Safety aspects of nanotechnology applications in food packaging

Although the application of nanotechnology provides numerous advantages related to food safety and quality, at the same time it may present a potential risk not only to human health, but can affect animals and the environment as well. Recent studies have shown that indeed there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that nanoparticles may have toxicological effects on biological systems. Food-contact materials (FCMs) are already on the market in some countries, therefore more data about the safety of engineered nanotechnology materials and nanoproducts affecting human health are necessary in the future to ensure adequate regulation and their useful application for FCMs. (C) 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.