Genetically modified organisms (GMO’s) have been around for many years. Farmers chose the best animals or crops to breed together to yield higher quality products. The humble carrot was once white, but Dutch farmers interbred the carrots that contained the carotene pigment as they grew vegetables in the colours of the House of Orange, leading to the orange carrot we eat today. Consumers generally did not mind produce that was genetically modified by farmers as the process was natural. Recently, however, food manufacturers are exploring the use of nanotechnology and food. Nanotechnology could improve the appearance and taste of foods while keeping them fresher for longer. Unfortunately, however, not many people are aware of the use of nanotechnology in food.There is no requirement for manufacturers to present information about modified foods on labels, yet the nanoparticles are so small, they can enter cells and parts of the body which does not occur with normal food products. The health and safety of consumers is the number one priority of manufacturers, therefore, they should be made aware of the content of the food they are eating; this has been requested to Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ).
Professor Thomas Faunce of Australian National University’s Medical School, has pointed out that “nanoparticles have unusual toxicities,” thus authorities should carry out appropriate regulates before a there is a major public health crisis due to “nanoparticles causing toxicity in people.”
The European Parliament has passed legislation which has made it compulsory for food manufacturers to indicate if any nanoparticles are present in the product. In Australia, the requirements for foods produced with nanotechnology are under review by the FSANZ. All products containing nanoparticles shall undergo a safety assessment and may require specific labels. At the end of the day, the consumers are the first main concern, so the food industry will ensure all their needs are met and the food consumed will be safe and labelled to allow consumers to make informed decisions.
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Reference:
http://www.ausfoodnews.com.au/2009/03/30/nanotechnology-use-in-food-creates-a-stir.html
