Risks of nanotechnology in the food industry: A review of current regulation

Abstract

Nanotechnology is a new emerging science and it has enormous opportunities for innovation and development in the food and health food sectors. At the same time, the technology has raised new challenges regarding ensuring consumer safety and communicating the risks and benefits without risking the pace of the new technological developments. The lack of risk research and management in place for the vast range of applications of nanoparticles in the food and food health sectors makes legislation challenging. The long-term effect of nanoparticle use may be positive, but there may also be a negative impact on health. From the food safety and health protection standpoints, the objective of this paper is to give a preliminary discussion on the potential applications, risks, food safety and current regulatory situation of nanotechnology in relation to foods and health protection. It provides the industry, legislators and government with some points for attention, rather than a roadmap.