The European Commission (EC) has solicited feedback on its proposed definition of the term “nanomaterial.” In response to a European Parliament request, the EC’s draft recommendation recognizes the need for a definition “at the global level, to serve as a basis also for EU regulation and implementing measures and instruments.”

The proposal defines a nanomaterial as that material which meets at least one
of the following criteria: (i) it consists of particles with one or more external
dimensions in the size range of 1 nanometer to 100 nanometers for more than
1 percent of their size distribution; (ii) it has internal or surface structures in
one or more dimensions in the size range of 1 nanometer to 100 nanometers;
or (iii) it has a specific surface area by volume greater than 60 square meters
by per cubic centimeter, excluding materials consisting of particles with a size
smaller than 1 nanometer. Comments may be electronically submitted to the
EC by November 19, 2010.

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For decades, manufacturers, distributors and retailers at every link in the food chain have come to Shook, Hardy & Bacon to partner with a legal team that understands the issues they face in today's evolving food production industry. Shook attorneys work with some of the world's largest food, beverage and agribusiness companies to establish preventative measures, conduct internal audits, develop public relations strategies, and advance tort reform initiatives.

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