BfR recommends that nano-silver is not used in foods and everyday products
| Main Author: | German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment |
|---|---|
| Format: | Report |
| Terbitan: |
, 2010
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: |
https://zenodo.org/record/582187 |
Daftar Isi:
- Manufacturers of foods, cosmetics or everyday products have long been taking advantage of the antimicrobial properties of silver ions. Lotions may contain silver salts as preservatives and refrigerators or athletic socks and other textiles are equipped with silver compounds in order to inhibit the growth of germs or avoid the development of odours. In recent times, nanoscale silver compounds have also increasingly been used for these purposes. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) finds that a conclusive assessment of health risks associated with the widespread use of nano-silver is not possible at this time. Nanoparticles are particles with a diameter of less than 100 nanometres (nm). Several particular properties of these extremely small particles facilitate their use in various fields. Yet nanoparticles can also have adverse effects within the human organism. BfR finds that there is a need for research to clarify essential questions in regard to the use of nanoscale silver as antimicrobial agent: To what extent are consumers exposed to nanoscale silver particles? What are the effects of nano-silver in humans and how great is the potential to develop resistance towards silver and the spread of resistance towards silver or antibiotics? BfR recommends manufacturers to avoid the use of nanoscale silver or nanoscale silver compounds in foods and everyday products until such time that the data are comprehensive enough to allow a conclusive risk assessment which would ensure that products are safe for consumer health.
- DE; de; efsa-focal-point@bfr.bund.de