EFSA Will Hold Stakeholder Workshop on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) will hold a stakeholder workshop on nanoscience and nanotechnology on April 1-2, 2019, in Parma, Italy.  As reported in our July 5, 2018, blog item, “EFSA Publishes New Guidance on Nanotechnologies in Food and Feed,” in July 2018, EFSA published new guidance on how to assess the safety of nanoscience and nanotechnology applications.  The guidance covers novel foods, food contact materials, food and feed additives, and pesticides, taking into account new developments that have taken place since publication of the previous guidance in 2011.  During the April 1-2, 2019, workshop, applicants can raise specific issues, give and follow presentations, and discuss with EFSA scientists their experiences in implementing the guidance.  EFSA intends the workshop for all applicants with expertise and interest in the area of risk assessment of nanoscience and nanotechnology applications in the food and feed chain.  EFSA particularly encourages stakeholders that are using nanoscience and nanotechnologies and intend to submit dossiers to attend the event.  The meeting can accommodate a maximum of 60 participants, including speakers and other experts identified by EFSA.  EFSA states that a “post-registration selection” will ensure there is a sufficient representation of the various fields of expertise and sectors, as well as geographical balance.  Registration will close on February 28, 2019.  After closure of registration, EFSA will inform potential participants whether they have been selected for participation.