Perceptions of nanotechnology utilization in food: a pilot study

Abstract

Nanotechnology is a science field that includes research and applications carriedout in the sphere of below 100 nanometers. Nanofood is the result of the usageof nanotechnology in food production, processing, and packaging. The paperpresents results of a pilot study on perceptions of nanotechnology and its use infood production. A questionnaire was developed for the purpose of the study thatmeasured knowledge, perceptions and attitudes towards nanotechnology andnanoproducts in general and in food industry. The results of the analysissuggested lack of knowledge about nanotechnology and its utilisation in foodproduction. Motivation of respondents to purchase nanoproducts is low, mostlydue to perceptions of possible changes in food caused by the use ofnanotechnology. The respondents are aware of their poor understanding ofnanotechnology and perceive potential risks related to the utilisation ofnanotechnology. Education of consumers in relation to nanotechnology and itsutilisation in manucaturing, especially in food production, is a necessary step infuture development of this field.