Possibilities of Nanotechnology Application in the Food Sector with Reference on its Consumers Acceptance

Abstract

Nanotehnologija je jedna od najnovijih tehnologija koja je našla svoju primjenu u raznim granama industrije, uključujući i prehrambenu industriju. Ona ima važan utjecaj na znanost o hrani od toga kako je hrana proizvedena pa sve do toga kako je zapakirana. Nanotehnologija nudi niz prednosti za industriju i potrošače, ali treba uzeti u obzir i moguće rizike. Dostupna literatura ukazuje da mnoge nejasnoće oko nanomaterijala još uvijek postoje, uključujući i mogućnost bioakumulacije pa tako i potencijalne opasnosti za ljudsko zdravlje. Dok je moguća primjena nanotehnologije zaista široka i raznolika, razvoj se suočio s određenim oprezom, a napredak može biti stopiran zbog nedostatnog financiranja projekata i zbog potencijalnih rizika. U ovom radu prikazani su aspekti primjene nanotehnologije u prehrambenoj industriji, zakonodavni okvir te mišljenje potrošača o pitanju korištenja nanotehnologije u hrani.Nanotechnology is one of the newest technologies that found its application in various fi elds, including food and beverage industry. It has an important impact on many aspects of food science, from the field of production to the fi eld of packaging. Although, nanotechnology offers many advantages for industry and consumers; the possible risks of its application should be taken into account. Available literature suggests that many uncertainties remain about nanomaterials, including the potential for bioaccumulation and potential human health risks. While proposed applications of nanotechnologies are wide and varied, developments are met with some caution, while progress may be stifled by lack of projects financial support and potential risks. This paper presents various possibilities of nanotechnology application in the food industry, the legislative framework and the opinion of consumers regarding the use of nanotechnology in food