Nanotechnology is a field of applied sciences and technologies involving the control of matter at the atomic and molecular scale, normally below 100 nanometres. Nanomaterials may exhibit different physical and chemical properties compared with the same substances at normal scale, such as increased chemical reactivity due to greater surface area.
Nanotechnologies enable the management of food ingredients on a molecular level. Nanotechnology products could have a substantial impact on the food and feed sector in the future, potentially offering benefits for industry and the consumer, although possible risks need to be considered. Companies and institutes worldwide are currently researching and developing applications in fields such as the treatment of the mechanical and sensorial properties of food – for instance to achieve changed taste or texture – and modified nutritional value. Nanotechnology may also be used in food packaging, for instance to ensure better protection or to detect how fresh food is. The specific properties and characteristics of nanomaterials need to be considered for any potential health risks.
Activities
EFSA’s Scientific Committee provides scientific advice on how to assess applications from food operators to use (engineered) nanomaterials in food additives, enzymes, flavourings, food contact materials, novel foods, food supplements, feed additives and pesticides. The work considers the risks of nanomaterials and nano particles that might be present in the food chain, for human and animal health. In the future, this advice will be extended to the assessment of the environmental impact of nano particles.
EFSA’s scientific panels will consider this advice from the Scientific Committee in their safety assessments of specific nanomaterials, for instance in the areas of food additives, novel foods and food contact materials.
This advice will also be taken into account by EFSA’s Nano Network, which furthers cooperation and networking between EFSA and Member States on nanoscience and nanotechnology in relation to food and feed safety risk assessments. The network facilitates the exchange of information and expertise, enhances dialogue and builds mutual understanding of risk assessment principles between EFSA and the Member States. We publish an annual report of the network’s activities.
Latest
Two new guidance documents from EFSA’s Scientific Committee will help to further clarify how EFSA’s scientists approach the assessment of nanomaterials in the food and feed chain:
- Guidance on risk assessment of nanomaterials in the food and feed chain: animal and human health – provides a roadmap to progressively roll out and assist the assessment of nanomaterials.
- Guidance on technical requirements for regulated food and feed product applications to establish the presence of small particles including nanoparticles – relates to conventional materials that contain a fraction of small particles but don’t meet the definition of engineered nanomaterials (see below).
Both documents also set down data and information requirements for applicants when submitting materials for assessment as part of EU market authorisation procedures, e.g. for use as food additives or food contact materials.
Milestones
- 2021May
EFSA holds a scientific colloquium on “A coordinated approach to assessing the human health risks of microplastics and nanoplastics in food”.
- 2020November
EFSA publishes an external report on existing guidance and other published sources related to the environmental risk assessment of nanomaterials. The report will form the basis for EFSA future guidance on assessing environmental risks from the application of nanoscience and nanotechnology in the food and feed chain.
- July
EFSA asks for feedback on draft technical guidance on technical requirements for regulated food and feed product applications to establish the presence of small particles including nanoparticles.
- 2018July
New guidance comes out on assessing the safety for humans and animals of nanoscience and nanotechnology applications. It gives practical advice on the testing and methods to apply.
- 2016June
EFSA’s scientists provide a state of the science overview on microplastics and nanoplastics as contaminants in food.
- 2011May
A guidance document explains how EFSA’s Panels should assess potential risks related to certain food-related uses of nanotechnology.
- 2010
EFSA’s Advisory Forum establishes the Nano Network to develop cooperation and networking with Member States on nanoscience.
- 2009March
EFSA’s Scientific Committee publishes a scientific opinion on nanoscience and nanotechnologies in relation to food and feed safety.
EFSA's role
Since 2006 EFSA has been following developments in nanotechnology within its remit – providing independent scientific advice and technical support to risk managers – including reviewing the current state of knowledge and latest developments in nanotechnology regarding food and feed.
EU framework
The European Union is taking an “integrated, safe and responsible approach” to the development of nanotechnologies. This includes:
- Creating the European Union Observatory for Nanomaterials (EUON), which among other things monitors safety issues and engages in dialogue with national authorities, stakeholders and citizens.
- Reviewing and adapting EU laws e.g. the European Commission recommendation on the definition of a nanomaterial.
- Nanotechnology – European Commission, DG Health and Consumers
- Research topics: Nanotechnology – Joint Research Centre