How are nanomaterials regulated in the EU?

JRC scientists reviewed the legislation of nanomaterials in the EU and identified key needs for better implementation thereof including safety assessment. Today, nanomaterials can be found in almost any industrial sector including consumer products.

The EU’s regulatory framework generally covers nanomaterials. Legislation on specific products (Cosmetic Products, Novel Foods, Biocidal Products, Medical Devices) address nanomaterials, including requirements for information on nanomaterials (labelling) and assessment of the safety of these materials. Other regulations implicitly apply to nanomaterials, e.g. the chemicals regulation REACH, as the regulations addresses all chemicals including nanomaterials. However, due to their novel and/or nanospecific properties and often different behaviour as compared to “ordinary” chemicals, there are uncertainties about the safety of nanomaterials and how to assess it properly.

Further details: How are nanomaterials regulated in the EU?