Study Outlines Challenges for Nanotechnology Use in Foods and Agriculture
A recent Food Policy article titled “Implications of nanotechnology growth in food and agriculture in OECD countries” describes how nanomaterials and ingredients are currently being used in foods, food packaging and agriculture in Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries and outlines potential challenges that could affect the industry’s growth, health and safety issues and public acceptance.
In Canada, commercially available nano products include diet and nutritional supplements, energy drinks and food storage containers. Israeli companies are using nanotechnology to produce canola oil and calcium- and vitamin D- fortified milk. South Korean consumers can purchase their food in nano-silver food containers and can also find nanomaterials used in baby bottles, cutting boards, frying pans, salad bowls, water purifiers, and produce cleaners. In the United States, nanoparticles can be found in fortified fruit juice, diet beverages, food storage, health supplements, bottles, and water purifiers. Nano-herbicides, nano-pesticides and “nonporous zeolites to slow the release and increase efficiency of fertilizers” are also apparently in use in OECD countries.
The author identifies as challenges (i) maintaining the sector’s growth and move toward commercialization, (ii) health and environmental risks, and (iii) public acceptance. As to the latter, the article calls for “public participation and a well-designed risk communication strategy” to increase acceptance, noting that the rejection of genetically modified (GM) foods and crops in OECD countries “provides an illustration of what needs to be avoided.” With public awareness of nanotechnology still limited, researchers have apparently emphasized delivering appropriate messages, responding to consumer concerns and using the right messenger: “a message from a distrusted authority may increase consumer aversion.” Some have also called for the industry to “proactively communicate transparently on the use of nanotechnology in food.” Still, blanket labeling is seen as something to be avoided.
