Reminder : what does the INCO 1169/2011 regulation state regarding the use of nanomaterials in the food industry ?
In the food industry, the use of nanomaterials is becoming more and more widespread, especially in packaging where silver nanoparticles can be used for their antibacterial properties. Other nanoparticles such as Titanium dioxide (TiO2), Silicon dioxide (SiO2) or even Iron oxide are used in food products to improve texture, color or eve, viscosity. Used as dyes, thickeners or preservatives, TiO2, SiO2 and Fe2O3 are better known as food additives E551, E171 and E172 respectively.
However, the impact of this new technology is having on human and environmental health is still unknown. Many studies have shown the adverse effects nanoparticles cab have on the human body when inhaled or ingested. Because of this it is essential to declare the presence of nanoparticles being produced, used and distributed to ensure their traceability. (“R-Nano” declaration in France).
FILAB can assist you in inspecting nanoparticles found in your packaging or food products
FILAB : 1st French laboratory to receive ISO 17025 accreditation for nanoparticle characterization!*
FILAB provides a compilation of services centered around nanomaterials, namely those that can be found in the food industry. Our laboratory is equipped with many machines capable of characterizing nanomaterials.
Relying on our experts, FILAB is able to provide the following services :
- Detection of nanoparticles and nanomaterials in food products or packaging
- Nanometric classification of raw materials and finished products
- Chemical composition analysis of nanoparticle-based products and trace residue analysis (ICP-AES, ICP-MS)
- Nanoparticle size and shape determination by SEM
- Count and particle size distribution measurement by SEM, DLS, Laser Granulometry
- Characterization of nanoparticles’ surfaces, Zeta Potential, ATG, SEM, FTIR, Raman, ToF-SIMS, XPS
- BET specific surface area measurement and Helium Pycnometry density measurement
- Development and validation of analytical methods specific to nanomaterials found in food products
- Container/Contents interaction testing
- Nanoparticle detection by SP-ICP-MS or A4F-ICP-MS
- Literature and regulatory reviews
- Analytical training
*Our accreditation scope covers :
- Nanoparticle size and shape distribution using SEM-EDX
- Nanoparticle size determination using SP-ICP-MS
(Details available at www.cofrac.fr – accreditation n°1-1793)
