nanomaterial
Natural or manufactured material which contains miniscule single units typically measuring between 1 and 100 nanometers. A nanometer is one-billionth of a meter (a human hair is 80,000-100,000 nanometers wide)
A nanomaterial is a material made of very small particles, typically so tiny that they are measured in nanometres (one billionth of a metre). Because of their small size, nanomaterials can behave differently from larger particles, for example in how they are absorbed by the body or interact with cells. They may be used in food additives, packaging, supplements, or agricultural products.
EFSA works on nanomaterials by assessing whether their unique properties could pose risks to human or animal health. It evaluates how nanomaterials behave in food, how they are absorbed and processed in the body, and whether they could cause harmful effects. EFSA also develops guidance on how nanomaterials should be tested. Our scientific advice helps EU authorities decide if nanomaterials can be safely used in food and under what conditions, ensuring consumer protection.