Nanotechnology in organic production?
Nanotechnology refers to an uprising field of technology dealing with matter on the atomic and molecular scale. Nano-particles are particles with a size range of 1 to 100 nm (1 nm = 1 nanometer = 1 billionth of a meter). Nanoparticles have several applications related to organic farming: packaging of food, coating of surfaces, processing aids, pesticides, veterinary medicine, treatment of textiles, ingredients for cosmetics (sunscreens). Nanotechnology is poorly defined and even more poorly regulated at the moment. It offers new prospects in several areas, but it also carries risks.
The organic sector has not yet decided whether nanoparticles should be allowed or prohibited, and if allowed, under what conditions. This page summarizes some of the discussions on nanotechnology in organic production.
At the IFOAM Organic World Congress 2008, the participants of the workshop «nanotechnology» decided that a task force nanotechnology should be established.
Addressing nanotechnologies in organic standards and regulations
Nanotechnology and the Swiss organic food industry
Nanotechnology in organic food production with a focus on packaging
Presentations held at the IFOAM Organic World Congress June 2008 in Modena
June 2008, Berlin
