Labeling nano-enabled consumer products

Abstract

► Increasing policy debate around labeling of nano-enabled consumer products. ► Voluntary labeling may help avoid confusion but will require a definition. ► Ethical debate on mandatory labeling: transparency versus stigma effect. ► Blanket mandatory labeling may be risky and difficult to implement. ► Partial labeling and other informative schemes could be used as alternatives. The labeling of nano-enabled consumer products is increasingly being discussed at the policy level. This article summarizes some of the main considerations in the emerging debate on nano labeling. Blanket mandatory labeling, while justifiable, does not appear to be feasible, useful, and/or beneficial at this stage of the technology and regulatory development process.