The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre has highlighted a recent conference organised by the European branch of the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI-Europe) on the outlook and challenges of nanotechnology in food packaging.
Among the presentations was one given by JRC on the use of nanomaterials in food packaging and the challenges that presents. The presentation discussed that nanotechnology developments will need to be covered under existing regulatory frameworks; and that food applications of nanotechnologies would come under existing risk assessment and approval processes in Europe and other countries. While it said that existing models for risk assessment are applicable, it suggested that some modifications may be needed in testing methodologies.
According to the JRC the main challenges include the availability of definitions, validated methods for detection and characterisation, and assessment of hazards, exposures and safety. It noted that an EFSA Scientific Opinion adopted in 2011 provides guidance on risk assessment issues. The JRC said the main safety concerns relate to insoluble, persistent and/or reactive nanoparticles.
The European Commission also gave a presentation on regulatory issues in the field of nanomaterials used in food contact applications and the consultant TNO a presentation on the implications for risk assessment of nanomaterials in food contact materials.Fonte: ChemicalWatch
