House of Lords Creates Subcommittee on Nanotechnology and Food

The House of Lords Science & Technology Committee has created a subcommittee to investigate the use of nanotechnology in the food sector. Led by Lord John Richard Krebs, the inquiry will focus on food products, additives and supplements; food contact packaging; food processing; animal feed; pesticides and fertilizers; and food containers and utensils. “We intend to highlight those areas where our understanding of the use of nanotechnologies in food needs the most urgent attention, allowing us to take action to ensure appropriate
steps are taken,” Krebs was quoted as saying. See Foodbev.com, February 4, 2009.

The subcommittee has also issued a call for evidence seeking input on a range of issues involving (i) the state of the science and its current
use in the food sector; (ii) health and safety; (iii) regulatory framework; and (iv) public engagement and consumer information. The deadline for written submissions is March 13, 2009. See House of Lords Press Release, February 3, 2009.