Chemicals used for storage majorly possess insecticidal activities – deterring destructive insect pests and microorganisms from stored agricultural produce. Despite the controversy about their safety, local farmers and agro-wholesalers still predominantly use these chemicals in developing countries, especially Africa, to ensure an all-year supply of agriproducts. These chemicals could have short- or long-term effects. Despite the state-of-the-art knowledge, factors such as poor education and awareness, limited agricultural subventions, quests for cheap chemicals, over-dosage, and many more are the possible reasons for these toxic chemicals' setback and persistent use in developing countries. This paper provides an up-to-date review of the environmental and ecological effects, as well as the health impacts arising from the indiscriminate use of toxic chemicals in agriproducts. Existing data link pesticides to endocrine disruption, genetic mutations, neurological dysfunction, and other metabolic disorders, apart from the myriad of acute effects. Finally, this study recommended several naturally sourced preservatives as viable alternatives to chemical counterparts and emphasized the invaluable role of education and awareness programs in mitigating the use in developing nations for a sustainable society.

Due to their size, flexibility, biocompatibility, large surface area, and variable functionality nanoparticles have enormous industrial, agricultural, pharmaceutical and biotechnological applications. This has led to their widespread use in various fields. The advancement of knowledge in this field of research has altered our way of life from medicine to agriculture. One of the rungs of this revolution, which has somewhat reduced the harmful consequences, is nanotechnology. A helpful ingredient for plants, silicon (Si), is well-known for its preventive properties under adverse environmental conditions. Several studies have shown how biogenic silica helps plants recover from biotic and abiotic stressors. The majority of research have demonstrated the benefits of silicon-based nanoparticles (Si-NPs) for plant growth and development, particularly under stressful environments. In order to minimize the release of brine, heavy metals, and radioactive chemicals into water, remove metals, non-metals, and radioactive components, and purify water, silica has also been used in environmental remediation. Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) have become a huge threat to food security through their negative impact on agroecosystem. Si-NPs have the potentials to remove PTEs from agroecosystem and promote food security via the promotion of plant growth and development. In this review, we have outlined the various sources and ecotoxicological consequences of PTEs in agroecosystems. The potentials of Si-NPs in mitigating PTEs were extensively discussed and other applications of Si-NPs in agriculture to foster food security were also highlighted.

The agricultural sector plays a crucial role in global food security, yet its heavy reliance on chemical inputs has led to a rise in emerging contaminants in modern agroecosystems. This review critically examines the impacts of these contaminants on soil health, plant-soil interactions, and agricultural productivity. We highlight how xenobiotic compounds from pesticides, herbicides, antibiotics, and fertilizers disrupt nutrient cycling and soil microbial communities. Key contaminant classes, including pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and industrial pollutants, were discussed alongside their specific effects on soil ecosystems. Additionally, this review also explores innovative bio-based and nano-enhanced remediation strategies, such as rhizosphere microbiome management and nano-biofertilizers, which show promise in mitigating contaminant impacts. Despite these advancements, challenges persist in regulatory frameworks, technology adoption, and education. To address theses issues, we propose a holistic approach integrating research, policy, and stakeholder engagement. Our findings highlight the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize soil health and ecosystem integrity to ensure long-term food security. Graphical Abstract