Importance of Nanotechnology

Nanosciences and nanotechnology rely on the understanding and use of materials at the atomic and molecular level. Materials at the nanoscale have been shown to have distinctly different properties to those at the macro-scale, which means that nanomaterials offer exciting new benefits in many applications, including food.

There are many applications that use nanotechnology, including electronics, sensors, pharmaceutical and pharmaceutical products, the aerospace industry, home goods, building materials, sporting goods and much more. To date, however, only a small percentage of uses relate to food, mainly food and dietary supplements, and packaging.

The content of this IFST Information Statement defines and briefly explains nanoscience and nanotechnology, assessing potential applications and social concerns, their use in food and outlining provisions on safety, risk and food in this area.

The main areas of use of food considered potentially using nanotechnology are:

agriculture

food packaging

dietary supplements

food processing

Examples already using nanotechnology include intelligent or intelligent packaging that can slow down product deterioration or alert consumers or retailers when a product is unsafe or of good quality. Nutrient forms or "nano" vitamins work much faster in the body than conventional forms, so nano-calcium or iron enrichment is available, usually in the form of a drink. By applying the same principle, nanopesticides or nutrients can be used in agriculture to benefit crops. All food products contain nanostructures that are developed naturally or as part of processing. Examples include powdered ingredients, some of which will be in the nanoparticle size range, interfacial membranes, and foams and stabilizing emulsions. Controlling these structures helps improve product properties.

There are also some risks and concerns associated with the benefits. The current regulatory landscape was presented, as well as brief summaries of the risk and benefit assessments carried out. Finally, an extensive reading list is attached.