FDA Nanotechnology Task Force Takes Positive Step Forward

Today’s report from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Nanotechnology Task Force is an important and positive step forward in the agency’s effort to tackle the new scientific and regulatory challenges posed by nanotechnology. The Task Force is clear and candid in acknowledging the pervasive potential of nanotechnology to affect virtually every product category FDA regulates—from pharmaceuticals and devices to cosmetics and food supplements— and in calling for a wide range of FDA actions to prepare for and execute its oversight role. While available evidence does not suggest that all materials with nanoscale dimensions will be hazardous, the Task Force correctly concludes that the agency needs new safety assessment tools, greater nano-specific staff expertise and more risk research to assess the likelihood of long-term health effects from exposure to specific nanoscale materials.

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