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Article in LT
sheds light on future challenges in the nano food and
packaging sector
Other topics:
Nanotech Energy Saving Coatings
Nanotechnology Now
July 28th, 2008
Nanotechnology in Packaging
Companies in the food and packaging sector have long
recognized the potential of nanoparticles for the extension
of the shelf life of perishable products. The antimicrobial
properties displayed e.g. by nano silver can be integrated
in a variety of packaging devices. If these substances are
contained within the matrix of the packaging and therefore
immobilised, they do not represent a health risk to
consumers.
Nano-Inside vs. Nano-Outside
However, packages that have been modified in such a way are
in direct contact with food and are therefore an especially
delicate topic for consumers. From a consumer's point of
view it is of central relevance to differentiate between "nano
inside" and "nano outside". Especially the nano inside
category is being regarded as critical by consumers, because
it means that the nanotechnology itself is ingested via food
products. "Nano outside" - including most packaging devices
- is perceived to be less problematic, because the
nanoparticles are not internalised in this case. |
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In order to gain the trust of consumers in
the use of nanoparticles in packaging it must be proved that
those substances cannot migrate from the packaging into the
product. Critical cases might be the so called "active
packages", where an interaction between the two components
is actually intended.
Open Communication
Although - especially in the food sector - testing
procedures are very strict and basically no harm for
consumers need to be assumed, many producers and retailers
still take a very critical stance on the topic of
declaration, and it is not clear yet what a declaration
should look like in details, also considering the limited
space available on product packaging. However, it is this
lack of transparency paired with uncertainties about the
need for specific legal regulations that is fuelling
scepticism about nanotechnological packaging solutions among
consumers.
The LT article highlights first attempts of the Swiss
Retailer's Association (IG-DHS) with the aim of increasing
transparency for consumers by means of a Code of Conduct.
The author also proposes a concept for a dialogue platform
for the food and packaging industry in order to openly
discuss the topic and develop broadly accepted measures. |
