechnological processes, and real-time monitoring of bioreactors is essential to ensure precise bioprocess control. This review presents different types of bioreactors, sensors, and applications in other sectors. Bioreactors, controlled systems for cultivating microorganisms and cells, are essential tools in various fields, from scientific research to industrial production. The use of a variety of sensors is critical for accurate, real-time monitoring, early problem detection, reproducibility, cost reduction, and increased efficiency. These benefits are being realized in numerous applications, including biofuel production, bioremediation and leaching processes, tissue engineering, and drug manufacturing. Innovations in bioreactor technology are expanding opportunities for a more sustainable and healthier future. By developing new types of bioreactors, integrating advanced sensors, and exploring promising applications, bioreactors are playing a key role in addressing global challenges and sustainably advancing science and technology.
Nanotechnology plays a crucial role in food preservation, offering innovative solutions for food monitoring and enabling the creation of packaging with unique functional properties. The nanomaterials used in the packaging can extend the shelf life of foods, enhance food safety, keep consumers informed about contamination or food spoilage, repair packaging damage, and even release preservatives to prolong the durability of food items. Therefore, this review aims to provide an overview of the diverse applications of nanotechnology in food packaging, highlighting its key advantages. Safety considerations and regulations related to nanotechnology packaging are also addressed, along with the evaluation of potential risks to human health and the environment, emphasizing that this field faces challenges in terms of safety considerations and regulations. Additionally, the development of nanotechnology-based packaging can drive advancements in food preservation by creating safer, more sustainable, and higher-quality packaging. Thus, nanotechnology offers the potential to enhance the efficiency and functionality of packaging, delivering substantial benefits for both manufacturers and consumers.
Active packaging has emerged as a promising technological alternative for coating fruits and extending their shelf life. In this study, we developed a Tara gum and chitosan nanostructure-based coating, assessing its effects on guava shelf life and antifungal activity. In vitro analyses showed that nanochitosan suspension concentrations between 4.5 and 5.625 mg·mL−1 completely inhibited the growth of the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and reduced the growth of Puccinia psidii. In in vivo tests, guavas coated with a 1.5% (w/v) Tara gum coating with 0.5% (v/v) nanochitosan exhibited significantly delayed or no lesion growth, unlike the control group, where lesions developed continuously. Beyond antifungal results, the Tara gum and nanochitosan coatings maintained the guava’s luminescence for up to 16 days, reduced weight loss, and preserved firmness compared to the control group. Firmness tests indicated that Tara gum, both pure and at 0.1% and 0.3% (v/v) concentrations, was effective in preserving this characteristic. Chemically, the coating also contributed to increased pH and acidity of the guavas, although a reduction in reducing and total sugars was observed in all groups. These findings confirm that the Tara gum with nanochitosan-based coating is an effective nanotechnological biomaterial to extend the shelf life of seasonal fruits, acting as a physical and biological barrier against pathogens and supporting post-harvest preservation.