Nanotech in Food, Beverage and Related Packaging...

Nanotech in Food, Beverage and

Related Packaging.

Applications and Markets to 2015

© IoN Publishing, 2011

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1 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................... 6

2 NANO IN THE FOOD AND BEVERAGE INDUSTRIES ................................................................... 8

2.1 Foods, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics and their Packaging ........................................................ 8

2.2 Smart Packaging ..................................................................................................................... 11

2.2.1 An Overview of Smart Packaging - ‘Active’ and ‘Intelligent’ ............................................ 11

2.2.2 Applications of Nanotechnology in Active and Intelligent Packaging .............................. 13

3 KEY NANOTECHNOLOGIES IN FOODS AND PACKAGING ......................................................... 16

3.1 NANOPARTICLES .................................................................................................................... 18

3.1.1 The Market for Nanoparticles ........................................................................................... 18

3.1.2 Key Players in Manufacturers and End Users ................................................................... 19

3.1.3 Key Players in Nanomaterials suppliers ............................................................................ 19

3.2 NANOCOMPOSITES AND PACKAGING ................................................................................... 20

3.2.1 Market for nanocomposites ............................................................................................. 20

3.2.2 Key players ........................................................................................................................ 22

3.2.2.1 Nanocomposites suppliers ..................................................................................... 22

3.3 NANOCAPSULES ..................................................................................................................... 23

3.3.1 Market for nanocapsules .................................................................................................. 23

3.3.2 Key players ........................................................................................................................ 25

3.3.2.1 Manufacturers and End Users ................................................................................ 25

3.4 NANOPOROUS MATERIALS .................................................................................................... 26

3.4.1.1 Application manufacturers ..................................................................................... 28

3.5 NANO FILMS AND COATINGS ................................................................................................. 29

3.5.1 Market for Nanocoatings .................................................................................................. 29

4 THE MARKET FOR NANOTECHNOLOGY IN FOOD AND DRINK ................................................. 31

4.1 Nanotechnology in food production ...................................................................................... 31

4.2 Food processing and safety ................................................................................................... 33

4.3 Food packaging ...................................................................................................................... 34

4.4 Key applications and market opportunities to 2015 ............................................................. 36

4.5 Global market for nano-enabled food and beverage packaging ................................................. 36

4.5 Market for nanomaterials in food and drink ......................................................................... 41

4.6 Nanosensors ........................................................................................................................... 41

4.7 Nanoencapsulation ................................................................................................................ 42

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4.8 Nanocoatings ......................................................................................................................... 43

4.9 Nanocomposites .................................................................................................................... 45

4.10 Nanoporous membranes ....................................................................................................... 46

4.11 Key Players ............................................................................................................................. 47

5 TECHNOLOGY PROVIDERS: PROCESSING AND SAFETY ........................................................... 48

5.1 Aquamarijn Micro Filtration bv .............................................................................................. 50

5.2 Cornell University, Department of Textiles and Apparel ....................................................... 50

5.3 Iota NanoSolutions Limited .................................................................................................... 51

5.4 Nanopool GmbH .................................................................................................................... 51

5.5 Leatherhead Food International Ltd ...................................................................................... 51

5.6 Nano Hygiene Coatings Limited ............................................................................................. 52

5.7 Nanosens ................................................................................................................................ 52

5.8 Protista International AB........................................................................................................ 53

5.9 University of Glasgow, Department of Electronics and Electrical Engineering ..................... 53

5.10 University of London, Queen Mary, Department of Materials .............................................. 54

5.11 University of Melbourne, Particulate Fluids Processing Group ............................................. 54

5.12 University of Surrey, School of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences ..................................... 55

5.13 University of Twente, Faculty of Science & Technology ........................................................ 55

5.14 University of Wales Bangor, The Institute for Bioelectronic and Molecular

Microsystems ..................................................................................................................................... 56

6 TECHNOLOGY PROVIDERS: PACKAGING ................................................................................ 58

6.1 Antaria Limited ....................................................................................................................... 60

6.2 Crown Bio Technology Limited .............................................................................................. 61

6.3 CVD Technologies Limited ..................................................................................................... 61

6.4 EVAL ....................................................................................................................................... 62

6.5 Ingenia Technology Limited ................................................................................................... 62

6.6 InMat ...................................................................................................................................... 62

6.7 Nano Scale Surface Systems, Inc. ........................................................................................... 63

6.8 NGF Europe ............................................................................................................................ 63

6.9 nGimat.................................................................................................................................... 63

6.10 PChem Associates .................................................................................................................. 64

6.11 New Jersey Institute of Technology, Department of Chemistry and Environmental

Sciences .............................................................................................................................................. 64

6.12 Pennsylvania State University, Food Science Department .................................................... 65

6.13 Umicore Nanomaterials ......................................................................................................... 65

6.14 University of South Carolina, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry ............................. 65

6.15 University of California Berkeley, EECS .................................................................................. 66

6.16 University of Strathclyde, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry ................................ 66

7 TECHNOLOGY PROVIDERS: DELIVERY AND RELEASE .............................................................. 68

7.1 AC Serendip Limited ............................................................................................................... 69

7.2 Aquanova ............................................................................................................................... 69

7.3 Nanomi B.V. ........................................................................................................................... 70

7.4 Nutralease .............................................................................................................................. 70

7.5 RBC Life Sciences .................................................................................................................... 70

7.6 Salvona Technologies ............................................................................................................. 71

7.7 Vivamer .................................................................................................................................. 73

8 REGULATIONS AND CONSUMER SAFETY ............................................................................... 73

8.1 The USA .................................................................................................................................. 74

8.2 The UK .................................................................................................................................... 76

8.2.1 UK Food Safety Agency research projects. ....................................................................... 77

8.2.2 Nanotechnologies and Food Discussion Group. ............................................................... 77

8.2.3 Consumer engagement and public attitudes ........................................................................ 78

8.3 Europe .................................................................................................................................... 78

8.3.1 Risk assessment guidance. ................................................................................................ 78

8.3.2 Approach to Regulation by the European Food Safety Authority .................................... 79

8.4 Further reading: ..................................................................................................................... 80

9 GLOSSARY OF TERMS ........................................................................................................... 82

Global Market and Applications for Nanotechnology in the Food and Drink Industries

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1 INTRODUCTION Through the exploitation of new functionalities, nanotechnologies can help solve some of the

key challenges facing industry and society today. Nanoscale technology is not new, indeed some

companies have been exploiting what we now call nanomaterials for over 100 years, and

polymer scientists, for example, consider colloid science as a nanoscale technology. What is new

is an improved understanding of what happens at the nanoscale, achieved through recent

discoveries in measurement and microscopy techniques. This has resulted in a global race to

engineer and exploit these properties in a wide range of market sectors.

Nanotechnology can essentially be described as manipulating the attributes of matter at the

nanoscale to create products with new functionalities at the macroscale. Nanotechnology is not

a market per se, rather, it is an enabling technology for both the development of new

opportunities within existing markets, and the creation of entirely new markets.

Nanoscale materials are defined as having one or more dimensions between ~1nm and 100nm,

and attributes relating to one or more of the specific properties imparted by in the main, high

surface area - and hence high surface activity, and quantum effects becoming dominant (such as

a change in the optical, magnetic, or electrical properties of a material).

Examples of nano applications in relation to the food and beverage industry include

encapsulation to enable improved stability of ingredients and the creation of novel textures and

tastes, engineered nanoparticles for controlled release of scents and flavours, nanostructured

materials for air and water filtration and purification, and nano-modified surfaces offering anti-

bacterial properties and dirt repellency.

Nano materials are generally manufactured using different techniques to those needed for bulk

materials, and generally require new manufacturing processes. To understand the properties of

nanomaterials, and to achieve quality control in their manufacture, new measurement

techniques and tools are also needed. Examples of non-destructive and in-line measurement

techniques that are under development include optical techniques such as polarimetry and

ellipsometry.

At present, there are few industries today currently not affected by the influence of

nanotechnology. In general, it promises more for less - smaller, cheaper, lighter and faster

devices with greater functionality, using fewer raw materials and consuming less energy; it

offers the promise of new business opportunities, new solutions to old problems and societal

benefits for the world at large.

Over the coming years and decades, nanotechnologies are set to make an enormous impact on

the manufacturing and service industries in many areas of life, from medicine to food to energy

generation. Just how large this impact will be is not easily quantifiable, but Lux Research have

placed the worldwide market for nanotechnology–related products at around $300 billion by


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2015. The market for nano in food products, estimated at US$4 million in 2006, is predicted to

range between US$6 billion by 2012 and >US $20 billion by 20201.

For these predicted benefits to be realised, the products and processes that are renewed or

made possible by nanotechnology will need to reach individual users. This entails a process of

commercialisation, moving from research though to technology development to actual

products. However, there are already at least several hundreds of products on the market based

on nanotechnologies and techniques and / or incorporating nanomaterials and

nanocomposites2, and many more are in the pipeline and can be expected to enter the market

in the near future, so the outlook for nano-based products, and the industries adopting them, is

expected to be rosy.

1 Quoted by Qasim Choudry, CSL in 2009

2 http://www.nanotechproject.org/inventories/consumer/


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2 NANO IN THE FOOD AND BEVERAGE INDUSTRIES Working at the nanoscale is not new to the food and beverage sector, with various novel nano-

based phenomena already exploited in nutraceutical and functional food formulations,

manufacturing and processing. Colloid science, for example, has been applied to improvements

in the production of foodstuffs for a long time. This is because the components of most foods

and beverages that give them their characteristics are nanoscale in size (dairy products for

example), so in processing them, the manipulation of these ingredients at the nanoscale is to be

expected.

2.1 Foods, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics and their Packaging Whether a product is a food, a drink, a pharmaceutical drug or a cosmetic, whether it is ingested

or applied, so long as it enters the bloodstream, it will produce an effect on the human

organism. The line between these different groups is hard to draw, and we delude ourselves if

we think that they can be clearly compartmentalized. It is interesting to note that while

hospitals are focused on the treatment of patients using prescription drugs, very few consider

that treatment may be possible by monitoring / selecting appropriate foodstuffs - although

everything we ingest is a chemical to some degree or other, as it is made up of molecules that

are absorbed in the body. In fact, treatment through a professional nutritional analysis is an area

that is almost entirely ignored, in preference to treatment by drugs which, because of their

concentration of a single chemical, are often highly toxic.

Food companies themselves are increasingly aware of the medical component of their products,

from two viewpoints; one is that they increase sales on the one hand by offering enhanced

foodstuffs containing excess sugar, fats and salts that cause the body to behave in an addictive

fashion; and on the other hand they increasingly sell foods that counteract certain diseases

(vitamin and mineral deficiencies, assisting weight loss). So, many of the large food companies

have us captive on two counts – they create obesity and disease one the one hand, and offer

panaceas to disease on the other. Both avenues are highly profitable.

In essence, the implementation of scientific knowledge in commercial foodstuff production

could have much wider implications for the health of the population than is presently

acknowledged by the drug companies, politicians and the providers of healthcare, in the

improved treatment of disease - without drugs. Below is a table listing some of the applications

of nanotechnology in foods, from production to ingestion.

Nanotechnology is on the rise in the industry. According to a report by the Priority Metric

Group, nano-related food and beverage packaging sales have grown to over $4bn in 2009

and is forecasted to hit the $7bn mark by 2014.


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Market sub sector Nano applications

Food production - Anti-bacterial food preparation surface coatings

- Colloid stability improvements

Conservation - Preservatives, antioxidants etc

- Optimal environment emulation

- Lifespan extension

- Fridge food freshness maintenance

Packaging - Anti-counterfeit (tracking systems, smart packaging)

- Contamination prevention, freshness maintenance,

- Novel, brand-oriented packaging

- Freshness / shelf life indicators

- Speed check out enhancements

- Improved flexibility, durability, temperature/ moisture stability, barrier, anti-microbial properties

Novel and ‘Fashion’ Foods - Colour, scent, flavour, taste and texture enhancement

Health foods - Supplement encapsulation (vitamins, minerals etc)

- Enhanced bioavailability

- Reduction in salts, fats and sugars

- ‘Delivery systems’ (scents, flavours etc)

- Sprays

Agriculture - Soil remediation

- Water purification

- Pesticides

- Nanosensors

Table 1: Applications of nanoproducts in food related areas (Source: ION Publishing Ltd)

It is only in relatively recent times that novel technologies have come under investigation as

offering new functionalities and benefits as well as efficient delivery mechanisms for the food

and beverage industries and its components. For example, food researchers are gaining a

greater understanding of areas such as the mechanisms of targeted delivery, with a view to

optimizing the delivery of vitamins and minerals in food to benefit health; technologies related

to the creation of novel physical, visual and sensory effects for competitive advantage.

Potential applications of nanotechnology includes nano-encapsulation of flavours or nutrients to

suit consumer preference or health requirements; nanofilters that can remove toxins; food

constituents that can be made to alter their colour; flavour modifications that can be created by

using differently-‘twisted’ molecules (for example, the direction of chirality of a molecule may

determine whether the flavour imparted is ‘lemon’ or ‘orange’); packaging that can keep

perishable contents fresher for longer, or detect when contents are spoiling and changing colour

to warn consumers. In essence, the understanding of food materials and food processing at the

nanoscale is increasingly recognized as vital in the creation of new and better food products,

and also to minimizing waste from increasing shelf life and visual indicators of freshness. No

more sell-by dates!


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Areas where nanotechnology applications are currently close to market or already available

include:

Enhanced the delivery of nutraceuticals and bioactive compounds in functional

foods providing health benefits ;

Enhanced flavours, texture and delivery of bioactive functional ingredients;

Enhanced solubility – the smaller the component particle, the more soluble;

Controlled release for in-situ flavour and colour modification of products;

Improved bioavailability of vitamins and minerals for medical and sporting

applications;

Protection of the stability of micronutrients and bioactive compounds during

processing, storage and distribution;

Encapsulation of fats and oils for reduced calorie products

Nano particulate salt for more flavour with less salt content

Current nano-based products include:

Organic nanoadditives

Inorganic nanoadditives

Foods with nanoparticles offering specific additional functionalities or novelty

Nanosensors for food quality control and smart packaging

Nanoparticles for toxin scrubbing and to slow down ripening

Nanocoatings and nanofilms for protecting kitchenware and foodstuffs against

pathogenic bacteria

Packaging for ambient temperature maintenance

Nanosprays of bioluminescent indicators in antibacterial defence systems

Technologies include

Incorporation of nanosized ingredients and additives


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Processing of food at the nanoscale

Nanoencapsulation of ingredients, additives and supplements (based on micelles and

liposomes)

Manufactured mineral nanoparticles as additives and supplements

Incorporation of nano sunscreens and other modifications in improved food packaging

2.2 Smart Packaging Developing smart packaging to optimise product shelf-life has been the goal of many

companies. Such packaging systems would be able to self-repair minor damage, respond to

environmental conditions (e.g. temperature and moisture changes), and alert the customer if

the food is contaminated or ‘off’and keep products fresher for longer. Nanotechnology can offer

many possible solutions, for example, modifying the permeation behaviour of packaging foils,

increasing barrier properties (mechanical, thermal, chemical, and microbial), improving

mechanical and heat-resistance properties, developing active antimicrobial and antifungal

surfaces, and sensing as well as signalling microbiological and biochemical changes.The financial

outlook for nanotechnology-enabled packaging looks buoyant. The current packaging market is

around 4 billion USD by today. Within this, the smart packaging industry is growing particularly

fast, borne out by research undertaken by Frost and Sullivan. They found that today’s

consumers continue to demand much more from packaging in terms of protecting the quality,

freshness and safety of foods, as well as convenience. They conclude that this is one of the main

reasons behind the increased interest in innovative methods of packaging.

2.2.1 An Overview of Smart Packaging - ‘Active’ and ‘Intelligent’3

Active, controlled and intelligent packaging for food and beverages helps protect brands (anti-

theft, tamper evidence and product authenticity mechanisms),helps track and trace products

through the supply chain, maintain and improve product quality, enhance the look, taste,

flavour and aroma of products, improve product safety, actively prevent spoilage and extend

shelf life. This includes packaging with moisture absorbers/adsorbents, carbon dioxide and

ethylene scavengers/emitters, flavour/odour absorbers and flavour-releasing film, temperature

control packaging, including self-heating/cooling cans, Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP),

intelligent packaging, freshness indicators, tamper evidence features, RFIDs, intelligent films,

etc.

The market for advanced packaging technology includes the food, beverage, pharma and beauty

industries, and other industry segments where freshness / perishability of the products are

important issues. Food and beverage however are the two largest segments which the active

3 Source: www.plastemart.com

http://www.plastemart.com/Plastic-Technical-Article.asp?LiteratureID=1679&Paper=global-active-smart-intelligent-packaging-food-beverages-trends-packaging-manufacturers


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and smart packaging technologies serve, as their products are prone to microbial attack, easily

change their physical and chemical texture when exposed to oxygen, and are subject to

stringent safety regulations.

Advanced packaging interacts internally (active packaging) and externally (intelligent packaging)

with the environment and enhances the visual appeal of the products.

.

Freshness indicators and time temperature indicators are the major product segment in smart

and intelligent packaging, and are commanding the largest share due to increased application in

the packaged food, ready-to-eat meal and frozen food category. Owing to an increase in urban

lifestyles and a growing global population, the demand for packaged, frozen, and ready-to-eat

food has witnessed a significant surge in recent times. With the demand for exotic fruits and

vegetables, meat products and frozen foods transcending geographical boundaries, the

packaging industry has been focusing on developing solutions that provide maximum food

security while maintaining nutritional value – all at competitive prices.

Active packaging is mainly used for food packaging, which enhances the food quality with

flavour, taste and colour. Intelligent packaging is used for both food and beverage packaging.

Out of the global market for advanced packaging, the contribution of the food sector is 51%,

while that of the beverage sector is 19%, together in total they represent 70% of the market

The increasing demand for fresh and quality packaged food, convenience, longer shelf life,

and hence increased profitability and less waste, is driving this market for advanced

packaging technology, which is expected to grow to US$23.474 mln in 2015, at an estimated

CAGR of 8.2% from 2010 to 2015, as per MarketsandMarkets.

Amongst all the packaging market segments, MAP (modified atmosphere packaging)

commands the largest share in terms of value (approximately 54%), while intelligent

packaging leads in terms of growth.

Active and smart packaging technology offer tremendous potential to fulfill the growing

demand of food safety in various applications, including the dairy product, meat and poultry,

and ready-to-eat meal segment. In active packaging, oxygen scavengers and moisture

absorbers form the two largest product segments. Both are estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8

and 11.9% respectively. In terms of value, active packaging technology contributes to

approximately 35% of the global advanced packaging technology.


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New technologies such as intelligent packaging, smart packaging, active, and modified

atmosphere packaging are replacing traditional methods such as canning, and the industry is

expected to witness significant growth in the years to come.

Similar to the other aspects in the food industry, this market is also highly regulated with strict

guidelines for packaging materials, testing, and labeling.

2.2.2 Applications of Nanotechnology in Active and Intelligent Packaging

In active and intelligent packaging, nanomaterials have various applications. In active packaging,

the nanostructures can enhance the vapour permeability of polymers, and have various

applications, for example, in fruit and vegetable packaging. Nanosensors categorized under

intelligent packaging can help in detecting pathogens, toxins, and chemicals. With nanosensors

incorporated inside the packaging, the consumer can easily know the status of food inside, as

the sensors can inform consumers about the food’s freshness level and nutrition status.

North America is the largest market for active and smart packaging technology with 35.1% of

the market. Europe forms the second largest market due to the demand for sustainable

packaging and stringent regulations. Currently, market players are focusing on development of

new products, and this accounts for the highest share of the total competitive developments in

advanced packaging technology for food and beverage from June 2008 to September 2010. The

greatest developments are seen in the oxygen scavenger product segment.

In 2013 the global market for active, controlled and intelligent packaging for food and beverages

is expected to reach US$23.6 bn, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.9%. Controlled

packaging is expected to have the largest share of the market in 2013, approximately 40.5%,

with active packaging is estimated at approximately 27%. The figure below shows the growth in

active, controlled and intelligent packaging between 2004 and 2013 (BCC Research).


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Figure 1. Growth in active, controlled and intelligent packaging between 2004 and 2013 (BCC

Research)


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Some Nanotechnologies and their Applications in Foods and Packaging

Clay Nanoparticles Improve Plastic Packaging for Food Products

Chemical giant Bayer produces a transparent plastic film (called Durethan) containing nanoparticles of

clay. The nanoparticles are dispersed throughout the plastic and are able to block oxygen, carbon

dioxide and moisture from reaching fresh meats or other foods. The nanoclay also makes the plastic

lighter, stronger and more heat-resistant.

Embedding Nanocrystals in Plastic Improves Barrier Properties

Until recently, industry’s quest to package beer in plastic bottles (for cheaper transport) was

unsuccessful because of spoilage and flavour problems. Nanocor, a subsidiary of Amcol International

Corp., is producing nanocomposites for use in plastic beer bottles that give the brew a six-month shelf-

life. By embedding nanocrystals in plastic, researchers have created a molecular barrier that helps

prevent the escape of oxygen. Nanocor and Southern Clay Products are working on a plastic beer

bottle that may increase shelf-life to 18 months.

Nanotechnology for Antimicrobial Packaging and ‘Active Packaging’

Kodak, best known for producing camera film, is using nanotech to produce antimicrobial packaging

for food products, and ‘active packaging,’ which absorbs oxygen, thereby keeping food fresh.

Embedded Sensors in Food Packaging and ‘Electronic Tongue’ Technology

Scientists at Kraft, Rutgers University and the University of Connecticut, are working on nano-particle

films and other packaging with embedded sensors that will detect food pathogens. Called “electronic

tongue” technology, the sensors can detect substances in parts per trillion and trigger a colour change

in the packaging to alert the consumer if a food has become contaminated or if it has begun to spoil.

Using a Nanotech Bioswitch in ‘Release on Command’ Food Packaging

Researchers in the Netherlands are going one further to develop intelligent packaging that will release

a preservative if the food within begins to spoil. This “release on command” preservative packaging is

operated by means of a bioswitch developed through nanotechnology.

Using Food Packaging Sensors in Defence and Security Applications

With present technologies, testing for microbial food-contamination takes two to seven days and the

sensors are too big to be transported easily. Several groups of researchers in the US are developing

biosensors that can detect pathogens quickly and easily, as crucial in the event of a terrorist attack on

the food supply. With USDA and National Science Foundation funding, researchers at Purdue

University are working to produce a hand-held sensor capable of detecting a specific bacteria

instantaneously from any sample, and have created a start-up company called BioVitesse to market

the product.

Various sources


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3 KEY NANOTECHNOLOGIES IN FOODS AND PACKAGING Nanomaterials and their associated manufacturing and processing technologies are the key

enablers of the “nanotechnology industry”. They exhibit features only present at the nanoscale

that potentially offer performance enhancements over existing bulk materials.

Nano application area Product(s)

Nano nutraceuticals - Nano Synergy, energy booster (Vitamins, Calcium, B-Complex)

- Lycopene, carotenoids and phytosterol supplements from BASF

Nano agro chemicals, nanopesticides - Nano fungicides

- Nano plant growth regulators (Syngenta)

- Encapsulated pesticides that are activated when ingested by insects (BASF, Bayer Crop Science, Monsanto and Syngenta) http://nanoall.blogspot.com/2011/01/smart-nano-pesticides.html

Filtration technologies - Nanosieves and filters

Nanobioluminescent analytical systems - Luciferase-based kit s to control microbial contamination (3M)

Nanosensors for food analysis - Nanostructured electrochemical systems

- Nanoparticles for optical detection of spoiling

Visual freshness indicator in packaging - Various, including silver nanolayers reacting with hydrogen sulphide and titanium dioxide acting with oxygento produce colour changes (Modified Atmosphere Packaging)

Maintenance of freshness in fruit and vegetables Active gold, silver and other nanoparticles for scrubbing ethylene from surrounding environment (Extra Fresh)

Ink jet printed oxygen indicators On demand, customized printing for visual and/or optically readable, low cost indicators attached to or printed on the packaging material, offering

- tamper-evidence of hermetically sealed food/pharmaceutical packages

- evaluation of remaining shelf-life of packed product

- evaluation of use-by date of perishable products in opened packages in the home

Nanocleaning - Non-toxic nanoemulsions (Envirosystems Inc.)

- ‘NanoCheck’ algae growth prevention (Altair Nanotechnologies Ltd.)

Silver deodorant for refrigerators - Silver nano particles in contact with bacteria suppress their respiration. This adversely affects bacteria’s cellular metabolism and inhibits cell growth. (Daewoo Electronics, Samsung)

Table 2: Nanotchnologies in food and food-related products (Source: ION Publishing)


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The following core nanotechnologies and nanomaterials are reviewed in relation to food and

beverages and the market, and including packaging and ‘devices’ (such as filters, specific to that

market):

Nanoparticles

Nanocomposite materials

Nanoporous materials

Nanocapsules

Nanoporous materials

Nanofilms and coatings

A number of these are subsets of nanoparticles/nanopowders, but can usefully be considered

independently as market opportunities. The methodology used in this report is shown in Fig 1.

Figure 2: Methodology

The forecasting method is the technology adoption life cycle. The market penetration of

nanomaterials is based on product uptake by innovators, early adopters and the early majority

of users. An estimate of the market has been made based on the growth of the application

market and diffusion of the nanomaterial / nanotechnology in that market. 2.5% market

diffusion is acceptable for early innovators in a technology adoption life cycle. The product

diffusion range has been limited to 0.1- 1% of the total market. A schematic diagram in Fig 2

depicts this forecasting methodology:

Figure 3: Product

Diffusion model used in

Forecasting (Source:

ION Publishing).


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3.1 NANOPARTICLES Nanoparticles can be defined as particles of less than 100nm in diameter which exhibit new or

enhanced, size-dependent properties (such as chemical reactivity and optical behaviour),

compared with larger particles of the same material. For example, titanium dioxide and zinc

oxide become transparent at the nanoscale, are able to absorb and reflect UV light, and have

found applications not only in novel sunscreens, but also in UV-resistant packaging.

Because nanoparticles have large surface areas and consequently high surface reactivity they

provide enormous flexibility for is situ applications. They can be made of a wide range of

materials, the most common being ceramic, which are split into metal oxide ceramics and

silicate nanoparticles (generally in the form of nanoclays). Their importance lies in the fact that

they can be designed and manufactured with physical properties tailored to meet the needs of

the specific target application. Nanoparticles can be arranged into layers on surfaces, providing

a large and reactive surface area, relevant to a range of potential applications, including sensing.

3.1.1 The Market for Nanoparticles

Nanoparticles are available as dry powders or as liquid dispersions. Some important

nanoparticulate materials in food and packaging are simple metal oxides, such as silica, alumina,

titania, zinc oxide, iron oxide, cerium oxide, and zirconia. Silica and iron oxide nanoparticles have

been in the market for over half a century. Nanocrystalline titania, zinc oxide, cerium oxide, and

other oxides have entered the market more recently. Examples of relevant nanoparticle-based

applications are illustrated in Table 3 below:

Applications Food / Food preparation

Drink Packaging

Gold and other nanoparticles for scrubbing impurities

3

Titanium dioxide and other nanoparticles for dirt- and pathogen- repellant surfaces

1 1

Nanoparticulate capsules for the delivery of scents and flavours

2

Nanosilver, zinc oxide and cerium oxide as an antibacterial in maintaining freshness

1 1

Nanoparticles in tagging and tracking 2 2 1

Fluorescent biological labels 1

Table 3: Applications in Food, Drink and Packaging: Nanoparticles. 1. Already available on the

market 2. Awaiting marketability 3. Under development 4. Existing as concept (Source: ION

Publishing).


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3.1.2 Key Players in Manufacturers and End Users

Table 4 gives a list of end users and manufacturers of products incorporating nanoparticles for

use in the food, beverage and related packaging industries:

Company Food / Food preparation

Drink/ Drink Preparation

Packaging

Kodak, USA ●

Proctor and Gamble ● ● ●

Reckitt Benckiser ● ● ●

Unilever ● ● ●

Multisorb Technologies ●

Sealed Air Corporation ●

Sysco Corporation ● ● ●

Paksense Incorporated ●

Eastman Chemical Company ● ● ●

DuPont ● ● ●

M&G ●

Amcor Limited , Australia ●

Timestrip plc UK ● ●

Lanxess ●

Nanocor ●

Nycoa, USA ●

Honeywell, USA ●

PolyOne, Europe ●

NanoPolymer, Asia ●

Ube Industrie, Asia ●

Showa Denko, Asia ●

Nanocor, USA ●

Table 4: Application Manufacturers vs.Food, Bevergae and Related Packaging Industry Sectors:

Nanoparticles (Source: ION Publishing).

3.1.3 Key Players in Nanomaterials suppliers

Table 5 gives an overview of nano materials suppliers to food, beverage and related packaging

manufacturers:

Company

Food / Food preparation


Packaging

American Dye Source, Inc ●

Nanoshel ● ●


20

Elementis Specialties ●

PQ Corporation ● ●

InMat ●

JR Nanotech ● ● ●

Alpha Nanomaterials ●

Altair Nano ●

Nanogap ●

Nanograde ●

Nanopartz ●

Southern Clay ●

FCC International ●

Kunemine Industries ●

Alcoa ●

United Company Rusal ●

Alcan ●

Table 5: Nanomaterials Suppliers vs. Food Beverage and Related Packaging Industries (Source:

ION Publishing).

3.2 NANOCOMPOSITES AND PACKAGING Nanocomposites are the combination of two or more nanomaterials to create a material

designed for a specific purpose, which exhibits the best properties of each component.

Nanocomposites are an important use of nanoparticles, and their multifunctionality applies not

only to mechanical properties as they also offer optimized mechanical, optical and thermal

capabilities. In this context, nanoparticulate polymer composites are one of the key materials in

the future application of polymers in general. The various properties of polymers, for example,

stiffness, hardness, UV-stability, bio-stability and conductivity can be modified or enhanced by

using nanoparticles, and these properties are important for novel packaging applications.

3.2.1 Market for nanocomposites

Nanocomposite products on the market are to be generally found as fillers in a polymer matrix

for polypropylene, polyamides, polystyrenes, polymethylmethacrylate, polyamides, sebs,

polyanniline and resins. Companies offering nano-enhanced packaging for food and drink

include:


21

Examples of nanocomposite-based applications include polymer nanocomposites with increased

tensile strength, oxygen scavenging barrier materials and biodegradable nanocomposite

packaging. Nanocomposites are already penetrating a number of key packaging applications,

such as soft drinks, beer and food, driven by the improved barrier, strength and conductive

properties that they offer. Nanoclay-based composites have found application in packaging for

food and beverages as heat resistant and gas barrier films. Clay based nanocomposites are the

most interesting innovation area for composites and will probably represent the largest market

area over the next 10-15 years.

Making Packaging Biodegradable

Environmental waste problems caused by non-biodegradable petroleum-based plastic packaging have

been part of the public debate in many Western countries for several years. According to the US

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), an average American person produces around 726kg of waste

a year, in Mexico the common household produces even 30% more garbage than in the US. The UK

currently landfills 28m tons of waste every year, a number that is destined to double over the next 20

years.

Sajid Alavi, associate professor at the US Kansas State University, and his research team at the

Department of Grain Science and Industry have been developing bio-nanocomposite packaging films

for six years. The researchers' main focus is on the problem of non-biodegradability and the use of

valuable, scarce and non-renewable resources. As a solution, Sajid Alavi and his project partner

Xiaozhi Tang have developed a mixture of polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), starch, montmorillonite (MMT)

nano-clay and the plasticiser glycerol to create a biodegradable packaging film.

To overcome the poor mechanical properties of starch, the researchers have added nano-clay, glycerol

and PVOH to make the film both stretchable and sturdy. The second part of the research was the use of

‘extrusion processing’ a fast-continuous process that involves using screws to push material through a

long barrel or cylinder. The material gets melted, and the starch and the plasticiser get mixed with the

nano-clay. The materials emerge as a very well-integrated composite material, which has all the

different components equally dispersed. It helps to improve the property of the films. This technique is

relatively new. After the research was published, more and more people are researching the use of

extrusion for making nanocomposites.

In 2008, the researchers received a $0.5m grant from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA)

through the National Research Initiative (NRI) programme to make the film industrially relevant. The

three-year project has ended in August 2011 and according to Alavi they have made significant

progress.

According to Alavi, the advantages of the films are obvious; they are bio-degradable and

environmentally friendly, the materials are cost-effective and renewable and the processing method is

relatively simple. These types of packaging films are becoming very competitive as governments and

countries move further towards sustainability and environmental awareness. Companies are seriously

thinking of switching over as it brings long-term economic benefits and also benefits from the point of

view of consumer-awareness. They can sell their products in 'green' packaging, and this concept is

definitely catching on.


22

Applications in packaging for food & drink, are expected to account for large percentage of

revenue of the nanocomposites market by 2015, which was worth around $437.6 million in

2007. Table 6 shows the revenue forecasts for the nanocomposites for the food and drink and

packaging market for 2011-2015.

Market 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Food & Drink 500 740 925 1090 1240 1560

Consumer 296 635 790 875 1060 1248

Total 7298

Table 6: Revenue Forecasts Nanocomposites in food and drinks packaging (World), 2011-2015, $

Millions (Source: ION Publishing).

3.2.2 Key players

3.2.2.1 Nanocomposites suppliers

Table 7 gives an overview of nanocomposites suppliers:

Company

Food/ Food Preparatoion


Related Packaging

AMCOL International Corporation

●

BASF AG ● ●

Bayer AG ● ●

DuPont ● ● ●

Eastman Chemical Company ●

Elementis plc ●

FCC – China ●

Hybrid Plastics ● ● ●

InMat Inc ●

Kodak ●

Kunimine Industries ● ●

Lanxess ●

Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company Incorporated

●

M&G ●

NL industries ●

Multisorb ●

Nanocor ● ●

Nanoshel ● ● ●


23

Sasol Germany ●

Southern Clay Products ● ●

Sud Chemie ●

CBC ● ● ●

Table 7: Nanomaterials Suppliers vs. Industrial Sectors: Nanocomposites for food, drink and

packaging applications (Source: ION Publishing).

3.3 NANOCAPSULES Nanocapsules are generally described as spherical or cylindrical shaped nanoparticles, into

which different types of substances can be added (fragrances, enzymes, catalysts, oils,

adhesives, polymers, other nanoparticles or even biological cells).

Recently developed polymeric nanocapsules have the advantage of being functionalised

relatively easily. Manufacturing conditions of nanocapsules are not extreme, chemically or

thermally, which makes it possible to even encapsulate ‘living’ (biological) material inside them.

Furthermore, nanocapsules can be designed with the ability to deliver the contents to the

target, or to be released by some activator, or within a set time or external condition (such as

light, temperature or pressure).

3.3.1 Market for nanocapsules

Nanocapsules ranging from 130-500nm have been on the market in cosmetics for a number of

years, with companies such as Lancome and L’Oreal incorporating them into their range of

beauty products. In the food industry, liposomal nanocapsules have been used to deliver food

flavours and nutrients, with applications in nutraceutical and sports foods and drinks, and

liposomal nanocpsules for ‘flavour burst’ foods More recently they have been investigated for

their ability to incorporate food antimicrobials that could aid in the protection of food products

against growth of spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms.

Figure 4 below illustrates the percentage breakdown of the projected highest revenue

applications based on nanocapsules by 2015, with food use at 20% of the total market.


24

.

Figure 4: Nanocapsules: Estimated Breakdown by Highest Demand Application, 2015 (Source:

ION Publishing).

The nanocapsules market is worth around $32 million in 2007. Figure 5 and table 8 below show

the revenue forecasts for the nanocapsules market for the period 2008-2015.

Market 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Life Sciences & Health

18 22 31 79 104 220 440 510 540

Consumer 11 14 18 32 46 78.5 102 165 212

Construction 1.8 3.2 6 11 15.6 19.5 28 41 106

Food & Drink 0.3 5.5 12 18 51 84 101 147 220

Household - 0.3 1.1 7 12 14.5 19 26 31

Other 0.9 1.1 1.4 2.1 2.6 3.1 3.8 4.2 4.7

Total 32 46.1 69.5 149.1 231.2 419.6 693.8 893.2 1113.7

Table8: Revenue Forecasts Nanocapsules Demand (World), 2006-2015, Million US$ (Source: ION

Publishing).

Multi-functional

liposomal

nanocapsules in

food

20%

Drug delivery

(Dispersed

polymer

nanocapsules,

magnetic

nanoparticles)

41%

Fragrancing and

anti-bacterial

release

13%

Beauty care

15%

Self-healing & anti-

fouling coatings

(mixing

nanocapsules into

paints)

11%


25

Figure 5: Revenue Forecasts Nanocapsules Demand (World), 2006-2015, Million US$ (Source:

ION Publishing).

3.3.2 Key players

3.3.2.1 Manufacturers and End Users

Table 9 gives a list of end users and manufacturers of products using nanoencapsulation

technology in their products:

Company

Manufacturers

End Users

Heinz ● ●

Shemen Industries (Canola Oil) ● ●

RBC Life Sciences Ltd (Milk Shake) ●

Danone ● ●

Nestle ● ●

Kraft ● ●

Nutralease (Sports Drinks) ●

Reckitt Benckiser ● ●

Unilever ● ●

Shenzhen Industry & Trade Co (Tea) ● ●

General Mills ● ●

Table 9: Manufacturers and End Users vs. Industrial Sectors: Nanocapsules (Source: ION

Publishing).

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

Life

Scien

ces

Con

sum

er

Con

stru

ctio

n

Food

& D

rink

Hou

seho

ld

Oth

er

Millio

n $

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015


26

3.4 NANOPOROUS MATERIALS As a general characteristic, nanoporous materials contain holes less than 100 nm in diameter

and may be bulk materials or membranes. Nanoporous materials can have open

(interconnected) pores or closed pores and could have amorphous, semi-crystalline or

crystalline (e.g. lamellar, cubic, hexagonal) frameworks. These two characteristics very much

influence the applications a specific nanoporous material is suitable for. Nanoporous materials

are of significance because they possess the ability to absorb and interact with atoms, ions and

molecules on their large interior surfaces and in the nanometre size pore spaces.

Nanoporous materials combine the advantages of porous materials with the biological

functionality of the material itself. The materials’ properties are enhanced or inhibited by the

nanometre-sized porous structure, but still depend on the material’s chemical composition.

Above all others, the most remarkable properties exhibited by nanoporous materials include:

high specific surface area, control over pore size, morphology and distribution.

Environmental applications make up a large proportion of the market for nanoporous materials,

followed by oil refining, detergents and water treatment. New absorbents and nanoporous

membranes are being developed for various emissions removal applications. High performance

adsorbents for bioprocess engineering are under development based on templated nanoporous

silica materials. This could potentially lead to significant advances in advanced materials and

adsorbent technology, downstream processing for the biotechnology and food processing

industries, offering highly specific affinity interactions used for difficult bioseparations.

As nanoporous materials display a high sensitivity to slight changes in environments

(temperature, atmosphere, humidity, and light) they can also be used as sensor and actuator

materials. Gas sensors based on nanoporous metal oxides such as SnOz, TiOz, Zr02, and ZnO are

being developed and applied as detectors of levels of food freshness, ripeness and / or spoilage,

and to monitor the air quality in food processing. Under development are nanoporous materials

to act as virus filters

Figure 6 below illustrates the percentage breakdown of the projected highest revenue

applications based on nanoporous materials by 2015.


27

Figure 6: Nanoporous materials: Estimated Breakdown by Highest Revenue Application, 2015

(Source: ION Publishing).

The nanoporous materials market was worth around $804 million in 2007. Energy and

environmental applications are expected to account for the largest percentage of revenue by

2015. Figure 7 and table 10 show the revenue forecasts for the nanoporous materials market

for the period 2006-2015.

Market 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Energy 360 396 490 610 700 815 960 1114 1215 1420

Environment 415 520 623 731 860 967 1190 1349 1526 1755

Life Sciences 7 11 19 37 66 82 114 146 183 220

Food & Drink 21 27 47 75 130 185 210 290 340 462

Other 1 2.5 3 4.5 6 8 9.5 10.5 12 14

Total 804 956.5 1182 1457.5 1762 2057 2483.5 2909.5 3276 3871

Table 10: Revenue Forecasts Nanoporous Materials Demand (World), 2006-2015, Million US$


Catalysis

21%

Clean energy

production &

storage

16%

Nanoporous

biomaterials

9%

Absorbents

24%

Environmental

separations &

sensors

30%


28

Figure 7: Revenue Forecasts Nanoporous Materials Demand (World), 2006-2015, Million US$


3.4.1.1 Application manufacturers

Table 11 gives a brief list of the food /drink application manufacturers that are using

nanoporous materials in their product portfolio:

Table 11: Application Manufacturers vs. Food / Drink Sector: Nanoporous materials (Source: ION

Publishing).

0200400600800

100012001400160018002000

Ene

rgy

Env

ironm

ent

Life S

cien

ces

Food

& D

rink

Other

Reven

ue (

Mil

lio

n U

S$)

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

Company

Use of Nanoporous Materials in Food / Drink applications

Aquamarijn Research ●

Nanomi ●

Nanosens ●

Nanosensors Inc ●

Optodot ●


29

3.5 NANO FILMS AND COATINGS The application of transparent, self-assembling coatings that impart functional benefits to

surfaces can lead to a huge range of new features. Highly sophisticated surface-related

properties can be obtained via nanostructured coatings.

Surfaces can be modified by other agents (chemicals, designed polymers) as a way to create the

properties desired. Next generation nanocoatings offer unique properties such as self-healing

and scratch and corrosion resistance, useful to food packaging designers.

Most coatings applied today are ''dumb'' in the sense that, once applied, they perform their

function without the ability to self-correct because of changing circumstances or without the

ability to tell the user of potential anomalies. Nanotechnology-based coatings can also allow for

multifunctional capabilities, e.g. they have at least two properties at the same time; for

example, they can be hydrophobic and anti-bacterial, and also UV resistant.

3.5.1 Market for Nanocoatings

Companies have found that with the incorporation of nanoparticles, both in and on the film,

thin film coatings have stronger bonds and better flexibility, with little cost difference. These

coatings are smoother, stronger and more durable. Nanomaterials such as thin films and

engineered surfaces have been developed and applied across a wide range of industries.

The ability of controlling surface coatings at the nanoscale is of paramount importance for a

large-scale industrial development of nanotechnology. At present, many physical and chemical

methods are available for the nanofabrication of layers and coatings with nanometric control of

the structural and functional features. Examples of nanocoatings applications are illustrated in

table 12.

Applications Food, Drink and Packaging

Smart coatings 2

Self-healing coatings 3

Photocatalytic coatings 1

Antimicrobial coatings 1

Oxygen resistant films 1

Self-cleaning surfaces 1

Effective clear inorganic UV resistanceabsorbent films 1

Table 12: Application vs. Industrial Sectors: Nanocoatings. 1. Already available on the market 2.

Awaiting marketability 3. Under development 4. Existing as concept (Source: ION Publishing).

The nanocoatings market is currently worth approximately US$814 in 2007. “One way” coating

systems based on nanomaterials make up the bulk of this market, for example in anti-bacterial;


30

protective and conductive coatings. However under development are “two way” systems such

as shape-memory materials, hydrophobic/hydrophilic switching and thermochromic pigmented

coatings that will come onto the market in the next 2-3 years. Figure 8 and table 13 show the

revenue forecasts for the nanocoatings market for the period 2006-2015.

Market 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Aerospace & Defence 150 180 240 340 390 560 768 1140 1500 1880

Automotive 125.4 180.5 228 361 423.7 1007 1483.9 1748 1938 2451

Energy 21 32 46 57 101 179 360 500 620 750

Life Sciences 30 51 88 175 370 750 930 1250 1475 1800

Construction 35 48 72 151 245 330 460 563 625 750

Textiles 62 110 240 375 630 845 1070 1250 1620 1900

Environment 5 11 30 49 95 140 197 280 325 420

Food & Drink 19 30 85 130 190 245 310 355 420 491

Consumer/House 51 125 390 610 815 1264 1450 1700 2010 2350

Security 27 41 95 180 293 387 440 605 740 896

Other 3 5.5 8 11 13 17 25 31 36 42

Total 528.4 814 1522 2439 3565.7 5724 7493.9 9422 11309 13730

Table 13: Revenue Forecasts Nanocoatings (World), 2006-2015, Million US$ (Source: ION

Publishing).

Figure 8: Revenue Forecasts Nanocoatings (World), 2006-2015, Million US$ (Source: ION

Publishing).

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

Aer

ospa

ce

Aut

omot

ive

Ene

rgy

Life

Scien

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Con

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Textile

s

Env

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Food

& D

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Hou

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Reven

ue (

Mil

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S$)

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015


31

4 THE MARKET FOR NANOTECHNOLOGY IN FOOD AND DRINK The current global population is now over 7 billion with 50% living in Asia. A large proportion of

those living in developing countries face daily food shortages as a result of environmental

impacts or political instability, while in the developed world there is a food surplus. For

developing countries the drive is to develop drought and pest resistant crops, which also

maximize yield. In developed countries, the food industry is driven by consumer demand which

is currently for fresher and healthier foodstuffs. This is big business, for example the food

industry in the UK is booming with an annual growth rate of 5.2% and the demand for fresh food

has increased by 10% in the last few years.

Food and drink account for a significant proportion of household expenditure. Across the agri-

food chain, from farm to fork, there is a major potential market for future applications and

development in nanomaterials. Research in agriculture has always dealt with improving the

efficiency of crop production, food processing, food safety and environmental consequences of

food production, storage and distribution. Nanotechnology provides a new tool to pursue these

goals.

The nanoscale is not new to the food and beverage sector, with various phenomena already

witnessed and exploited in nutraceutical and functional food formulation, manufacturing, and

processing. Colloid science, for example, has been applied to food materials for a long time. An

array of food and beverages contain components that are nanoscale in size and in processing

(dairy for example), the manipulation of naturally occurring nanoparticles is involved.

However, it is only recently that novel applications have come under investigation for new

functionalities and efficient delivery mechanisms for food and beverages. New tools and

processes are allowing researchers greater understanding of areas such as the mechanisms of

targeted delivery that will potentially lead to smart delivery for both optimization of human

health and novel physical, visual and sensory effects.

Potential applications include food that can alter its colour, flavour or nutrients to suit each

consumer's preference or health requirements; filters that can take out toxins or modify

flavours by sifting through certain molecules based on their shape instead of size; and packaging

that can detect when its contents are spoiling, and change colour to warn consumers. The

understanding of food materials and food processing at the nanoscale is important in order to

create new and improved food products.

4.1 Nanotechnology in food production The application of nanotechnology in food and agriculture is in its nascent stage. However, over

the next decade, the use of nanotechnology may increase to encompass such applications as the


32

detection of carcinogenic pathogens and biosensors to enable contamination-free food and

agricultural products.

The application of nanotechnology to the agricultural and food industries was first addressed by

a United States Department of Agriculture roadmap published in September 2003.4 The

prediction is that nanotechnology will transform the entire food industry, changing the way food

is produced, processed, packaged, transported, and consumed.

Nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize the agricultural and food industry with new

tools for the molecular treatment of diseases, rapid disease detection, enhancing the ability of

plants to absorb nutrients etc. Smart sensors and smart delivery systems will help the

agricultural industry combat viruses and other crop pathogens. In the near future

nanostructured catalysts will be available which will increase the efficiency of pesticides and

herbicides, allowing lower doses to be used. Nanotechnology will also protect the environment

indirectly through the use of alternative (renewable) energy supplies, and filters or catalysts to

reduce pollution and clean-up existing pollutants. Some example applications are featured in

table 14.

Areas of Use Application

Production, processing and shipment of food products

Nanosensors for pathogen and contaminant detection.

Increase efficiency and security Integration of “Smart Systems” into sensing, localization, reporting and remote control.

Bioprocessing The use of molecular probes or the development of devices that allow that allow rapid identification of microbes present in feedstock are examples of research at the nanoscale that can increase the efficiency of bioprocessing.

Bioanalytical nanosensors Detection of very small amounts of chemical contaminant, virus or bacteria in agriculture and food systems is envisioned from the chemical, physical and biological devices, working together as an integrated sensor at the nanoscale. The bioanalytical nanosensors either use biology as a part of the sensor, or are used for biological samples.

Table 14: Areas of application of nanotechnology in the Food Production and Supply) (Source:

ION Publishing).

Globally, many countries have identified the potential of nanotechnology in the agrifood sector

and are investing a significant amount in it. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)

has set out ambitious plans to be achieved in the short, medium and long term, and aims to

discover novel phenomena, processes and tools to address challenges faced by the agricultural

sector. Equal importance has been given to the societal issues associated with nanotechnology

and to improve public awareness.

4 Nanoscale science and engineering for agriculture and food systems, Dept. of Agriculture, United States, 2003.


33

The UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) has commissioned studies to assess new and potential

applications of nanotechnology in food, especially on packaging.5 At the same time more money

has been given by other Government departments towards research and development which

includes the development of functional food, nutrient delivery systems and methods for

optimizing food appearance, such as colour, flavour and consistency.

4.2 Food processing and safety Food safety is one of the key issues of the food industry as, for example, contamination of foods

with pathogen bacteria has consequences not only for the consumer who becomes ill, but also

for the food producer who loses creditability and often suffers financial losses. There is

therefore a need to develop rapid and portable biosensors for the detection of pathogens,

pollutants and toxins in the environment and for food diagnostics. Biosensors can be applied in

processing of foods for monitoring.

Another important aspect is the impact of foods on health and disease prevention. These areas

are of major public interest and require increased insight into material science with respect to

the production facilities, analytical methods for detection and quantification of both food safety

concerns and impact on food quality, and finally a more thorough understanding of chemical,

molecular, and physical composition of foods and their effect on our well-being. These

challenges call for the use of new methodologies including a number of available

nanotechnological tools.

Under development in nanotechnology in on order to provide safe food to consumers are

sensors which can almost instantly reveal whether a food sample contains toxic compounds or

bacteria; anti-bacterial surfaces for machines involved in food production; thinner, stronger and

cheaper wrappings for food; and the creation of food with a healthier nutritional composition.

Much of the equipment used in the food industry is manufactured from stainless steel. Several

major food manufacturers have carried out tests on the effectiveness of coatings to reduce

microbial attachment and subsequent biofilm development on such equipment. Whilst

effectiveness on SS surfaces can be achieved in the lab, the tests failed to produce effective

treatments when tested in factories where equipment is treated harshly, particularly during

cleaning at the end of each day. The coatings are damaged and then hamper cleaning.

Data is available to show that ‘residuals’ remaining on and adhered to surfaces after cleaning

and disinfection can ‘condition’ a surface such that they reduce its ability for soil and microbial

attachment. This phenomenon offers the opportunity to restrict biofilm development. Whilst

existing chemicals, such as quaternary ammonium compounds, have a beneficial effect, there is

the potential for incorporating ‘additives’ into the cleaning and disinfection solutions. Various

research groups are considering suitable nanoadditives. For example, some researchers are

5 www.food.gov.uk/multimedia/pdfs/nanotech.pdf


34

considering the effects of adsorption and denaturation of proteins on the subsequent ability of

cells to adhere to surfaces while others are considering the use of synthetic nanoparticles.

Although there is a good likelihood that nanotechnology will lead to an overall enhancement of

choice and quality in the food and beverage sector, significant concerns about the safety of

nanomaterials may arise. There is recognition amongst some that safety data/assurances are

needed before new nanoparticles are used in foods and beverage and food packaging materials,

and that current legislation may not be sufficient. Regulatory bodies are mindful of any new

safety issues posed by nanomaterials, as full understanding of potential risks is very limited at

present. It has been stated that there is a lack of fundamental knowledge on areas such as

toxicology; exposure; generic risk assessment and the legal framework.

According to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK, there are no major gaps in regulations

pertaining to the food and beverage area, though with further development of nanotechnology

these may become apparent. Those that are not covered by existing UK regulations would come

under the auspices of the EU.

Current legislation appears to permit nanoparticles of food-approved materials, based on

macroparticle safety tests. Replacement of macroscopic materials with nanoparticles is seen as

simple change in formulation of the product. There is no legal requirement for nanoparticles to

be formally cleared as novel ingredients or additives, whether for direct or indirect food use and

there is no specific requirement to indicate their presence on food labels. In the absence of the

complete picture of food safety / toxicology, and at this early stage in development of the

technology, it could be appropriate to regard nanomaterials as a separate class of either “novel

foods” or new additives and to control them under one of the respective regulatory

frameworks, accordingly.

The Federal Drug Agency (FDA) in the USA has traditionally regulated many products in this size

range and believes the existing pharmacotoxicity tests are adequate for most nanotechnology

products. The FDA states that particle size is not the issue, and as new toxicological tests that

derive from new materials and / or new conformations of existing materials are identified, new

tests will be required. At present, the FDA regulates only to the ‘claims’ made by the

manufacturer. “If he makes no reference to nanotechnology … FDA may be unaware (during

review / approval process) that nanotechnology is being used.”

4.3 Food packaging The technology requirements for packaging are constantly evolving, with manufacturers, brand

owners and consumers seeking improved product features and performance. With packaging

there is limited scope for improving pack geometry, and only a little more for improving

materials processing and pack constructional detail. However there is scope for improvement in

material performance and the exploitation of nanomaterials is a real opportunity to improve

performance and to reduce costs.


35

The properties afforded by exploitation of the nanoscale can significantly increase the shelf life,

efficiently preserve flavour & colour, and facilitate transportation & usage of food and

beverages. The development of novel functional hybrid food/ packaging systems will provide

alternative, more efficient and, in some cases, unique industrial means to provide foods with

improved impact on human health upon consumption.

In the food-packaging arena, nanomaterials are being developed with enhanced mechanical and

thermal properties to ensure better protection of foods from exterior mechanical, thermal,

chemical or microbiological effects. Innovation via nanoscale coatings and thin films and the

incorporation of nanocomposites includes:

modifying the permeation behaviour of foils

increasing barrier properties

improving mechanical and heat-resistance properties

developing active antimicrobial and antifungal surfaces

sensing and signalling microbiological and biochemical changes.

Packaging has an important role to play in food safety with potential applications of nano

enabled packaging allow for detection of pathogens and microbial contamination, as well as

optimal product quality (ripeness). Recent technological developments have enabled the food

industry to create active packaging that prolongs food quality and shelf life and nanotechnology

will continue to enhance this area. We are already witnessing the replacement of traditional

“packing” with multi-functional intelligent packaging methods to improve the quality of the

packaging contents and provide both supplier and consumer information.

As well as enhancement of the raw materials using in packaging, nanotechnology will also allow

for further added value features through the exploitation of intelligent materials. These include

plastic films pre-impregnated with oxygen absorbers, ethylene absorbers and moisture

absorbers. For PET bottles gases such as oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) are able to

permeate the microstructure of the bottle wall. In juices, for example, vitamins, flavorings and

colorings are impaired significantly during storage as a result of this permeation, leading to a

reduction of shelf life. The market therefore requires the packaging industry to provide a

technically and commercially convincing barrier solution for this purpose. Nanomaterials can

allow for gas/water vapor permeability to fit the requirements of reserving fruit, vegetable,

beverage and other foods.

The incorporation of sensors and electronics on packaging materials can also allow active

monitoring of freshness and state of product and display information on the package. Intelligent

materials under development include laminar displays, freshness technology, counterfeit

protection, cool/heat technology, radio frequency identification (RFID), time temperature


36

indicators and smart inks. The current state of development and the uses of nanotechnology

products in food & drink have been listed in the table 15.

Already available on the market

Awaiting marketability

Under development Existing as concept

Food & Drink - Nanoemulsions

- Nanocomposite barrier packaging

- Nanoporous membranes for processing

- Super hydrophobic surfaces

- Controlled release seed coatings

- Pathogen detection with nanoparticles

- Nano encapsulated nutraceuticals

- Programmable barrier properties in coatings that allow control over packaging's internal moisture, atmospheric environment

- Electronic tongue

- Smart paper for information display and interactivity on packaging

Table 15: Current state of development and the uses of nanotechnology products in food & drink


4.4 Key applications and market opportunities to 2015 The global market for nanotechnology in the food and drink industry is around US$105 million in

2007, mainly in the packaging area. Few nano-based products are marketed in other areas of

the sector and those coming onto the market will likely be first used at the processing stage. It

is forecast that nano-based products and processes will be worth US$2.135 billion to the food

and drink industry by 2015.

4.5 Global market for nano-enabled food and beverage packaging

With the increasing global customer base, food retailing is transforming. However, with the

move toward globalization, food packaging requires longer shelf life, along with monitoring food

safety and quality based upon international standards. To address these needs, nanotechnology

is enabling new food and beverage packaging technologies. Applications in nano-enabled

packaging span development of improved tastes, color, flavor, texture and consistency of

foodstuffs, increased absorption and bio-availability of nutrients and health supplements, new

food packaging materials with improved mechanical, barrier and antimicrobial properties, and

nano-sensors for traceability and monitoring the condition of food during transport and storage.

According to a latest study from iRAP, Inc., Nano-Enabled Packaging for the Food and

Beverage Industry – A Global Technology, Industry and Market Analysis, the total nano-

enabled food and beverage packaging market in the year 2008 was $4.13 billion, which is

expected to grow in 2009 to $4.21 billion and forecasted to grow to $7.30 billion by 2014, at a

CAGR of 11.65%. Active technology represents the largest share of the market, and will continue

http://www.innoresearch.net/report_summary.aspx?id=68&pg=107&rcd=FT-102&pd=7/1/2009

http://www.innoresearch.net/report_summary.aspx?id=68&pg=107&rcd=FT-102&pd=7/1/2009


37

to do so in 2014, with $4.35 billion in sales, and the intelligent segment will grow to $2.47 billion

sales.

Other highlights of the study are as follows:

Among active technologies, oxygen scavenger, moisture absorbers and barrier packaging

represent more than 80% of the current market.

Time/temperature indicators are a major share of intelligent packaging, with radio

frequency identification data tags (RFIDs) forecasted to show the strongest growth in this

category in the future.

In food products, the bakery and meat products categories have attracted the most nano-

packaging applications, and in beverages, carbonated drinks and bottled water dominate.

Among the regions, Asia/Pacific, in particular Japan, is the market leader in active nano-

enabled packaging, with 45% of the current market, valued at $1.86 billion in 2008 and

projected to grow to $3.43 billion by 2014, at a CAGR of 12.63%.

In the United States, Japan, and Australia, active packagings are already being successfully

applied to extend shelf-life while maintaining nutritional quality and ensuring

microbiological safety. Examples of commercial applications include the use of oxygen

scavengers for sliced processed meat, ready-to-eat meals and beer, the use of moisture

absorbers for fresh meat, poultry, and fresh fish, and ethylene-scavenging bags for

packaging of fruit and vegetables. In Europe, however, only a few of these systems have

been developed and are being applied now. The main reasons for this are legislative

restrictions and a lack of knowledge about acceptability to European consumers, as well as

the efficacy of such systems and the economic and environmental impact such systems may

have. The European “Actipak” project will address these issues in the near future.

Nanoclays have shown the broadest commercial viability due to their lower cost and their

utility in common thermoplastics like polypropylene (PP), thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO),

PET, polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), and nylon.

Nano-enabled Packaging in the Food and Beverage Market Segmented by Technology, 2008, 2009 and 2014 ($ Billions)

2008 2009 2014

CAGR (%)

2009-2014

Active packaging 2.74 2.79 4.35 9.29

Intelligent packaging 1.03 1.05 2.47 18.7


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Controlled release pkg. 0.36 0.37 0.48 5.23

Total Market 4.13 4.21 7.30 11.65

Nano-enabled Packaging in the food and beverage Market Segmented by Technology in

2009 and 2014

(%)

Source: iRAP, Inc.


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Figure 9: Food & Drink Nanotechnology Implementation Market: Revenue Forecasts (World),

Million US$, 2006-2015 (Source: ION Publishing).

Figure 10 illustrates the projected percentage breakdown by application area based on

nanotechnology by 2015 in the food and drink sector. The main percentage of revenue for the

“nanotechnology market” will be generated by packaging, although by 2015 the sector will have

progressed from simple barrier protection to interactive and smart packaging. Nutrient and

flavour delivery is still a grey area at present due to uncertain consumer perceptions of

nanotechnology in foods; however R&D is underway at large food companies-these companies

are also keen to incorporate nano into processing equipment applications.

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Figure 10: Food & Drink Nanotechnology Implementation Market: Estimated Breakdown by

Application (World), 2015 (Source: ION Publishing).

It is expected that 29 % of all food and drink applications, from processing to final products,

available in 2015 will incorporate some form of nanotechnology. Nanotechnology based

applications such as will start to make an impact from 2012 as materials costs for packaging

decrease.

Figure 11: Food & Drink Nanotechnology Implementation Market: Concept Penetration Forecast

(World), 2006-2015 (Source: ION Publishing).

Packaging

49%

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production

4%

Nutrient and

flavour delivery

19%

Processing &

Safety

28%

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4.5 Market for nanomaterials in food and drink Figure 12 illustrates the projected percentage breakdown of nanomaterials usage by 2015 in the

food & drink sector.

Figure 12: Food & Drink Nanotechnology Implementation Market: Estimated Breakdown by

Application Materials Demand (World), 2015 (Source: ION Publishing).

4.6 Nanosensors Biosensors with components and materials made by microfabrication or nanofabrication

technologies will be integrated and miniaturized, and be used to replace existing, more time

consuming analytical methods for monitoring and detecting. Nano-sized and miniaturized

integrated sensors capable of high sensitivity, specificity, robustness and low cost; to create

integrated sensor systems for monitoring human metabolites for in home health care, to create

real-time sensor systems for use in healthcare, environmental monitoring and bioprocessing

industries that help speed product throughput and decrease product costs. Applications include

food, beverage, environmental, chemical, pharmaceutical, bioprocessing and clinical diagnostics.

The electronic tongue is one example that promises to give accurate and reliable taste

measurements for companies currently relying on human tasters for their quality control of

wine, tea, coffee, mineral water and other foods. The concept for the electronic tongue is

closely based on a model of the human tongue, in which taste buds are believed to distinguish

up to five basic taste types: sour, sweet, salty, bitter and umami (the taste of monosodium

glutamate).

Nanoencapsulation

13%

Nanosensors

17%

Nanoparticles

12%

Nanoporous

membranes

8%

Nanocomposites

27%

Nanocoatings

23%


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Give a self heating or self-cooling container a label incorporating thermochromic ink as part of

the design, and the package becomes ‘smart’ in that it informs the consumer when the

container contents have reached the correct serving temperature. Other visual signals might

include time-temperature integration information for shelf-life sensitive products or stress or

applied loading indicators that change colour at a certain stress threshold.

With the continual development of smart materials and systems and their application to

innovative package design and construction, additional communication and sensing

functionalities will become possible via photovoltaic, photochromic, piezochromic and

hydrochromic materials, applied as inks during the printing/decoration process. Intelligent and

responsive food packaging materials reliably indicating food freshness/ripeness and food

authenticity/origin which would supercede and make redundant 'use-by' and 'sell-by' dates.

Figure 13: Food & Drink Nanotechnology Implementation Market: Revenue Forecasts

nanosensors (World), Million US$, 2006-2015 (Source: ION Publishing).

4.7 Nanoencapsulation The exploitation of the nanoscale promises new delivery systems for biologically active materials

for: delivery of flavours and nutraceuticals and the utilization of complex phase behaviour in

food and beverage products for: improved texture, taste, nutrient release, appearance and

colour. Altering existing food products on the nanoscale will allow for better delivery of flavour,

antioxidants, vitamins and nutrition.

Nanoencapsulation technologies can be applied to solve problems related to controlled storage

and release of flavours and nutrition in the food and beverage sector. The possibility of tailoring

different functionalities, impregnating organic substances both inside capsule volume and in a

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shell, allowing for the controlled release of encapsulated material is of great interest to this

industry. Encapsulation in food and beverage is necessary for a number of reasons:

Enhance product sensory profile: taste and odour masking;

Protect sensitive ingredients from processing;

Enhance bioavailability: chemical stability, solubility, cell viability;

Controlled release: targeting of bioactives to specific GI tract sites.

Nano-enabled delivery systems are likely to find application for individualizing food

consumption to ensure optimal health. One possible example is a delivery vehicle will possess a

recognition capability that will allow a bioactive compound to be only released in the presence

of certain critical biochemical or genetic markers that are specific to each individual consumer.

Bioactive packaging could allow for integration and controlled release of bioactive components

or nano components from biodegradable and/or sustainable packaging systems; micro- and

nanoencapsulation of these active substances either in the packaging and/or within foods and

packaging provided with enzymatic activity exerting a health-promoting benefit through

transformation of specific food-borne components.



4.8 Nanocoatings In the field of nanotechnology-based thin films and coatings, new approaches using nanoscale

effects can be used to design, create or model nanocoating systems with significantly optimized

or enhanced properties of high interest to the food and drink industry. With the development of

nanotechnology in various areas of materials science the potential use of novel surfaces and

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more reliable materials by employing nanocomposite and nanostructured thin films in food

packaging and novel polymeric containers for food contact.

In this field of new packaging technologies, nanostructured architectures coatings such as

nanocomposite films are given the unique role of enhancing food impact over the consumer’s

health. For example, the unique properties of diamond like carbon (DLC) film under

development including its chemical inertness and impermeability, make it possible for new

applications in the food and drink sector. Most foods deteriorate in quality during transport,

processing, and storage through contamination, which occurs by growth of microorganisms,

enzymatic or nonenzymatic chemical reactions, and from physical changes. Antimicrobial

packaging can inhibit the growth of pathogenic or spoilage organisms on food surfaces, and

thus, can contribute to extending the shelf life of packaged foods.

Nanoparticles of zinc oxide and magnesium oxide have been shown to be effective in killing

microorganisms.6 This could provide a cheap, safe alternative to nano-sized silver, which has

good antimicrobial properties, but is expensive and as a heavy metal, is not suitable for human

contact. Other authors have concluded that a combination of nisin and a-tocopherol in a 3 mm

thick coating conferred both antimicrobial and antioxidative properties.7


Nanocoatings (World), Million US$, 2006-2015 (Source: ION Publishing).

6 Yulan Ding & Malcolm Povey.

7 Chan Ho Lee et al., Journal of Food Engineering 62 (2004) 323–329.

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4.9 Nanocomposites Nanotechnology is already finding application in the packaging, one of largest global

manufacturing sectors. Nanocomposite technology is being applied to the production of

breathable films with chemical and physical properties for product packaging. By incorporation

of biocompatible nanoparticles into a well-defined mesoporous framework, it is possible to

create an interface within the porous structure of the film. The nanosized pores can physically

impede the passage of microorganisms (for example bacteria), and on the other hand, the nano-

interface of pores can shield products from damaging light, or chemically neutralize the effect of

gases like ethylene. Already developed is a polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) nanocomposite

with a year-long shelf-life.

Smart packaging is an area currently under development where the package not only contains

and protects the product but also functionally enhances the product, or aspects of product

consumption, convenience and security. Consumers of the future will be older, more technically

aware and willing to pay for lifestyle and convenience factors, particularly associated with the

consumption of packaged food and beverage products.

Drivers include:

More effective communication

Packaging that opens more easily, is more easily disposed of with less waste

Packaging that does more than simply contain and protect the product, and gives

information

Make products easier/more effective in use

Heat/cool products

Help retain/monitoring quality & safety, especially of food products

Help prevent errors/track & track

Anti-counterfeiting.


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From

http://www.nanoforum.org/dateien/temp/nanotechnology%20in%20agriculture%20and%20foo

d.pdf:

4.10 Nanoporous membranes Current filtration applications are focused on beer, milk, pharmaceutical and environmental

filtration applications. This year micro and nanosieve filtration membranes are being introduced

in the market by companies with a good reputation for rapid detection of micro-organisms (PCR,

fluorescence microscopy) in food and beverages.

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4.11 Key Players Table 16 shows nanomaterials suppliers, application manufacturers and end users and their

specific areas of concentration for the nanotechnology implementation in the Food and Drink

sector. This also gives an insight on the emerging areas of the Food and Drink sector where

nanotechnology will have impact in the short to medium term.

Company Agricultural production

Packaging Processing & Safety Nutrient and flavour delivery

AC Serendip Ltd. ●

Advanced Nanotechnology

●

AgroMicron Ltd ●

Ambri Pty Ltd ●

Aquamarijn ●

Aquanova ●

Bayer ● ●

Biodelivery Sciences ●

Bühler AG ●

Chengdu Somo Nano-biology Co., Ltd

●

China Beijing Penta Nanotech Co., Ltd

●

Cornelius Group ●

Crown Bio ●

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Technology Ltd

DGTec ●

Heinz

Honeywell ●

InMat ●

Iota NanoSolutions Limited

●

Kodak ●

Kraft ● ●

Landec Corporation ●

Leatherhead Food International Ltd.

●

Nanocor ●

Nanomi ●

Nanosciences Inc. ●

Nanova ●

NGimat ●

Nestle ● ●

Nutralease ●

PChem Associates ●

Proctor & Gamble ● ●

Protista International AB

●

Surface Innovations Ltd

●

Unilever ● ● ●

Table 16: Food & Drink Nanotechnology Implementation Market: Supplier Versus Product Matrix

(World), 2007 (Source: ION Publishing).

5 TECHNOLOGY PROVIDERS: PROCESSING AND SAFETY Food safety is one of the key issues of the food industry as, for example, contamination of foods

with pathogen bacteria has consequences not only for the consumer who becomes ill, but also

for the food producer who loses creditability and often suffers financial losses. There is

therefore a need to develop rapid and portable biosensors for the detection of pathogens,

pollutants and toxins in the environment and for food diagnostics. Biosensors can be applied in

processing of foods for monitoring.

Another important aspect is the impact of foods on health and disease prevention. These areas

are of major public interest and require increased insight into material science with respect to


49

the production facilities, analytical methods for detection and quantification of both food safety

concerns and impact on food quality, and finally a more thorough understanding of chemical,

molecular, and physical composition of foods and their effect on our well-being. These

challenges call for the use of new methodologies including a number of available

nanotechnological tools.

Much of the equipment used in the food industry is manufactured from stainless steel. Several

major food manufacturers have carried out tests on the effectiveness of coatings to reduce

microbial attachment and subsequent biofilm development on such equipment. Whilst

effectiveness on SS surfaces can be achieved in the lab, the tests failed to produce effective

treatments when tested in factories where equipment is treated harshly, particularly during

cleaning at the end of each day. The coatings are damaged and then hamper cleaning.

Data is available to show that ‘residuals’ remaining on and adhered to surfaces after cleaning

and disinfection can ‘condition’ a surface such that they reduce its ability for soil and microbial

attachment. This phenomenon offers the opportunity to restrict biofilm development. Whilst

existing chemicals, such as quaternary ammonium compounds, have a beneficial effect, there is

the potential for incorporating ‘additives’ into the cleaning and disinfection solutions.

Various research groups are considering suitable ‘additives”. For example, some researchers are

considering the effects of adsorption and denaturation of proteins on the subsequent ability of

cells to adhere to surfaces while others are considering the use of synthetic nanoparticles.


50

5.1 Aquamarijn Micro Filtration bv

Products/Technology Platform

Aquamarijn Research develops and produces various nanostructures for sensor and electronics devices, including single nanopore membrane, nanoelectrodes, nanoresonators and especially ready for measurement nanowire chips. All these nanostructures with the dimensions of the active part down to a few nanometers can be used to build up many kinds of smart and powerful nanodevices that have been reported recently by researchers around the world. Our advantages are that we combine various “high tech equipment” together with “our proprietary developed processes” to make the above nanostructures inexpensive, thus offering nanostructures with a high added value at low-cost for further development and incorporation in final devices.

The company has developed advanced micro and nanofiltration technology through use of their membranes. Aquamarijn use microsystem technology to manufacture membranes (microsieves) with very well defined pore size. These membranes are very thin for a maximum product flux and can be tailored to the needs of the application (porosity, shape, pore size, material, specific coatings etc.).

The membranes, called microsieves or nanosieves, are made with micro system technology and are constructed from silicon or polymer based materials. Current filtration applications are focused on beer, milk, pharmaceutical and environmental filtration applications. This year micro and nanosieve filtration membranes are being introduced in the market by companies with a good reputation for rapid detection of micro-organisms (PCR, fluorescence microscopy) in food and beverages.

The microsieve (with perfect pores ranging from 100nm to 10µm) enables other research companies to enter the nano domain: making it possible to pattern structures with functional layers (anchor points for self assembled monolayers). The technology can also be used to generate droplets for drug delivery, nanoencapsulation or functional foods.

Web www.microsieve.com

Contact details Wietze Nijdam

Aquamarijn Micro Filtration bv

Berkelkade 11

NL 7201 JE Zutphen

T: +31 575519751

E: [email protected]

5.2 Cornell University, Department of Textiles and Apparel


This research group is developing bacteria absorbent nanofibres with potential for antibacterial wipes. Users would wipe the napkin across a surface and the tagged nanofibres would signal the presence of a pathogen or other hazard by changing colour or through another effect when the antibodies attach to their targets.

Web http://people.ccmr.cornell.edu/~frey/

Contact details Margaret Frey

Assistant Professor

Department of Textiles and Apparel

mailto:[email protected]


51

299 Martha Van Rensselaer Hall

Cornell University

T: +1 6072551937


5.3 Iota NanoSolutions Limited


Unilever spin out focusing on hydrophobic coatings. The company is specialising in the delivery and formulation of poorly soluble ingredients. IOTA's proprietary platform technologies allow the transformation of insoluble materials into dry solid formats that form nanodispersions on contact with a range of liquids. The nanodispersions enable the enhanced formulation and performance of insoluble materials in various environments and in so doing address many of the issues that restrict the exploitation of insoluble/poorly soluble active ingredients.

Web www.iotanano.com

Contact details IOTA NanoSolutions Ltd

MerseyBIO

Crown Street

Liverpool

L69 7ZB

UK

T: +44 (0)151 795 4219


5.4 Nanopool GmbH


Ultra thin nano layers for easy-to-clean surfaces and water and dirt repelling surfaces.

Web www.nanopool.biz

Contact details nanopool® GmbH

Zum Felsacker 76

D - 66773 Hülzweiler-Schwalbach

T: +49(0)6831 - 890 2712


5.5 Leatherhead Food International Ltd


A main research focus is related to the field of nanomaterials (e.g. nanoparticles and sensor chips) and nanocomposites (e.g. nanofiltration matrices). Through collaboration with companies, the research team has developed and validated numerous interphase technologies that provide solutions for the industry (food and water sectors). Examples of


52

successful applications include the following:

Immunomagnetic micro- and nano-particles for real-time capture and analysis of microorganisms (e.g. Salmonella, Listeria and yeasts) in foods and beverages;

Aluminium oxide nanofibre/glass composites for the real-time concentration and detection of foodborne viruses.

In addition, within the company, they have significant tract record/expertise in Microbiology, and have carried out a number of studies on biofilm formation and prevention using model surfaces, and studying effects of microbial signaling molecules.

Web www.leatherheadfood.com

Contact details Leatherhead Food International Ltd.

Randalls Road

Leatherhead

Surrey

KT22 7RY

T: +44 1372822200


5.6 Nano Hygiene Coatings Limited


The company develops easy-clean and antimicrobial coatings. The sol gel process is used for producing formulation. It can be applied using spraying, dipping, painting, rolling, flow casting. Thickness of coating is 5 micron without pigment and 15 microns with pigment. Life expectancy is generally higher in non-corrosive environments.

Web www.nanohygienecoatings.co.uk

Contact details Mildmay Close

Stratford upon Avon

Warwickshire

CV37 9FR

T: +44 (0) 844 588 3103

5.7 Nanosens


Biosensors based on microcantilevers have become a promising tool for directly detecting biomolecular interactions with great accuracy. Microcantilevers translate molecular recognition of biomolecules into nanomechanical motion that is commonly coupled to an optical or piezoresistive read-out detector system. Biosensors based on cantilevers are a good example of how nanotechnology and biotechnology can converge.

High-throughput platforms using arrays of cantilevers have been developed for simultaneous measurement and read-out of hundreds of samples. As a result, many interesting applications have been performed and the first sensor platforms are being commercialized.

Nanosens make portable sensing systems for ultrasensitive and rapid detection of biological and chemical species. At present the company is looking at applications for the life sciences, health care, security and water control and nano gas sensors for the automotive industry, pollution control, safety and health.

Web www.nanosens.nl

http://www.nanosens.nl/


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Contact details Dr. Hien Duy Tong

Berkelkade 11

NL 7201 JE

Zutphen

The Netherlands


T: +31575519751

5.8 Protista International AB


Protista are developing supermacroporous gels to assist in the separation of nanoparticles (e.g. organelles and viruses). This technology has application in food processing.

Web www.protista.se

Contact details Protista International AB

P.O. Box 86

SE-267 22 Bjuv

Sweden


T: +46 4282910

5.9 University of Glasgow, Department of Electronics and Electrical

Engineering


- The development of domestic and industrial sensor systems for odour (e.g. electronic nose), temperature, water quality, particulate air quality (e.g. pollen/dust), surface contamination monitoring (e.g. bacteria on kitchen work surfaces);

- Automatic release mechanisms based on microactuation (micromechanical or electrochemical) for disinfectant, deodorant or other aquatic or atmospheric release of chemicals;

- Closed loop operation of sensor/actuation mechanisms by means of low cost microelectronics and integrated microdevices (Micro Deployment Systems).

Web www.elec.gla.ac.uk

Contact details David Cumming

Department of Electronics and Electrical Engineering

University of Glasgow

Glasgow

G12 8LT

T: +44 1413305233


http://www.protista.se/


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5.10 University of London, Queen Mary, Department of Materials


Polyelectrolyte based capsules have been recently proposed as a novel type of microcontainers with multifunctional properties. These capsules are made by layer-by-layer adsorption of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes on colloidal template particles, including emulsions, of 0.05 – 20 µm diameter with sequential removal of the template core. A great variety of materials including synthetic and natural polyelectrolytes, proteins, multivalent ions, organic nanoparticles, lipids were used to build walls of hollow capsules.

The possibility of tailoring different functionalities, impregnating inorganic and organic substances both inside capsule volume and in polyelectrolyte shell, controlled release of encapsulated material provided continuous scientific and industrial interest for employing capsules as microcontainers and microreactors.

Smart polymers involved in capsule build-up exhibit reversible sensitivity to environmental conditions, such as temperature, pH, ions, etc. Inorganic nanoparticles incorporated to polyelectrolyte shell makes possible the remote activated release by ultrasound or infrared radiation. The possibilities for practical applications on living systems are illustrated.

As new developments these technologies of micro-encapsulation can be applied to solve problems related to controlled storage and release of flavours and other volatile chemicals. This includes:

- to develop methodology of encapsulation of industrially important and environmentally sensitive volatile products (flavours, aromas);

- to develop new technologies to solve industrially (safe handling and storage, environment protection, food industry, cosmetology and drug delivery) problems related to controlled release of gases and volatile chemicals, to develop and produce new types of trappers for aromas molecules, to develop novel techniques on nano-engineered shells with low permeability and controlled properties;

- to impart certain characteristics (magnetism, fluorescence, mechanical, biodegradability and biocompatibility) to polyelectrolyte capsules via entrapment of nanoparticles with desirable properties or via modification of shell polymer;

- to develop new knowledge for cost-efficient production of gas trapping nanocapsules and produce the new type of microcontainers for volatile storage, delivery and release with high controlled properties.

Web www.materials.qmul.ac.uk/staff/[email protected]

Contact details Prof. Gleb Sukhorukov

Chair in Biopolymers

Department of Materials

Queen Mary

University of London

Mile End Road

London, E1 4NS

T: +44 207882 5508


5.11 University of Melbourne, Particulate Fluids Processing Group


In the Particulate Fluids Processing Group they are developing new high performance adsorbents for bioprocess engineering based on templated nanoporous silica materials.


55

This could potentially lead to significant advances in advanced materials and adsorbent technology, downstream processing for the biotechnology industries, and understanding of highly specific affinity interactions used for difficult bioseparations.

The technology could have important benefits for processes involving protein purification, such as bioplasma processing, as well as flow on effects to other applications of adsorbent technology such as food processing and water treatment.

Web www.pfpc.unimelb.edu.au

Contact details Dr Andrea O’Connor

Dept. of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering

University of Melbourne

Vic 3010


T: + 61 383448962

5.12 University of Surrey, School of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences


Research in this group is on smart materials/membranes and application to diagnostics, environment, medicine and food. They are developing smart material patch-type indicators for specific nanoscale recognition of small and/or large molecules. Small molecules include analgesic drugs, metabolites, phenols and acids. Phenols are an important class of antioxidants. Using the smart patches, antioxidant content in foodstuffs can be determined in real-time as well as changes in pH of foodstuffs. The latter could be an indicator of rancidity. They are also developing smart materials for highly specific detection of large molecules (including proteins and enzymes). They are developing a novel class of hydrogel-based molecular imprinted polymers capable of highly specific protein recognition. They are also developing portable electrochemical sensor devices based on these materials. The smart materials when integrated with the sensor device are designed to be user-friendly and easy to use.

Web www.surrey.ac.uk/SBMS/

Contact details Dr Subrayal Reddy

University of Surrey

School of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences

Guildford

Surrey

T: +44 1483686396


5.13 University of Twente, Faculty of Science & Technology


Regularly occurring food scares and several food scandals underline the importance of food analysis. Food analysis can be carried out as a quality assurance measure early in the processing chain as well as later to ensure food safety. Independent of the purpose of testing, requirements for (and stakes in) food analysis are high.

Preferred techniques are non-destructive or in need of little sample material for representative results. Also, analysis must be fast and cheap, if possible suited for the determination of multiple components in one run. Automation of the measurement should


56

be possible, sample preparation should be easy. Finally, the method of choice must be robust and reliable.

Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) has been gaining terrain in the area of food analysis recently. SPR is a label-free measurement technique, its merits have been demonstrated on the ‘conventional scale’ for various matrices and analytes, e.g. antibiotics in milk, added vitamins in baby formula, hormones in meat.

Miniaturization in combination with SPR detection opens up the way to true multiplex analysis, to determine multiple (e.g. hundreds to eventually thousands) of components in one sample. The benefits are obvious: small sample sizes, one sample treatment per analysis with multiple components detected in parallel.

Figure: SPR Measurement Principle (Source: Biochip Group Twente).

In the Biochip Group at the University of Twente they are using microfabricated devices in combination with SPR for label-free determination of multiple components in complex matrices.

Web www.mesaplus.utwente.nl/biochip/

Contact details Dr. Richard Schasfoort

Biochip Group (BPE)

Faculty of Science & Technology

University of Twente


5.14 University of Wales Bangor, The Institute for Bioelectronic and

Molecular Microsystems


The electronic tongue promises to give accurate and reliable taste measurements for companies currently relying on human tasters for their quality control of wine, tea, coffee, mineral water and other foods. The concept for the electronic tongue is closely based on a model of the human tongue, in which taste buds are believed to distinguish up to five basic taste types: sour, sweet, salty, bitter and umami (the taste of monosodium glutamate).

While it is thought the response of tongue to any food or drink is likely to be complex, it is believed the brain learns to recognise a whole range of taste sensations by associating them with a “fingerprint” response from the taste receptors. Have developed the concept of an electronic tongue based on four miniature chemical sensors.

Each sensor contains a different combination of polymers and metals ions deposited on


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interdigitated gold electrodes. The chemical composition of each miniature sensor makes it “selective” to the molecules responsible for a particular taste sensation. By analysing the response of the four sensors to a liquid e.g. tea, coffee, wine etc it has been shown that it is possible to produce an electronic fingerprint of the taste and to distinguish between different waters, teas, coffees and wines.

Web www.informatics.bangor.ac.uk

Contact details Dr M W Holmes

Commercial Manager

The Institute for Bioelectronic and Molecular Microsystems

School of Informatics

University of Wales Bangor

Dean Street

Bangor

LL57 1UT

T: +44 1248382010



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6 TECHNOLOGY PROVIDERS: PACKAGING The technology requirements for packaging are constantly evolving, with manufacturers, brand

owners and consumers seeking improved product features and performance. With packaging

there is limited scope for improving pack geometry, and only a little more for improving

materials processing and pack constructional detail. However there is scope for improvement in

material performance and the exploitation of nanomaterials is a real opportunity to improve

performance and to reduce costs.

The properties afforded by exploitation of the nanoscale can significantly increase the shelf life,

efficiently preserve flavor & color, and facilitate transportation & usage of food and beverages.

The development of novel functional hybrid food/ packaging systems will provide alternative,

more efficient and, in some cases, unique industrial means to provide foods with improved

impact on human health upon consumption.

Packaging has an important role to play in food safety with potential applications of nano

enabled packaging allow for detection of pathogens and microbial contamination, as well as

optimal product quality (ripeness). Recent technological developments have enabled the food

industry to create active packaging that prolongs food quality and shelf life and nanotechnology

will continue to enhance this area. We are already witnessing the replacement of traditional

“packing” with multi-functional intelligent packaging methods to improve the quality of the

packaging contents and provide both supplier and consumer information.

As well as enhancement of the raw materials using in packaging, nanotechnology will also allow

for further added value features through the exploitation of intelligent materials. These include

plastic films pre-impregnated with oxygen absorbers, ethylene absorbers and moisture

absorbers. For PET bottles gases such as oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) are able to

permeate the microstructure of the bottle wall. In juices, for example, vitamins, flavorings and

colorings are impaired significantly during storage as a result of this permeation, leading to a

reduction of shelf life. The market therefore requires the packaging industry to provide a

technically and commercially convincing barrier solution for this purpose. Nanomaterials can

allow for gas/water vapor permeability to fit the requirements of reserving fruit, vegetable,

beverage and other foods.

The incorporation of sensors and electronics on packaging materials can also allow active

monitoring of freshness and state of product and display information on the package. Intelligent

materials under development include laminar displays, freshness technology, counterfeit

protection, cool/heat technology, radio frequency identification (RFID), time temperature

indicators and smart inks. Applications currently being explored include:

Advanced security features

Programmable barrier properties in coatings that allow control over packaging's internal moisture, atmospheric environment, etc.;

Self-cleaning surfaces that destroy fungi and bacteria, extending food's shelf life and providing hygiene properties by neutralizing harmful microorganisms;


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Smart paper for information display and interactivity on packaging;

Biocomposites from nanocellulose and biopolymers that have combined properties surpassing those of each individual component;

Nano reinforcement: fibre engineering to enhance the strength of board and thus reducing materials; improve bonding and reduce web breaks; improve paper quality; improve efficacy;

Superhydrophobic surfaces;

Modified Atmosphere Packaging;

Oxygen-Scavenging Packaging;

UV quenchers;

Nanoencapsulation for controlled/sustained release;

Adsorption of organic and inorganic contaminants using modified nanoclays;

Hybrid organic inorganic nanocomposite coating via sol gel chemistry for the realization of barrier layers.

Oxygen scavenging

Oxygen has many destructive properties and often there are instances where presence of the

element is not wished. Such circumstances might include electronic and opto-electronic devices,

and modified atmosphere packaging manufacture. Oxygen scavengers act to reduce the

concentration of oxygen in order to preserve the life of the substance it aims to protect.

Current agents include ascorbic acid or finely divided iron, however, these agents often have

short shelf lives and require special packaging environments. Nanomaterials allow for oxygen

scavenging which circumvents these problems.

Commercial examples of nanomaterials currently used for food and beverage packaging include

Durethan, a transparent plastic film containing nanoparticles of clay, produced by Bayer. The

nanoparticles are dispersed throughout the plastic and are able to block oxygen, carbon dioxide

and moisture from reaching fresh meats or other foods. Other companies producing packaging

materials in this market include Nanocor, who produce nanocomposites for use in plastic beer

bottles. These, however, are relatively low-end applications and there are cost constraints that

restrict their widespread uptake; besides there are more interesting oxygen scavenging

applications on the way.

Anti-microbial techniques

Most foods deteriorate in quality during transport, processing, and storage through

contamination, which occurs by growth of microorganisms, enzymatic or nonenzymatic

chemical reactions, and from physical changes. Antimicrobial packaging can inhibit the growth

of pathogenic or spoilage organisms on food surfaces, and thus, can contribute to extending the

shelf life of packaged foods.


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Nanoparticles of zinc oxide and magnesium oxide have been shown to be effective in killing

microorganisms8. This could provide a cheap, safe alternative to nano-sized silver, which has

good antimicrobial properties, but is expensive and as a heavy metal, is not suitable for human

contact. Other authors have concluded that a combination of nisin and a-tocopherol in a 3 mm

thick coating conferred both antimicrobial and antioxidative properties9.

Bioactive packaging could allow for integration and controlled release of bioactive components

or nanocomponents from biodegradable and/or sustainable packaging systems; micro- and

nanoencapsulation of these active substances either in the packaging and/or within foods and

packaging provided with enzymatic activity exerting a health-promoting benefit through

transformation of specific food-borne components.

Tracking and tracing

The tagging of food packaging with nano enabled sensors could allow for the monitoring of food

from “farm to fork”, allowing for in situ information at all steps of the process on the detection

of pathogens, temperature changes, leakages; which would allow a producer to maximize its

supply chain. One of the problems that the food industry and retailers face is how to tell

whether a food package has been opened or tampered with. One solution that has been

proposed is the application of a novel nanocrystalline indicator in the form of an oxygen

intelligence ink that is printable on most surfaces. Such ink can be composed of UV light

activated nanocrystalline particles of a semiconductor (usually titanium dioxide).

Tracking and tracing also allows for improved choice for consumers. Greater transparency

allows for consumers to make more informed choices. Electronics built on thin film laminate

substrates that could be used in future sensory packaging applications. The development of

sensory packaging that can monitor the conditions of pharmaceuticals and foods that are

affected by changes in temperature, humidity and shock. Nano barcodes are being developed by

Nanoplex, a spin-off from Surramed. When applied to products, the barcodes give each their

own unique identities. The treated product can then be tracked.

6.1 Antaria Limited


Antaria produces a wide range of nano-sized powders, from 5nm in width, for the global chemical, electronics, cosmetics, packaging and energy sectors. Originally a spin-off company from the University of Western Australia, Advanced Nano has full-scale

8 Yulan Ding & Malcolm Povey

9 Chan Ho Lee et al., Journal of Food Engineering 62 (2004) 323–329


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manufacturing using its patented mechanochemical processing (MCP™) technology. Antaria’s advanced Nano materials have enhanced UV absorption, abrasion resistance, conductivity, infra-red reflection, and antibacterial properties, are of higher quality and lower cost than has been possible before now.

Web www.antaria.com

Contact details 3 Brodie Hall Drive

Bentley

Western Australia

6102

T: +61 (8) 6253 5300


6.2 Crown Bio Technology Limited


The company have some unique ideas on near to market nano applications, related to release agents, freshness compounds (packaging aspects), and sustainable packaging (recyclable). Other areas that they may have applications which can be "nanoised" are microfluidic dispensing, bio enzyme valving and freshness dosing.

Web www.crownbiosystems.com

Contact details Edward Bell, Managing Director

Crown Bio Technology Ltd

Knowledge Dock Business Centre

Room 51

University of East London

4-6 University Way

London, E16 2RD

T: +44 7776067616


6.3 CVD Technologies Limited


Thin film coating - primarily using chemical vapour deposition techniques to produce these films. The company is currently involved in work on photoactive films. These films are inert but have inherent self-clean, surface energy (e.g. wetting-hydrophilic or hydrophobic) and anti-bacterial properties. The films are activated by daylight (or artificial light);

Such technology has been applied to window coatings e.g. Pilkington. Areas such as multi-use direct contact points (door handles/toilets etc) and food handling storage are obvious potential areas;

Other applications in food/medicine/drug /contact lens storage etc.

Web www.cvdtechnologies.com

Contact details Professor David Sheel

CVD Technologies Ltd

Cockcroft Building

University of Salford


http://www.cvdtechnologies.com/


62

Salford, M5 4WT

T: +44 1612953711/5111


6.4 EVAL


The company produces a nanocomposite barrier film for food packaging.

Web www.eval.be

Contact details EVAL Europe nv

Haven 1053,

Nieuwe weg 1 - Bus 10

B-2070 Zwijndrecht (Antwerp)

Belgium

T: +32 3 250 97 33


6.5 Ingenia Technology Limited


Ingenia Technology Limited have a technology called the Laser Surface Authentication system (LSA) which recognises the inherent 'fingerprint' within all materials such as paper, plastic, metal and ceramics. The technology has application in the authentication and verification of papers, plastics and metals, as used in documents, ID cards and product packaging.

Web www.ingeniatechnology.com

Contact details Ingenia Technology Limited

4-6 Throgmorton Avenue London EC2N 2DL, UK

T: + 44 (0) 207 256 9267


6.6 InMat


The company produce gas barrier polymeric coatings for packaging applications with the same level of barrier achieved with coatings on different substrates (OPP same as PET). Nanolok coatings start as aqueous suspensions of nanodispersed silicates in a polymer matrix. They are environmentally friendly, and can be applied via gravure coating processes to polyester film (or other substrates using appropriate adhesives).

The Nanolok aqueous suspension is applied via roll (or dip, or spray) coating process onto a polyester film or other substrate. Once dry, a very thin coating (0.25-2 microns) of Nanolok forms on the substrate. This coating contains hundreds of nanodispersed platelets per micron of coating thickness. These platelets form a tortuous path for molecules such as oxygen and aromatics, dramatically increasing the barrier properties of

http://www.eval.be/



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the substrate.

Web www.inmat.com

Contact details InMat

216 Route 206, Suite 7

Hillsborough

NJ 08844

T: +1 9088747788

6.7 Nano Scale Surface Systems, Inc.


The company specializes in nanocoatings in plastic/polymer 2 and 3 dimensional substrates (inside and out) It can coat the inside of plastic bottles with SiOx coatings to increase their resistance to oxygen and water vapour.

Web www.ns3inc.com

Contact details Nano Scale Surface Systems, Inc.

2021 Alaska Packer Place #3

Alameda

CA 94501

T: +1 5108140340


6.8 NGF Europe


The company manufacture glass flake which is used to improve the barrier properties of coatings, polymers and rubbers. Whilst or standard products are micro rather than nanoscale they can manufacture much smaller flakes. This could help enhance the barrier properties of drinks bottles.

Web www.ngfeurope.com

Contact details David Mason, Business Development Manager

NGF Europe

Lea Green

St Helens, WA9 4PR

T: +44 1744853058



6.9 nGimat


The company develops carbon dioxide and oxygen gas barrier coatings to a range of polymers, including PET containers and PET/polyolefin films. NGimat’s coatings reduce the carbon dioxide diffusion through plastic soft drink bottles, thus extending shelf life and enabling smaller plastic beverage containers - extended shelf-life will lower

http://www.inmat.com/

http://www.ns3inc.com/


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producers' costs by reducing losses due to "stale" product.

NGimat has developed processes utilizing their proprietary Nanomiser device to apply carbon dioxide and oxygen gas barrier coatings to polymers such as PET containers and PET/polyolefin films.

Web www.ngimat.com

Contact details nGimat

5315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd.

Atlanta

GA 30341

T: +1 6782872400

6.10 PChem Associates


PChem Associates are developing antimicrobial plastic coatings for potential food packaging applications incorporating silver nanoparticles. The company claims that food preservation applications using nanosilver are feasible as a microbial and light reduction coating in packaging, films and storage containers. PChem’s technology enables novel new applications in smart packaging including sensors and interactive pharmaceutical packaging, due to inherent advantages, including cost advantage based on lower-input (raw materials and energy) process; quantum speed advantage vs. current screen-printing technology enabling extreme volumes; ability to print on many flexible substrates including paper; Environmentally friendly, water-based technology

Web www.nanopchem.com

Contact details PChem Associates

Suite D

3599 Marshall Lane

Bensalem

PA 19020

T: +1 215 244 4603


6.11 New Jersey Institute of Technology, Department of Chemistry and

Environmental Sciences


Research is on modified nanotubes that could include the attachment of oxygen-scavenging compounds that inhibit the breakdown of the active ingredient in drugs, or indeed active sensor compounds that give a visual warning when a pack is exposed to biological, chemical or other environmental factors, or if the drug it contains is broken down. Similar ‘active packaging' approaches are being developed using polymers.

Web http://web.njit.edu/~mitra/personal.html

Contact details Somenath Mitra

Professor of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences

New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT)

151 Tiernan Hall



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6.12 Pennsylvania State University, Food Science Department


Under development in this research group are "breathable" films with optimal permeability that are now used to reduce respiration, maintain quality and extend the shelf life of fresh and minimally processed fruits and vegetables.

Also developed are "active" packaging films with oxygen scavenging and/or antimicrobial properties that improve food safety and extend the shelf life of some packaged foods.

Web http://foodscience.psu.edu/

Contact details John D. Floros

Professor of Food Science and Department Head

The Pennsylvania State University

206 Food Science Building

University Park

PA 16802

T: +1 8148655444


6.13 Umicore Nanomaterials


For packaging applications ZANO®, NanoGrain® CeO2 and to a lesser extent NanoGrain® TiO2 (rutile) or Optisol® will improve UV resistance of plastics packaging materials. In addition, NanoGrain® TiO2 (rutile) has a potential to increase gas and moisture barrier properties of packaging films (poly-ethylene, poly-propylene, poly-ethylene-terephthalate etc.) Materials such as NanoGrain® ITO or doped ZANO®, which are transparent electronic conductors, can make plastics anti-static or even conductive (when added in sufficiently high quantities).

NanoGrain® Ag has anti-microbial properties (and will increase conductivity). NanoGrain® ITO can change the IR-absorbing properties of polymers.

Web www.nanograin.umicore.com

Contact details Umicore NanoMaterials

Kasteelstraat 7

B-2250 Olen, Belgium

T: +32 14 24 50 18


6.14 University of South Carolina, Department of Chemistry &

Biochemistry


This research group is developing a high-gas barrier nanocomposites polymer. Instead of using natural nanoclay particles, the group creates synthetic clay platelets using phosphanates and perovskite, which means all particles are of equal quality and size and exfoliation can be done in only one step. Tests have shown various formulations of the


66

PET nanocomposite have significantly better gas barriers than regular PET.

Web www.chem.sc.edu/

Contact details Professor Hanno zur Loye

Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry

University of South Carolina


T: +1 8037776916

6.15 University of California Berkeley, EECS


Printed electronics provides a promising potential pathway toward the realization of ultralow-cost RFID tags for item-level tracking of consumer goods. Using printed nanoparticle patterns that are subsequently sintered at plastic-compatible temperatures the researchers are developing materials, processes, and devices for the realization of ultralow-cost printed RFID tags. Low-resistance interconnects and passive components have been realized.

Web www.eecs.berkeley.edu

Contact details Vivek Subramanian

Associate Professor, EECS

571 Cory Hall, #1770

University of California Berkeley

CA 94720-1770

T: +1 5106434535


6.16 University of Strathclyde, Department of Pure and Applied

Chemistry


Oxygen Scavenger

The scavenger is made of a photocatalyst such as TiO2 which, upon irradiation, deoxygenates a closed environment. The scavenger is embedded within a film which can be used to cover electronic, optoelectronic devices or protect foodstuff or medical instruments. The film is activated by light and as such can be controlled easily. It benefits from longer functional periods compared with current techniques.

Key Advantages

- Longer periods of functional use;

- Consumes greater volumes of oxygen per unit mass than iron or polymer based scavengers;

- De-oxygenation can be performed simply by the application of light - offering a high degree of controllability;

- Cost-effective method as film can be cheaply manufactured;

- Does not require a specialised packaging environment.

Markets and applications

This technology has a primary application in the following markets:

- Opto-electronic and electronic device manufacture;


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- Food packaging;

- Pharmaceuticals;

- Artwork and artefact storage and transport;

- Medical instrumentation.

Sensor for Oxidising Agents

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) is a modern and much used method to protect oxygen sensitive items, most commonly foodstuffs and sterilised medical equipment. It is imperative within this form of packaging that the level of oxygen is known, to indicate product tampering and assure quality. Current oxygen sensors tend to be unreliable, due to their reversibility with oxygen, and are also typically costly with short shelf-lives.

New research at the University of Strathclyde has discovered a novel sensor for measuring oxygen levels within MAP. Critically, the sensor changes colour on the detection of oxygen. Untrained personnel and end users can therefore monitor the oxygen level within the package to maintain product quality. The sensor is ‘activated’ using UV light and remains unaffected by light out-with the UV wavelength (i.e. it is unaffected by natural light). It is further unaffected by carbon dioxide, a common MAP gas.

Key Advantages

- Cheap to manufacture;

- Irreversible and therefore more reliable and accurate;

- Can be encapsulated within a number of materials including plastic film or ink dye;

- Longer shelf-life;

- Insusceptibility to carbon dioxide;

- Detectable to the human eye and so does not require trained personnel;

- Does not require specialised storage or handling.

Markets and applications

- Modified atmosphere packaging used by food industry to detect tampering and communicate product quality assurance in substances such as breads, confectionery, beverages, dairy products and fresh packaged foods;

- Sterilised medical equipment;

- Pharmaceuticals.

Web www.chem.strath.ac.uk

Contact details Professor A Mills

Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry

University of Strathclyde

16 Richmond Street

Glasgow , G1 1XQ

Scotland, United Kingdom

T: +44 1415482458



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Continue reading the main story

7 TECHNOLOGY PROVIDERS: DELIVERY AND RELEASE

Nanoencapsulation

The exploitation of the nanoscale promises new delivery systems for biologically active materials

for: delivery of flavours and nutraceuticals and the utilization of complex phase behaviour in

food and beverage products for: improved texture, taste, nutrient release, appearance and

colour. Altering existing food products on the nanoscale will allow for better delivery of flavour,

antioxidants, vitamins and nutrition.

Nanoencapsulation technologies can be applied to solve problems related to controlled storage

and release of flavours and nutrition in the food and beverage sector. The possibility of tailoring

different functionalities, impregnating organic substances both inside capsule volume and in a

shell, allowing for the controlled release of encapsulated material is of great interest to this

industry. Encapsulation in food and beverage is necessary for a number of reasons:

Enhance product sensory profile: taste and odour masking;

Protect sensitive ingredients from processing;

Enhance bioavailability: chemical stability, solubility, cell viability;

Controlled release: targeting of bioactives to specific GI tract sites.

Nano-enabled delivery systems are likely to find application for individualizing food

consumption to ensure optimal health. One possible example is a delivery vehicle will possess a

recognition capability that will allow a bioactive compound to be only released in the presence

of certain critical biochemical or genetic markers that are specific to each individual consumer.

Nanoemulsions

Microemulsions are spontaneously forming, fluid, oil and water dispersions stabilized by a

surfactant and typically a cosurfactant. The size of the nanodroplets in a microemulsion is

typically in the range 10-100nm. To date microemulsions have found application in drug

delivery, particle engineering, food and beverages and chemical synthesis.

Nanoemulsions, in common with microemulsions, are stable systems that contain small droplets

(typically 100-300nm) of one immiscible phase in another but, unlike microemulsions, are

formed by the input of a high amount of energy. Nanoemulsions find application in high clarity

beverages and nutraceuticals.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-12128120#story_continues_1


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7.1 AC Serendip Limited


The company produce nanoemulsions for:

- Diary;

- Mayonnaise;

- Sauces;

- Soups.

Their technology is based on high pressure emulsification and membrane emulsification with the result of smaller droplets: quick transfer of AI, transfer of AI (nanoemulsions), multiple emulsions (encapsulated AI) or direct control of drop size.

Web www.ac-serendip.com

Contact details Manuela Fischer

AC Serendip Ltd.

Fahrenheitstr. 1

28359 Bremen

Germany

T: +49 421 2208100


7.2 Aquanova


Aquanova has developed a new technology which combines two active substances for fat reduction and satiety into a single nanocarrier (micelles of average 30 nm diameter) called NovaSOL Sustain.

The NovaSol technology has also been used to create a vitamin E preparation that does not cloud liquids, called SoluE, and a vitamin C preparation called SoluC. NovaSOL can be used to introduce other dietary supplements as it protects contents from stomach acids.

Technology Summary of AQUANOVA´s Solubilisates

- Crystal Clear solutions: an industry proven carrier system for a broad variety of substances;

- Product Micelle: unique nano sized carrier system based on natures architecture = basis for solubilisates;

- Functional Benefits: empower creation of new products such as functional food / supplements with significantly higher bioavailability;

- Technical Benefits: empower protection of raw and active substances on natural basis;

- Thermal, mechanical and pH stability, also in gastric acid / less microbiologically susceptible than liposomes;

- Technology does not use chemical modification or nanoparticles.

Web www.aquanova.de

Contact details Frank Behnam

Birkenweg 8-10

64295 Darmstadt

T: +49 6151669690



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7.3 Nanomi B.V.


Nanomi has developed a device that can produced droplets in fluids on a continuous basis. Squeezing oil through a filter produces oil rods. Flushing water along the filter lops off the upper part of the rod and creastes droplets. Nanomi has perfected this process with a new patented technique that controls the form and composition of the droplets.

Customers can decide on the droplet size and produce double emulsions. They can fill oil droplets with water in order to reduce the fat content in food, or with healthy but unpalatable substances that are only released in the stomach. As well as the food industry, the technique may also have application in the cosmetics and pharmaceuticals industries.

Web www.nanomi.com

Contact details Hogekamp SP16

University of Twente

Enschede

Nanomi B.V.

T: +31 53489249

7.4 Nutralease


The company produce NutraLease, a delivery system for food and beverage applications, based on Nano Sized Self Assembled Structured Liquids

Beverage applications:

- Nutralease nano-sized concentrates of Vitamin E, D, A, K and Isoflavones, CoQ10, OmegaCran Oil, carotenoids and essential oils, specially designed as delivery system for clear beverage applications and for improved bioavailability.

Dairy applications:

- Nutralease nano-sized concentrates of Vitamin E, D, A, K and Isoflavones, CoQ10, carotenoids and essential oils, specially designed as delivery system for improved bioavailability and stability.

Web www.nutralease.com

Contact details Mr. Eli Levy

Managing Director

36 Haruvit St.

Mishor Adumim

Israel, 90610

T: 02-5353565


7.5 RBC Life Sciences


The company currently has a number of products

- Nanoceuticals Artichoke Nanoclusters: reduces surface tension of foods and supplements to increase wetness and absorption of nutrients;


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- Nanoceuticals Hydracel: Claimed to lower the surface tension of drinking water (and hence increase solvent properties);

- Nanoceuticals Slim Shake Chocolate: RBC’s NanoCluster delivery system to give CocoaClusters with enhanced flavour;

- Nanoceuticals Spirulina Nanoclusters: NanoClusters delivery system for the food product;

- Nanoceuticals Silver 22: Colloidal silver suspended in purified water;

- Nanoceuticals Microhydrin and Microhydrin Plus: Nanocolloidal silicate mineral, claimed to neutralise free radicals.

Web www.royalbodycare.com

Contact details RBC Life Sciences

2301 Crown Court Irving

Texas 75016

T: +1 972 8934000

W: www.royalbodycare.com

7.6 Salvona Technologies


Salvona Technologies developed a multicomponent delivery system3,4,5. This system, MultiSal™, delivers multiple active ingredients that do not normally mix well, such as water-soluble and fat-soluble ingredients, and releases them consecutively. It enhances the stability and bioavailability of a wide range of nutrients and other ingredients, controls their release characteristics and prolongs their residence time in the oral cavity, and thus prolongs the sensation of flavours in the mouth. The system consists of solid hydrophobic nanospheres composed of a blend of food-approved hydrophobic materials encapsulated in moisture-sensitive or pH-sensitive bioadhesive microspheres. A proprietary suspension technology generates nanospheres with a diameter of about 0.01-0.5 microns. The nanospheres are then encapsulated in microspheres of about 2050 microns in diameter. The nanospheres are not individually coated by the moisture-sensitive microsphere matrix, but are homogeneously dispersed in it. When the microsphere encounters water, such as saliva, it dissolves, releasing the nanos-pheres and other ingredients . Various ingredients can be incorporated into the hydrophobic nanosphere matrix, the water-sensitive microsphere matrix, or both matrices.

The active ingredients and sensory markers encapsulated in the nanospheres can be the same as, or different from, those encapsulated in the microspheres. The nanosphere surface can include a moisture-sensitive bioadhesive material, such as starch derivatives, natural polymers, natural gums, etc., making them capable of being bound to a biological membrane such as the oral cavity mucosa and retained on that membrane for an extended period of time. The nanospheres can be localised and the target ingredient encapsulated within their structure to a particular region, or a specific site, thereby improving and enhancing the bioavailability of ingredients which have poor bioavailability by themselves. Ingredients that have high water solubility, such as vitamin C, usually have low bioavailability. Enhancing the hydrophobicity of these ingredients enhances their bioavailability. In vitro tests have shown the ability of the nanospheres to adhere to human epithelial cells, such as those in the oral cavity. The encapsulation system has numerous benefits:

- Ease of handling. The system can be utilised to transform volatile liquids such as flavours into a powder, which are in many cases easier to handle.

- Enhanced stability. The system can be utilised to isolate active ingredients as well as flavours that may interact with the other food ingredients. This provides long-term


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product shelf life.

- Protection against oxidation. The microspheres have very low surface oil (less than 0.5%) at very high payloads (3040%) compared to conventional spray-dried particles utilising materials such as gum arabic or starch.

- Retention of volatile ingredients. The moisture-sensitive matrix provides excellent retention of highly volatile ingredients, such as flavours, over an extended period of time to reduce the flavour loss during the product shelf life.

- Taste masking. Unwanted taste can be masked by preventing interaction between the active molecule and the oral mucosal surface. The nanospheres are hydrophobic and can prevent bitter ingredients encapsulated within their structure from going into solution and interacting directly with taste receptors.

- Moisture-triggered controlled release. As discussed above, the microspheres dissolve in the presence of water or saliva to release the active ingredients or flavours, thereby providing a high impact flavour “burst.”

- pH-triggered controlled release. Ingredients can be encapsulated in the microspheres to enhance their stability during the product shelf life and to release them when needed or upon food consumption. For example, citral can be stabilised in a fruit juice at acidic pH and released in the mouth upon drinking.

- This pH triggered release was initially designed to deliver drugs to different regions of the gastrointestinal tract.

- Heat-triggered release. The hydrophobic nanospheres are temperature sensitive and can be utilised to release active ingredients and flavours at a certain temperature, e.g., upon heating in an oven or microwave oven or the addition of hot water for hot drinks and soups.

- Consecutive delivery of multiple active ingredients. Two or more ingredients that would react with each other if put together can be separated and provided consecutively by placing one in the nanosphere and the other in the microsphere. An example is encapsulation of folic acid and iron that work synergistically. Other examples would be the delivery of one flavour after another, or the delivery of a flavour or sensation (in the microsphere) to indicate that the active ingredient (in the nanospheres) has been delivered.

- Change in flavour character. Encapsulation of a flavour in the nanospheres that is different from the flavour encapsulated in the microsphere can provide a perceivable change in the organoleptic perception in response to moisture during the use of the product.

- Long-lasting organoleptic perception. As a result of the bioadhesive properties of the nanospheres and their residence in the oral cavity, flavour perception and mouth-feel can be extended over a longer period of time.

- Enhanced bioavailability and efficacy. As a result of their hydrophobic/lipophilic nature, the nanospheres can enhance the bioavailability of various active ingredients, such as vitamins, nutrients and other biologically active agents encapsulated within their structure.

Major potential product applications for the nanosphere/microsphere system are baked goods, refrigerated/frozen dough and batters, tortillas and flat breads, processed meats, acidified dried meat products, microwavable entrees, seasoning blends, confectionery, specialty products, chewing gum, dessert mixes, nutritional foods, products for well-being, health bars, dry beverage mixes and many others.

Web www.salvona.com

Contact details 65 Stults Rd.

Dayton

NJ 08810

USA

T: +1 (609) 655-0173


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7.7 Vivamer


This contract formulation company has proprietary IP on smart materials for encapsulation that allow triggered product release in response to specific environmental conditions, such as temperature, acidity, water activity, light or exposure to certain chemical triggers. For example, perfume encapsulates might be programmed to release fragrance upon exposure to sunlight or hot weather. Furthermore, by varying the chemistry, the smart materials can be tuned to respond to very specific environmental conditions within a broad range. The materials are stable in aqueous solution, non-toxic and biodegradable.

They have no odour and can be formed into micro- or nanoparticles, films or gels and derivatives of them can be formed into micelles or polymersomes to meet specific product application needs. The company is exploiting its technology with multinational companies in the household product and foods sectors.

Web www.vivamer.com

Contact details Prof. Nigel K.H. Slater

Director

Vivamer

William Gates Building

JJ Thompson Ave

Cambridge

CB3 0FD


8 REGULATIONS AND CONSUMER SAFETY Although it is likely that nanotechnology will lead to an overall enhancement of choice and

quality in the food and beverage sector, there are significant concerns about the safety of some

nanomaterials, in some situations. There is a recognition by Governments and others bodies

involved in ensuring the safety of food that current legislation may not be sufficient, and safety

data / assurances are needed before ‘manufactured’ nanoparticles can be used in foods and

beverages, and in food packaging materials. Also regulatory bodies are increasingly concerned

by safety issues posed by some nanomaterials, as a full understanding of potential risks is

limited at present. It has been stated that in this and other industries there is a lack of

fundamental knowledge on areas such as toxicology, exposure, generic risk assessment - and

therefore what legal framework should be applied.

Current legislation has permitted the use of nanoparticles in food-approved materials, based on

macroparticle safety tests. Replacement of macroscopic materials with nanomaterials has often

been regarded as a simple change in formulation of the product. There is no legal requirement


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for nanoparticles to be formally cleared as novel ingredients or additives, whether for direct or

indirect food use, and there is no specific requirement to indicate their presence on food labels.

However, in the absence of the complete picture of food safety / toxicology, it is increasingly

condsidered appropriate to regard nanomaterials as a separate class of either novel foods or

“new additives”, and to control them under one of the respective regulatory frameworks.

Food companies have historically worked to develop new and better products by manipulating

the structure and attributes of foods at the nanoscale. All foods gain their attributes directly

from the nanoscale structure and composition, so many companies need to understand, use and

manipulate these attributes in order to process various foods for mass markets, as has been

remarked earlier. However, food companies are sensitive to using the label ‘nano’ in their

products, as the term may have a negative connotation in some quarters, for example, some

consumer groups, especially when the exact application of the ‘nano’ in the product is not made

clear. ‘Nano’ in foods can range from the processing of foods, to the manipulation of their

structure, composition, taste, texture, colour and longevity.

Very recently (mid 2011) several international regulatory bodies, conscious of this lack of

knowledge and understanding by the public – and themselves! - have recently issued guidelines

on nano in food, or are seeking input from the various communities of interest. The current

situation is as follows:

8.1 The USA10

In the USA, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has taken a major step forward in the

regulation of nanotechnology in food. It recently opened a dialogue on nanotechnology in June

2011, by publishing proposed guidelines on how the agency will identify whether nanomaterials

have been used in FDA-regulated products. The guidelines, Draft Guidance for Industry,

Considering Whether an FDA-Regulated Product Involves the Application of Nanotechnology”

were published in the Federal Register.

According to the FDA Commissioner, the guidelines provide a starting point for the

nanotechnology discussion, with the goal of regulating nano-based products using the best

possible science. Understanding nanotechnology remains a top priority within the agency’s

regulatory science initiative so they will be ready to usher science, public health, and the FDA

into a new, more innovative era. The guidelines list things that might be considered when

deciding if nanotechnology was used on a product regulated by the FDA - including the size of

10 http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2011-06-14/html/2011-14643.htm


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the nanomaterials that were used, and what their properties are. The FDA wants industry

leaders and the public to be involved.

According to the director of the FDA’s emerging technology programs, nanotechnology is an

emerging technology that has the potential to be used in a broad array of FDA-regulated

medical products, foods, and cosmetics, but because materials in the nanoscale dimension may

have different chemical, physical, or biological properties from their larger counterparts, the

FDA is monitoring the technology to assure such use is beneficial.

The FDA-regulated industries are also exploring new uses for nanotechnology. The agency’s goal

is to protect and promote public health while also supporting innovation, and it will continue to

monitor advancements in nanotechnology and its use in regulated products. The agency

encourages industry consultation and will offer technical advice and guidance to manufacturers,

as needed, to enhance product development, benefit, and safety.

The FDA already has experience with regulating emerging technologies, and they expect that the

challenges of regulating nanotechnology are not unlike those related to other emerging and

cross-cutting scientific and policy issues. Agency experts haven’t identified specific safety

concerns involving nanotechnology in FDA regulated products, but nanomaterials can, in some

cases, raise safety issues. Because of this, FDA scientists continue to examine data to decide if

and when additional studies are needed.

The FDA says it is critical to understand how the changes in physical, chemical, or biological

properties that have been documented in nanomaterials affect the safety, effectiveness,

performance or quality of a product that contains nanomaterials. Because of this, the agency

has a robust science and research agenda to help answer these questions.

In 2006, FDA formed the Nanotechnology Task Force with an eye toward identifying and addressing ways

to evaluate the potential effects on health from FDA-regulated nanotechnology products. A year later, the

task force recommended that FDA issue guidelines to industry and take steps to address the potential

risks and benefits of drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, and other FDA-regulated products that

incorporate nanotechnology. The proposed guidelines are the first step toward developing policies that

guide regulation of products using nanotechnology. The agency plans to develop additional guidelines for

specific products in the future. The FDA is working with the White House, the National Nanotechnology


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Initiative, other U.S. government agencies, and international regulators to focus on generating data and

coordinating policy approaches to ensure the safety and effectiveness of products using nanomaterials.

8.2 The UK

The UK, in accordance with its membership of the European Union, views nanotechnology as an

emerging science, and if used to develop novel foods and processes, approval would be required

under the European 'Novel Foods Regulation' requirement (Regulation (EC) No 258/97) to

ensure products are safe. Novel Foods Regulation can be found on the European Commission

website. In the widest sense, nanotechnology and nanomaterials are a natural part of food

processing and conventional foods because the characteristic properties of many foods rely

naturally on nanometre sized components (such as nanoemulsions and foams). However, recent

technological developments have resulted in opening the door for manufactured nanoparticles

to be added to food. These could be as finely divided forms of existing ingredients, or

completely novel chemical structures.

The FSA (Food Standards Agency) is the UK body responsible for the assessment of novel foods.

If a company wants authorisation to market food produced using nanotechnology, the Agency is

obliged to assess the food safety implications. The FSA will not assess the safety of using

nanotechnology in the food chain unless it is asked to do so. During any such safety

assessment, the Agency will consult an independent advisory committee, the Advisory

Committee on Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP). The ACNFP comprises experts who advise

the Agency on a wide range of new foods and food technologies.

The assessment of the food or food ingredient includes details of the composition, nutritional

value, metabolism, intended use and the level of microbiological and chemical contaminants.

Where appropriate, this might also include studies into the potential for toxic, nutritional and

allergenic effects. Details of the manufacturing process used to process the food or food

ingredient are also considered, because novel food production processes can render a food

‘novel’ if it alters the final composition of the food.

The assessment of nanomaterials follows the guidance issued by the European Food Safety

Authority in May 2011 (see the 'Risk Assessment' section below). As well as carrying out the


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scientific safety assessment, the ACNFP would also consider consumer concerns and ethical

issues.

8.2.1 UK Food Safety Agency research projects.

Two food safety projects were completed in 2008. One project gathered information on the new

and potential applications of nanotechnology in the UK to materials and articles in contact with

food, specifically in the context of potential chemical migration into food.

The second project carried out an assessment of the potential use of nanomaterials as food

additives or food ingredients. Consumer safety and regulatory implications arising from

potential uses were considered..

The Agency has also commissioned two research projects in 2010 to look at the ways in which

nanomaterials enter the human body and what happens to them once they are there. More

information about this research (project codes T01061 and T01062) can be found at the links at

the end of this section. In addition, the Agency is jointly funding a project on the

characterisation, detection and measurement of nanoparticles in food. More information about

this research (project code: G03033) can also be found at the link at the end of this section.

8.2.2 Nanotechnologies and Food Discussion Group.

The aim of the Food Discussion Group is to help the FSA take forward some of the

recommendations from the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee 2010 report into

nanotechnologies and food, (check this out) and to exchange information between different

sectors within the nanotechnologies and food groups. These include:

intelligence gathering to determine what, if any, nanotechnology research is being

carried out by the food industry

ways in which to develop a register of nanotechnology-enabled foods and food contact

materials on the UK market

In February 2009, the House of Lords Committee on Science and Technology launched an inquiry

into nanotechnologies and food. The Agency and other relevant bodies were called to give

evidence. In January 2010, the committee published its report on the inquiry. The report, which

can be found under ‘External links’ towards the end of this page, made a total of thirty two


78

recommendations and conclusions. The Government response to the committee’s report was

published on 25 March 2011

8.2.3 Consumer engagement and public attitudes

The FSA commissioned TNS-BMRB, an independent research company, to carry out research

into UK consumer awareness and attitudes of nanotechnologies in the food sector. The

research, which was conducted between November 2010 and February 2011, and published in

April 2011, revealed that consumer awareness about nanotechnologies in relation to food was

generally low. Consumers were concerned about safety, particularly long term safety, and

impacts on the environment. There was a greater acceptance of certain types of potential

applications than others and a general skepticism about industry’s motives for developing these

technologies. Overall, consumers wanted more information and transparency.

8.3 Europe

In February 2009, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published its opinion on the

potential risks arising from nanoscience and nanotechnologies in food and feed. The main

conclusions from the opinion are:

the current risk assessment paradigm is appropriate for nanomaterials

there are limited data on oral exposure to nanomaterials and any consequent toxicity

there are limited methods to characterise, detect, and measure nanomaterials in

food/feed

Toxicological and toxicokinetic profiles of nanomaterials cannot be determined by extrapolation

from data on their equivalent non-nano forms. Their view is a case by case approach is needed.

Read the opinion on the EFSA webs

8.3.1 Risk assessment guidance.

Building on its first opinion, in May 2011, the EFSA published a guidance document for the risk

assessment of engineered nanomaterials in food, food contact materials, animal feed and

pesticides.The EFSA’s guidance will be used whenever products of nanotechnology are

evaluated for food or feed applications in the EU. An FSA expert was part of the EFSA group that

drew up the guidance.

http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/doc/958.pdf


79

The Agency is represented on a nanotechnologies network that EFSA set up in February 2011.

This network provides a platform for the exchange of information and will help to harmonise

risk assessment approaches across EU member states.

More information about nanotechnology and food can be found at the link below, in a paper

sent to the FSA Board in April 2006 and in the written evidence that the Food Standards Agency

submitted to the House of Lords inquiry in March 2009.

Further information about nanotechnology can be found in a report presenting the findings of a

review to identify potential gaps in regulation or risk assessment relating to the use of

nanotechnologies and food. See the report, which the FSA consulted on in 2006, at the link

below. In addition, see the summary of comments on the consultation at

http://www.food.gov.uk/multimedia/pdfs/consultationresponse/nanoconsultsummary.pdf

published in August 2008.

8.3.2 Approach to Regulation by the European Food Safety Authority

On 10 May 2011, The European Food Safety Authority published a guidance document for the

risk assessment of engineered nanomaterial (ENM) applications in food and feed. The guidance

is the work of the Authority’s Scientific Committee and is the first of its kind to give practical

guidance for addressing potential risks arising from applications of nanoscience and

nanotechnologies in the food and feed chain. The guidance covers risk assessments for food and

feed applications including food additives, enzymes, flavourings, food contact materials, novel

foods, feed additives and pesticides.

The EFSA guidance, prepared in response to a request from the European Commission, sets out

the considerations for risk assessment of ENM that may arise from their specific characteristics

and properties. Importantly, the ENM guidance complements existing guidance documents for

substances and products submitted for risk assessment in view of their possible authorisation in

food and feed. It stipulates the additional data needed for the physical and chemical

characterisation of ENM in comparison with conventional applications and outlines different

toxicity testing approaches to be followed by applicants.

The Chair of EFSA’s Scientific Committee, commented on the publication of the EFSA guidance,

“A thorough characterisation of the engineered nanomaterials followed by adequate toxicity

testing is essential for the risk assessment of these applications. Yet we recognise uncertainties

related to the suitability of certain existing test methodologies and the availability of data for


80

ENM applications in food and feed. The guidance makes recommendations about how risk

assessments should reflect these uncertainties for food and feed applications.”

To assist with the practical use of the guidance, six scenarios are presented which outline

different toxicity testing approaches. For each scenario, the guidance indicates the type of

testing required.

EFSA conducted a public consultation on its preparatory work, acknowledging the importance of

developing risk assessment methodologies in this field to support innovation whilst ensuring the

safety of food and feed. In total 256 comments were received from 36 organisations spanning

from academia, NGOs, industry to Member State and international authorities. All of these

contributions were considered and incorporated into the guidance document where

appropriate.

Risk assessment of engineered nanomaterials is under fast development and consequently, in

keeping with EFSA’s commitment to review its guidance for risk assessment on an ongoing basis,

this work will be revised as appropriate.

Guidance on the risk assessment of the application of nanoscience and nanotechnologies in the

food and feed chain

Outcome of the public consultation on the draft scientific opinion on Guidance on risk

assessment concerning potential risks arising from applications of nanoscience and

nanotechnologies to food and feed

8.4 Further reading: A Review for the UK Health & Safety Executive

www.hse.gov.uk/horizons/nanotech/regulatoryreview.pdf

A (draft) Review for the UK Food Standards Agency

www.food.gov.uk/multimedia/pdfs/nanotech.pdf

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Nanotechnology White Paper

www.epa.gov/osa/nanotech.htm

Regulation and the OECD. A paper prepared by the Allianz Group to asses the risks of its

involvement in nano

http://www.oecd.org/dataoecd/32/1/44108334.pdf

http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/2140.htm

http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/2140.htm

http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/supporting/pub/126e.htm



http://www.epa.gov/osa/nanotech.htm

http://www.oecd.org/dataoecd/32/1/44108334.pdf


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9 GLOSSARY OF TERMS Term Description

AFM atomic force microscopy/microscope

Anions An ion consists of one or more atoms and carries a unit charge of electricity. Those that are negative

ions (hydroxyl and acidic atoms or groups) are called anions (cf. cation).

Assembler A general-purpose device for molecular manufacturing, capable of guiding chemical reactions by

positioning molecules.

Atom The smallest unit of a chemical element, about a third of a nanometre in diameter. Atoms make up

molecules and solid objects.

Atomic force microscopy /

microscope (AFM)

Atomic force microscopy is a technique for analysing the surface of a rigid material all the way down

to the level of the atom. The atomic force microscope was invented in 1986 uses a mechanical probe

to magnify surface features up to 100 000 000 times, and produces 3D images of the surface. AFM

uses various forces that occur when two objects are brought within nanometres of each other. An

AFM can work either when the probe is in contact with a surface, causing a repulsive force, or when it

is a few nanometres away, where the force is attractive. AFM is being used to understand materials

problems in many areas, including data storage, telecommunications, biomedicine, chemistry, and

aerospace. AFM is derived from a related technology, called scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM).

The difference is that AFM does not require the sample to conduct electricity, whereas STM does.

AFM also works in regular room temperatures, while STM requires special temperature and other

conditions.

Bar A unit of pressure equal to one million (106) dynes, equivalent to 10 newtons, per square centimetre.

This is approximately the pressure exerted by Earth's atmosphere at sea level.

BioMEMS Miniaturization engineering or MEMS applied to biotechnology or medicine. In BioMEMS the number

of materials involved is much larger than in a comparable electronics application. Both instruments

and sensors are used in BioMEMS. Applications include: forensic science (e.g. DNA); clinical diagnostics

(e.g. glucose in blood); product development (e.g. new drug); and quality control (e.g. pH of swimming

pools).

Biomimetics The concept of taking ideas from nature, operating on the nanoscale, and implementing them in a

technology such as engineering, design, computing or other areas.

Bottom-up Building organic and inorganic structures atom-by-atom, or molecule-by-molecule. Cf. top-down.

Brownian assembly Brownian motion in a fluid brings molecules together in various position and orientations. If molecules

have suitable complementary surfaces, they can bind, assembling to form a specific structure.

Brownian assembly is a less paradoxical name for self-assembly.

Brownian motion Motion of a particle in a fluid owing to thermal agitation.

Buckminsterfullerene A sphere of sixty carbon atoms, also called a buckyball. Named after the architect Buckminster Fuller,

who is famous for the geodesic dome that buckyballs resemble.

Buckyball A popular name for Buckminsterfullerene.

CAIBE Chemically assisted ion beam etching.

Carbon black Carbon black is a powdered form of elemental carbon. The primary use of carbon black is in rubber

products, mainly tyres and other automotive products, but also in many other rubber products such as

hoses, gaskets and coated fabrics. Much smaller amounts of carbon black are used in inks and paints,

plastics and in the manufacture of dry-cell batteries.


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Carbon nanotubes Two types of nanotube exist: the single-walled carbon nanotubes, so called ‘buckytubes’, and

multilayer carbon nanotubes. Both consist of graphite carbon and typically have an internal diameter

of 5nm and an external diameter of 10nm. Many applications are envisaged: space and aircraft

manufacture, automobiles, and construction. Multilayer carbon nanotubes are in commercial use.

Buckytubes are some way off commercial production.

CARs Chemically amplified resists.

Catalyst A substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction by reducing the activation energy, but

which is left unchanged by the reaction. A catalyst works by providing a convenient surface for the

reaction to occur. The reacting particles gather on the catalyst surface and either collide more

frequently with each other or more of the collisions result in a reaction between particles because the

catalyst can lower the activation energy for the reaction.

Catenane The latest molecular switches are created using unique molecules, called catenanes, which consist of

two tiny mechanically interlocked rings, each ring composed of atoms linked in a circle. Catenanes are

an improvement over rotaxane molecules. Rotaxanes are in a solution state and are much more

incoherent.

Cations An ion consists of one or more atoms and carries a unit charge of electricity. Those that are positively

electrified (hydrogen and the metals) are called cations (cf. anion).

Cell A small structural unit, surrounded by a membrane, making up living things.

Chemical vapour

deposition (CVD)

A technique used to deposit coatings, where chemicals are first vaporized, and then applied using an

inert carrier gas such as nitrogen.

Chromatography The physical method of separation in which the components to be separated are distributed between

two phases, one of which is stationary while the other moves in a definite direction. Chromatography

is a widely used for the separation, identification, and determination of the chemical components in

complex mixtures.

Cyclodextrin Natural polysaccharide deriving from chitin, chitosan is cationic in acidic media

Complementary metal-

oxide semiconductor

(CMOS)

The semiconductor technology used in the transistors that are manufactured into most of today's

computer microchips.

Composites Combinations of metals, ceramics, polymers, and biological materials that allow multi-functional

behaviour. One common practice is reinforcing polymers or ceramics with ceramic fibres to increase

strength while retaining light weight and avoiding the brittleness of the monolithic ceramic. Materials

used in the body often combine biological and structural functions (e.g., the encapsulation of drugs).

Dendrimer A dendrimer is an artificially manufactured or synthesized large molecule comprised of many smaller

ones linked together - built up from branched units called monomers. Technically, dendrimers are a

unique class of a polymer, about the size of an average protein, with a compact, tree-like molecular

structure, which provides a high degree of surface functionality and versatility. The shape of

dendrimers give them vast amounts of surface area, making them useful building blocks and carrier

molecules at the nanoscale and they come in a variety of forms, with different physical (including

optical, electrical and chemical) properties. For example, dendrimers can act as biologically active

carrier molecules in drug delivery to which can be attached therapeutic agents and as scavengers of

metal ions, offering the potential for environmental clean-up operations because their size allows

them to be filtered out with ultra-filtration techniques.

Diode A diode is a specialized electronic component with two electrodes called the anode and the cathode.

Most diodes are made with semiconductor materials such as silicon, germanium, or selenium. Diodes

can be used as rectifiers, signal limiters, voltage regulators, switches, signal modulators, signal mixers,

signal demodulators, and oscillators.


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Dip pen nanolithography A direct-write soft lithography technique that is used to create nanostructures on a substrate of

interest by delivering collections of molecules via capillary transport from an AFM tip to a surface.

DNA DeoxyriboNucleic Acid. DNA is a code used within cells to form proteins.

DNA chip A purpose built microchip used to identify mutations or alterations in a gene's DNA.

DRAM Dynamic random access memory.

Dry nanotechnology Derives from surface science and physical chemistry, focuses on fabrication of structures in carbon

silicon, and other inorganic materials. Unlike the ‘wet’ technology, ‘dry’ techniques admit use of

metals and semiconductors. The active conduction electrons of these materials make them too

reactive to operate in a ‘wet’ environment, but these same electrons provide the physical properties

that make ‘dry’ nanostructures promising as electronic, magnetic, and optical devices. Another

objective is to develop ‘dry’ structures that possess some of the same attributes of the self-assembly

that the wet ones exhibit.

EAPs ElectroActive Polymers

Elastomeric stamp or

mould

Key element in soft lithography usually made from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), having patterned

relief structures on its surface.

Elastomers Cross-linked high-polymer materials with elastic behaviour.

Electronic nose Nanotechnology used to detect odours. The task of a sensor of an electronic nose is, like that of a

sensory neuron in the olfactory epithelium, to convert the contact of an odorous molecule into a

detectable signal.

Electro scanning

microscope (ESM)

Used for the study of surface morphology and the determination of the thickness of MBE grown films.

Electrospinning Electrospinning uses an electrical charge to form a mat of fine fibres. Electrospinning shares

characteristics of both the commercial electrospray technique and the commercial spinning of fibres.

Embossing Creation of a 3D design or image on paper or other material.

Enzymes Molecular machines found in nature made of protein, which can catalyse (speed up) chemical

reactions.

ESM Electro scanning microscope.

EU European Union.

Extracellular matrix (ECM) A complex structural entity surrounding and supporting cells that are found within mammalian

tissues. The ECM is often referred to as the connective tissue. The ECM is composed of three major

classes of biomolecules: structural proteins (collagen and elastin) specialized proteins (e.g. fibrillin,

fibronectin, and laminin); and proteoglycans: (composed of a protein core to which is attached long

chains of repeating disaccharide units termed of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) forming extremely

complex high molecular weight components of the ECM).

FCVA Filtered cathodic vacuum arc.

Ferrofluids Also known as magnetic liquids, they are re stable colloidal suspensions of single domain particles of

ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials. They have existed for more than sixty years but the

concentrated fluids that are used today first appeared in 1965. Ferrofluids consist of very small

magnetic particles held in suspension in a carrier liquid by a surface active layer. The carrier liquid is

selected to meet the particular application and can be a hydrocarbon, ester, perfluoropolyether,

water, etc.


85

FIB Focussed ion beam.

“Extreme” nanotechnology Builds structures from the ‘bottom up’. It encompasses atomic and molecular manipulation and self-

assembly, including single electron devices using electron tunnel junctions and quantum computing

and cryptography.11

Fluorocarbons Fluorocarbons is a general term for any group of synthetic organic compounds that contain fluorine

and carbon.

Fullerene A fullerene is a pure carbon molecule composed of at least 60 atoms of carbon. They are cage-like

structures of carbon atoms; the most abundant form produced is Buckminster-fullerene (C60), with

sixty carbon atoms arranged in a spherical structure. Because a fullerene takes a shape similar to a

soccer ball or a geodesic dome, it is sometimes referred to as a buckyball after the inventor of the

geodesic dome, Buckminster Fuller, for whom the fullerene is more formally named.

Functional nanotechnology Applications in which nanostructures are used to produce improved optical, electronic or magnetic

properties. Includes nanoelectronics based on quantum effects.

Gbps Billions of bits per second. A measure of bandwidth on a digital data transmission medium such as

optical fibre.

Genomics The study of the full complement of genes that make up an organism.

HRTEM High resolution transmission electron microscopy.

ICP-MS Inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy

Ion An atom or group of atoms in which the number of electrons is different from the number of protons.

If the number of electrons is less than the number of protons, the particle is a positive ion, also called

a cation. If the number of electrons is greater than the number of protons, the particle is a negative

ion, also called an anion.

Langmuir-Blodgett The name of a nanofabrication technique used to create ultrathin films (monolayers and isolated

molecular layers), the end result of which is called a Langmuir-Blodgett film.

LCD Liquid crystal display.

Liquid crystal display (LCD) Technology used for displays in notebook and other smaller computers. LCDs allow displays to be

much thinner than cathode ray tube technology. LCDs consume much less power because they work

on the principle of blocking light rather than emitting it.

LED Light emitting diode.

Light emitting diode (LED) A semiconductor device that emits visible light when an electric current passes through it. The light is

not particularly bright, but in most LEDs it is monochromatic, occurring at a single wavelength. The

output from an LED can range from red (at a wavelength of ~700nm) to blue-violet (~400nm).

Magnetorheological fluids Magnetorheological fluids are stable suspensions of magnetically polarisable micron sized particles

suspended in a low volatility carrier fluid, usually a synthetic hydrocarbon.

11 EPSRC Theme Day, http://www.epsrc.ac.uk/CMSWeb/Downloads/Other/NanotechnologyThemeday2005.pdf


86

Magnetron sputtering Magnetron sputtering involves the creation of a plasma by the application of a large DC potential

between two parallel plates. A static magnetic field is applied near a sputtering target and confines

the plasma to the vicinity of the target. Ions from the high-density plasma sputter material,

predominantly in the form of neutral atoms, from the target onto a substrate.

MBE Molecular beam epitaxy.

MEMS MicroElectroMechanical Systems.

MicroElectroMechanical

Systems (MEMS)

Technology used to integrate various electro-mechanical functions onto integrated circuits. A typical

MEMS device combines a sensor and logic to perform a monitoring function. Examples include sensing

devices used to control the deployment of airbags in cars and switching devices used in optical

telecommunications cables.

Microfluidics Liquid streams used to separate, control, or analyze at the nanoscale.

Molecular beam epitaxy

(MBE)

Process used to make compound (multi-layer) semiconductors. Consists of depositing alternating

layers of materials, layer by layer, one type after another (such as the semiconductors gallium

arsenide and aluminium gallium arsenide).

Molecular computing Molecular computing could replace silicon-based computing by the end of the decade.

Molecular electronics Any system with atomically precise electronic devices of nanometre dimensions, especially if made of

discrete molecular parts rather than the continuous materials found in today's semiconductor devices.

Molecular machines Molecular machines are proteins that convert (electro)chemical energy generated across a membrane

into external mechanical work. They are responsible for a wide variety of functions from muscle

contraction to cell locomotion, copying and processing DNA, movement of chromosomes, cellular

division, movement of neurotransmitter-containing vesicles, and production of ATP etc.

Molecular motors The mechanical properties of molecular motors can be thought of in terms of rectifying thermal

ratchets and impedance matching lever systems (that couple enzyme-active sites to external loads).

For many of the systems it is now possible to reconstitute their function using purified proteins and to

observe and measure the forces and movements that they produce during a single chemical cycle. In

other words, the mechanochemical processes at the level of a single molecule can be measured.

Furthermore, ‘man-made’ molecular motors are being developed based either on hybrid

constructions of existing biological motors (rotary and linear) or made from man-made materials but

using molecular-motor design principles.

Molecular-scale

manufacturing

Manufacturing using molecular machinery, giving molecule-by-molecule control of products and by-

products via positional chemical synthesis.

Molecular switch A molecular switch is a logic gate, a necessary computing component in molecular computing used to

represent the binary language of digital computing. Molecular switches would be many times cheaper

than traditional solid-state devices, and would allow for continued miniaturization and increases in

power that silicon-based components would never be able to reach.

Molecular wire A quasi-one-dimensional molecule that can transport charge carriers (electrons or holes) between its

ends.

Molecule Group of atoms held together by chemical bonds, a molecule is the typical unit manipulated by

nanotechnology.

Mesoporous Mesoporous materials are porous materials with regularly arranged, uniform mesopores (2-50nm in

diameter). Their large surface areas make them useful as adsorbents or catalysts.


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Modelling Aims to provide the quanti-tative understanding of physical systems and processes. It ranges from

offering a framework of understanding to quanti-tative predictions based on state of the art

calculations. At the nanoscale, modelling can analyse and predict properties of systems, processes and

other phenomena in ways that complement experiment.

Molecular (including bio-

molecular) nanotechnology

Molecular sensing and molecular recognition. Much of the research is at the interface between the life

and physical sciences. This includes: lab-on-a-chip and smart sensors for medical and environmental

monitoring and diagnosis; tissue repair; targeted drug delivery. At the single cell level: gene therapy

and screening; drug testing; design of nanomachines; replacement structures.

Moore's Law The observation made in 1965 by Gordon Moore, co-founder of Intel, that the number of transistors

per square inch on integrated circuits had doubled every year since the integrated circuit was

invented. Moore predicted that this trend would continue for the foreseeable future.

MWNT Multi-walled nanotubes.

nano A prefix meaning one billionth (1/1 000 000 000).

Nanobiotechnology Nanotechnology integrated into the biology realm, in particular into molecular biology and cell

biology. At the interface between biotechnology and nanotechnology, nanobiotechnologists carry out

research on the phenomena of self-assembly or self-organisation of biomolecules such as cell

membranes or virus particles, in order to adapt these principles to the technical production of

nanostructures.

Nanocomposites Polymer/inorganic nanocomposites are composed of two or more physically distinct components (e.g.

metals, ceramics, polymers and biological materials) with one or more average dimensions smaller

than 100nm. From the structural point of view, the role of inorganic filler, usually as particles or fibres,

is to provide intrinsic strength and stiffness while the polymer matrix can adhere to and bind the

inorganic component so that forces applied to the composite are transmitted evenly to the filler. The

material’s properties, e.g. hardness, transparency, porosity are altered.

Nanocrystal Molecular-sized solids formed with a repeating, 3D pattern of atoms or molecules with an equal

distance between each part. Nanocrystals are aggregates of anywhere from a few hundred to tens of

thousands of atoms that combine into a crystalline form of matter known as a ‘cluster’. Typically

around 10nm in diameter, nanocrystals are larger than molecules but smaller than bulk solids and

therefore frequently exhibit physical and chemical properties somewhere in-between. Nanocrystals

are believed to have potential in optical electronics because of their ability to change the wavelength

of light.

Nano-electromechanical

systems (NEMS)

Devices and machines, an extension of present-day micro machines and micro actuators into the nano

domain. Protein motors, capable of linear or rotary motion. DNA and active devices such as

nanowires, switches, motors and tweezers.

Nanoelectronics Electronics on a nanometre scale, whether made by current techniques or nanotechnology; includes

both molecular electronics and nanoscale devices resembling today's semiconductor devices.

Nanofabrication Using ‘top down’ techniques for the manufacture of materials with dimensions less than 100 nm,

involving lithographic techniques beyond the optical domain using electron beam and X-ray

lithography. Advanced manufacturing processes and instrumentation for manipulation at the

nanoscale, including scanning probe techniques, focused ion beam technology and nanomanipulators.

Nanofibres Hollow and solid carbon fibres with lengths on the order of a few microns and widths varying from

tens of nanometres to around 200nm.

Nanofiltration Nanofiltration is a pressure-driven membrane process that can separate molecules in the 200-1000

Dalton range. It can be used either to allow valuable molecules to permeate through the membrane

(retaining impurities or unwanted materials) or to retain valuable materials (product, catalyst, etc.)


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whilst allowing the other components of the fluid to permeate through the membrane.

Nanofluidics Controlling nanoscale amounts of fluids.

Nanolithography Nanolithography is the art and science of etching, writing, or printing at the microscopic level, where

the dimensions of characters are on the order of nanometres. This includes various methods of

modifying semiconductor chips at the atomic level for the purpose of fabricating integrated circuits

(ICs). Instruments used in nanolithography include the scanning tunnelling microscope (STM) and the

atomic force microscope (AFM). Both allow surface viewing in fine detail without necessarily

modifying it. Either the STM or the AFM can be used to etch, write, or print on a surface in single-atom

dimensions.

Nanomanipulation The process of manipulating items at an atomic or molecular scale in order to produce precise

structures.

Nanometre One billionth of a metre / 10-9m, / a millionth of a millimetre.

Nanometrology Precise measurement below 100nm and development of measurement techniques.

Nanophotonics Nanophotonics is the nano-engineering of light-matter interactions so that new phenomena of physics

can be utilized to develop novel optoelectronics devices which can be well beyond the capability of

the conventional photonics and electronics.

Nanopores Nanoscopic pores found in purpose-built filters, sensors, or diffraction gratings.

Nanoscale Between 0.1-100nm.

Nano-science Nanoscience is concerned with obtaining an understanding of fundamental phenomena, properties

and functions at the nano-scale, that are not scalable outside the nanometre domain.

Nanospring A nanowire wrapped into a helix.

Nanostructured materials Where grain and composite size is less than 100nm, offering potential for stronger, more wear and

corrosion resistant materials. These include carbon nanotubes, biomaterials, thin films, anti-corrosion

coatings, colloids and nanopowders.

Nanotechnology Nanotechnology is the term used to cover the design, construction and utilization of functional

structures with at least one characteristic dimension measured in nanometres. Such materials and

systems can be designed to exhibit novel and significantly improved physical, chemical and biological

properties, phenomena and processes as a result of the limited size of their constituent particles or

molecules. The reason for such interesting and very useful behaviour is that when characteristic

structural features are intermediate in extent between isolated atoms and bulk macroscopic

materials; i.e., in the range of about 10-9m to 10-7 m (1 to 100 nm), the objects may display physical

attributes substanti-ally different from those displayed by either atoms or bulk materials. Ultimately

this can lead to new technological opportunities as well as new challenges.

Nanotube Nanotubes are a material with remarkable tensile strength. Nanotube-based materials are anti-

cipated to become 50-100 times stronger than steel at one-sixth of the weight. Nanotubes are a one-

dimensional fullerene (a convex cage of atoms with only hexagonal and/or pentagonal faces) with a

cylindrical shape.

Nanowires One-dimensional structures, with unique electrical and optical properties, that are used as building

blocks in nanoscale devices.

NEMS NanoElectroMechanical Systems.

nm Nanometre.


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organic LED An LED made from carbon-based molecules, not semiconductors.

PEO Poly(ethylene oxide)

Photolithography The technique used to produce the silicon chips that make up modern-day computers. The traditional

process involves shining light through a mask onto a photosensitive polymer (photoresist) on a silicon

surface, then subsequently removing the exposed areas.

Photonics Electronics using light (photons) instead of electrons to manage data.

Physical vapour deposition

(PVD)

Along with CVD, a group of surface treatments applied on tools and machine elements. In the area of

machining and tooling PVD coatings are widely used to increase the life and productivity of production

tools and therefore reducing manufacturing costs.

Pilling formation Pilling formation is a phenomenon that results from the abrasion process and affects fabrics by

altering their surface.

Polymers Tiny molecules strung in long repeating chains form polymers. DNA is a polymer as are the proteins

and starches in foods and the tyres on bikes and cars. Polymers are generally recyclable. In

nanotechnology examples include organic-based materials that emit light when an electric current is

applied to them and vica versa, and use in computing and energy conversion.

Proteomics Refers to all the proteins expressed by a genome, and thus proteomics involves the identification of

proteins in the body and the determination of their role in physiological and pathophysiological

functions.

PVD Physical vapour deposition.

Quantum computer A computer that takes advantage of quantum mechanical properties such as superposition and

entanglement resulting from nanoscale, molecular, atomic and subatomic components.

Quantum dot Fluorescent nanoparticles that are invisible until ‘lit up’ by ultraviolet light. A nanoscale crystalline

structure that can transform the colour of light. The quantum dot is considered to have greater

flexibility than other fluorescent materials, which makes it suited to use in building nanoscale

computing applications where light is used to process information. They are made from a variety of

different compounds, such as cadmium selenide that produce different colours of light. Quantum dots

have potential applications in telecommunications and optics.

Quantum wire Another form of quantum dot, but unlike the single-dimension ‘dot’, a quantum wire is confined only

in two dimensions - that is it has ‘length’, and allows the electrons to propagate in a ‘particle-like’

fashion. Constructed typically on a semiconductor base.

Reactive ion etching (RIE) This is a key aspect in integrated circuit engineering and serves to transfer a pre-defined pattern into

the required substrate anisotropically through an interplay between the chemical reactive radicals and

physical ion bombardment in the plasma. In the semiconductor industry, this technology is used in the

fabrication of advanced devices for high-speed electronics and optoelectronics.

Scanning electron

microscopy (SEM)

Utilized in medical science and biology and in such diverse fields as materials development, metallic

materials, ceramics, and semiconductors. SEM involves the manipulation of an e-beam that is scanned

across the surface of specially prepared specimens to obtain a greatly enlarged, high-resolution image

of the specimen's exposed structure. Specimens are scanned with a very fine probe (‘tip’) and the

strength of interaction between the tip and surface us monitored. The specimen can be observed

whole for assessing external structure or freeze-fracture techniques can be used to image internal

structures. STM led to the development of a related technology, atomic force microscopy.

Scanning force microscope

(SFM)

A SFM works by detecting the vertical position of a probe while horizontally scanning the probe or the

sample relative to the other. The probe is in physical contact with the sample and its vertical position

is detected by detecting the position of a reflected laser beam with a photo diode that consists of two


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or four segments.

scanning near field optical microscopy (SNOM)

The operational principle behind near-field optical imaging involves illuminating a specimen through a

sub-wavelength sized aperture whilst keeping the specimen within the near-field regime of the

source. Broadly speaking, if the aperture-specimen separation is kept roughly less than half the

diameter of the aperture, the source does not have the opportunity to diffract before it interacts with

the sample and the resolution of the system is determined by the aperture diameter as oppose to the

wavelength of light used. An image is built up by raster-scanning the aperture across the sample and

recording the optical response of the specimen through a conventional far-field microscope objective.

(As opposed to conventional optical microscopy or ‘far-field optical microscopy’).

Scanning probe microscope

(SPM)

In SPM a nanoscopic probe is maintained at a constant height over a bed of atoms. The probe can be

positioned so close to individual atoms that the electrons of the probe-tip and atom begin to interact.

These interactions can be strong enough to ‘lift’ the atom and move it to another place.

Scanning Probe Microscopy Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) has revolutionised our ability to characterise the surface

morphologies of complex and difficult materials. Since the earliest scanning tunnelling microscopy

images revealed the arrangements of atoms in semiconductor surfaces, the capability of SPM for the

visualisation of surface structures has been clear

Scanning tunnelling

microscope (STM)

A device that obtains images of the atoms on the surfaces of materials - important for understanding

the topographical and electrical properties of materials and the behaviour of microelectronic devices.

The STM is not an optical microscope; instead it works by detecting electrical forces with a probe that

tapers down to a point only a single atom across. The probe in the STM sweeps across the surface of

which an image is to be obtained. The electron shells, or clouds, surrounding the atoms on the surface

produce irregularities that are detected by the probe and mapped by a computer into an image.

Because of the quantum mechanical effect called ‘tunnelling’ electrons can hop between the tip and

the surface. The resolution of the image is in the order of 1nm or less.

SEM Scanning electron microscope.

Semiconductor A substance, usually a solid chemical element or compound, that can conduct electricity under some

conditions but not others, making it a good medium for the control of electrical current. Its

conductance varies depending on the current or voltage applied to a control electrode, or on the

intensity of irradiation by infrared (IR), visible light, ultraviolet (UV), or X rays.

SFM Scanning force microscope.

Sol-gels Sol–gel methods involve a set of chemical reactions which irreversibly convert a homogeneous

solution of molecular reactant precursors (a sol) into an infinite molecular weight three-dimensional

polymer (a gel) forming an elastic solid filling the same volume as the solution. Typically this involves a

hydrolysis reaction followed by condensation polymerization.

Spintronics Electronics that exploits the spin of an electron in some way, rather than just its charge.

Self-assembling

monolayers (SAMs)

Organic or inorganic substances spontaneously form a layer one molecule thick on a surface.

Additional layers can be added, leading to laminates where each layer is just one molecule in depth.

There is a wide range of applications, based on properties ranging from being chemically active to

being wear resistant.

Self-assembly Refers to the use in materials processing or fabrication of the tendency of some materials to organize

themselves into ordered arrays (e.g., colloidal suspensions). This provides a means to achieve

structured materials "from the bottom up" as opposed to using manufacturing or fabrication methods

such as lithography, which is limited by the measurement and instrumentation capabilities of the day.

For example, organic polymers have been tagged with dye molecules to form arrays with lattice

spacing in the visible optical wavelength range and that can be changed through chemical means. This


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provides a material that fluoresces and changes colour to indicate the presence of chemical species.

Smart materials Reactive materials that combine sensors and actuators, and possibly computers, to enable a response

to environmental conditions and changes to those conditions. Applications include uniforms or aircraft

skins fabricated from radar-absorbing materials that incorporate avionic links and the ability to modify

shape in response to airflow.

SNOM Scanning near field optical microscopy.

SPM Scanning probe microscope.

STM Scanning tunnelling microscope.

SWNT Single walled nanotubes.

Thin films Thin films are atomically engineered layers of a wide variety of materials including metals, insulators

and semiconductors. The major applications of thin films are in modification of the surface properties

of solids. Individual films may be electrically conductive or non-conducting, hard or soft, thermally

conducting or insulating, optically transparent, or opaque. A thin film coating can transform the

electrical, mechanical and/or optical properties of a solid base material in a cost-effective way.

Common examples are scratch-resistant coatings for spectacles, anti-reflection coatings for lenses,

transparent conducting coatings for flat-panel displays, and low-friction coatings for bearings. Hard

coatings can significantly enhance the lifetime of cutting, drilling, and forming tools. Oxygen and

moisture barrier films are in widespread use in the packaging of foodstuffs, contributing to the long

shelf life of many convenience foods. Thin film coatings also have unique properties that may be

exploited in the polarization, reflection, transmission and absorption of light. Complex coatings can be

used to provide eye-protection from lasers without significant reduction in overall transmission and

other high-performance films are in use for the multiplexing of telecommunication laser signals. Other

inherent properties of thin films are used in microelectronics, magnetic recording and optical

recording media.

Top-down Refers to making nanoscale structures by machining and etching techniques. cf. bottom-up.

Wet nanotechnology The study of biological systems that exist primarily in a water environment. The functional nanometre-

scale structures of interest here are genetic material, membranes, enzymes and other cellular

components. The success of this nanotechnology is amply demonstrated by the existence of living

organisms whose form, function, and evolution are governed by the interactions of nanometre-scale

structures.

Zeolite Any one of a family of hydrous aluminum silicate minerals, whose molecules enclose cations of

sodium, potassium, calcium, strontium, or barium, or a corresponding synthetic compound, used

chiefly as molecular filters and ion-exchange agents. Zeolite nanocrystals can act as hosts for

supramolecular organization of molecules, complexes and clusters, thus encouraging the design of

precise functionalities. The main role of the zeolite framework is to provide the desired geometrical

properties for arranging and stabilizing the incorporated species.

Nanotech in Food, Beverage and Related Packaging...

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