ID: 2078
Presenting Author: Scholastica Ene Abah
Session: 675 - Transparency to Trust: Communicating Complex Science and Data Effectively
Status: pending
Green ZnO Neem nanotech extends fruit shelf life and promotes evidence-based communication to counter misinformation on nanotechnology safety.
The short shelf life of Ibadan sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) poses a major post-harvest challenge in Nigeria, often worsened by misinformation about the safety of nanotechnology based preservation methods. This study developed an eco-friendly approach using Azadirachta indica (neem) leaf extract-mediated zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles to extend fruit shelf life and examined its environmental and communication impacts. Neem leaves were extracted with n-hexane and methanol, and bioactive compounds identified using GCMS and FTIR. The synthesized ZnO neem nanoparticles were characterized by UV–Vis spectroscopy, SEM, and XRD, showing spherical particles averaging 10–14 nm. Oranges coated with the formulations were stored for 25 days and analyzed for microbial load, physicochemical quality, and sensory attributes. The methanol-mediated ZnO neem nanoparticles showed superior antimicrobial performance, significantly reducing fungal and bacterial counts while maintaining firmness, vitamin C, and colour. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) indicated significant (p < 0.05) improvement in storage stability. Public interviews revealed misconceptions about nanoparticle toxicity, highlighting the need for transparent impact assessment and clear science communication. This study, supported by SPESSE, Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, demonstrates that locally derived green nanotechnology provides a safe, sustainable alternative to chemical preservatives.
Keywords: Green nanotechnology, Azadirachta indica, ZnO nanoparticles, food preservation, misinformation, impact assessment.
Abah Scholastica Ene is an environmental chemist specializing in green nanotechnology, sustainable materials, and science communication for food and environmental safety.
Coauthor 1: Daniel Oche Onah