Nanotech Spices Up Food Industry
Business & Legal Reports - 11/22/2006
Currently, there are about 150 applications of nanotechnology in the food industry, according to Cientifica, a provider of business and technology nano-services. This fact and many others relating to nanotechnology and food were reported in a new survey sponsored by the Pew Charitable Trusts and the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.
Nanotechnology is the ability to measure, see, manipulate, and manufacture things usually between 1 and 100 nanometers in diameter. A nanometer is one-billionth of a meter.
With the use of nanomaterials food will be wrapped in smart safety packaging that can detect spoilage or harmful contaminants. Nanotechnology can also be used to adjust the taste and nutrient value of food, block harmful cholesterol from entering the bloodstream, reduce pesticide use, and improve plant and animal breeding.
According to one of its authors, the goal of Nanotechnology in Agriculture and Food Production is to develop an early understanding of "what is on the nano-agrifood horizon."
The benefits of nanotechnology in the food industry will likely be accelerated if critical information is provided as soon as possible. Questions of importance include:
Which nano-engineering food products will appear on the market over the next several years?
What are the potential benefits and risks?
Who will be affected?
How can consumers become engaged early on?
The authors hope the report will provide a starting point for future discussions, particularly those involving the U.S. Department of Agriculture, EPA, and the Food and Drug Administration.
The report is available at nanotechproject.org. |
