Consumer sceptical about the use of nanotechnology in food are more likely to look on it favourably if they percieve a “real benefit” to them, according to the UK’s Food Standards Agency.
Research from the FSA found that the acceptance of the technology was conditional – with consumers more willing to accept its use to reduce the salt or fat content of foods, without adversely affecting taste or texture. However, they were less interested in the use of nanotechnology to develop novel flavours and textures.
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The study followed the House of Lords report into nanotechnology, which found that a greater understanding of consumer attitudes towards nanotechnology was required.
According to the FSA study, consumers are seeking transparency and greater understanding of when nanotechnology is used in food. They said they wanted a register of foods that use nanotechnologies established by a body independent from industry and government as well as an N label on all nanotech foods.
However, many of those participating in the study said that consumers might not use or understand this information without complementary education and awareness raising.
Commenting on the research FSA chief scientist Andrew Wadge said: “Although consumers may be sceptical about the motives behind the introduction of nanotechnology in food, they are more likely to look more favourably on its use when they perceive a real benefit to them. I believe it’s for regulators and the industry to be transparent and to work together to explain to people what nanotechnology is and how it can be used in food.”
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By GlobalDataWhile consumers may be open to the possibility of the use of nanotechnology in food, the Soil Association said that there are still “significant uncertainties surrounding the health and environmental risks posed by some nanoparticles”.
Emma Hockridge, head of policy for the organic certification body, suggested the government should stop “wasting precious public money” on researching the safety of this technology, it should focus on real solutions to the obesity crisis instead of wasting time discussing low fat nano-choc bars.”
