Advances and challenges for the use of engineered nanoparticles in food contact materials

• Nanotechnology has great potential in the food industry.
• Uncertainty surrounds the migration of nanoparticles from packaging into food.
• Non-metal nanoparticles may be a less toxic alternative to metal nanoparticles.
• Nanopackaging developments must be accompanied by human exposure assessment.

The use of nanotechnology in the food industry has great potential, particularly in the area of food packaging. This paper looks at recent advances and industry challenges in relation to the use of metal and non-metal engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in food packaging to grant active and intelligent properties. A particular focus will be placed on risk assessment strategies and policy developments associated with the use of nanotechnology in food contact materials (FCMs). The absence of a regulatory framework for NP FCMs has been highlighted as a drawback for the development of nanoparticle FCMs. To aid the understanding of nanotechnology in the area of FCMs, a NP specific exposure framework providing prompt risk assessment could be invaluable to industry, consumers and regulatory bodies.