The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) published data in April 2011 suggesting UK consumers are relatively more open to the use of nanotechnology in food contact applications, and identified the potential benefits of extended shelf life and waste reduction.

Nanoclays and nanobiocomposites have the potential to increase desired properties within biopolymers, potentially making them stronger and more cost effective.

Manisha Upadhyay of the novel foods unit at the FSA, states: 'The research showed that participants were initially nervous about the safety of products obtained using nanotechnology, but after being informed of the robust EU regulatory process that nanofoods would need to go through before they can be marketed in the EU, participants were generally reassured.'

The survey findings indicate that consumers may be more open to product innovations in food contact - such as food packaging and foodservice - if the benefits are apparent, for instance in the reduced environmental impact made possible by using bioplastics.

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