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As a result of their unique physical properties, biological membrane mimetics such as biopolymers are used in a broad range of scientific and technological applications. This comprehensive book covers new applications of biopolymers in the research and development of industrial scale nutraceutical and functional food grade products. All the major food biopolymers are included, from plant, animal and marine sources. Coverage also includes biopolymer-based drug delivery mechanisms intended for biological applications such as bio-detection of pathogens, fluorescent biological labels, and drug and gene delivery. This is the first interdisciplinary book to address this area specifically and is essential reading for those who produce the functional biopolymer materials as well as those who seek to incorporate them into appropriate nutraceutical, food and drug delivery products.

The importance of processing and packaging food items so that they are safe for the consumer cannot be underestimated. Sensors have an important role to play in this, and sensing technologies have attracted the attention of the scientific community in view of increasing environmental and societal concerns. This edited volume presents a collection of ten chapters discussing the current trends of bio- and nano-sensing technologies for processing and packaging of food items. Starting with an overview chapter which introduces the field, the book goes on to discuss novel applications related to preservation, authenticity and safety of foods. Intelligent food packaging and nano-based sensing are covered, and the book finishes with a look towards the pros and cons of how this will revolutionise sensing throughout the food sector. It will be of benefit to scientists and practising professionals conducting research in the areas of food processing, contamination and food safety, and academic researchers and graduate students studying food technology or food engineering.