Nanotechnology

Molecular biologist Benedicte Trouiller of UCLA (University of California at Los Angeles) conducted laboratory studies of nano-titanium dioxide on mice. Midway through her research Benedicte discovered that the nanoparticles were damaging or destroying the animals' DNA and chromosomes.

A science committee of the British House of Lords has found that nanomaterials are already appearing in numerous products, among them salad dressings and sauces. Jaydee Hanson, policy analyst for the Center for Food Safety, says that they're also being added to ice cream to make it "look richer and better textured."

A USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) scientist who wishes to remain anonymous says that Latin American countries spray US-bound produce with a wax-like nanocoating in order to extend its shelf-life.

"We found no indication that the nanocoating ... has ever been tested for health effects"

This researcher was part of a team that examined produce from Central and South American farms. The produce was bound for markets in the United States and Canada. The nanocoating was mnufactured in Asia.

In its official stance, the FDA states adamantly that currently no food containing nanomaterial is being sold in the United States.

Not true, say some of the agency's own safety experts, pointing to scientific studies published in food science journals, reports from foreign safety agencies and discussions in gatherings like the Institute of Food Technologists conference.

You can rest assured that the majority of the major food manufacturers are actively exploring or experimenting with nanomaterials. Almost 20 of the world's largest food manufacturers--including Nestle, Hershey, Cargill, Campbell Soup, Sara Lee, H.J. Heinz--have in-house nano laboratories, or have contracted with major universities to perform nano-related food product development.

These manufacturers would rather this information not be made public. Mum's the word.

I'd like to reiterate that nanotechnology is untested in humans. And laboratory studies have discovered disturbing health issues in the animals. Meanwhile we are being exposed to this untested technology through the food we eat and the personal care products and cosmetics we coat our bodies with.