The Yunova® Pharma Laboratory is committed to food supplements without Nanoparticles: but what is it and what are the risks to our health?
Nano titanium dioxide in sunscreens, nano-silicon oxide in food, nano-silver in textiles… Nanoparticles have established themselves in our daily lives, in pharmacy, agri-food, construction and textiles. 10,000 times smaller than a grain of salt, they rightly raise some concerns.
What is a nanomaterial?
According to a definition proposed in 2011 by the European Commission, a nanomaterial is a material, natural or manufactured, of which at least 50% of the particles that compose it have a size between 1 and 100 nanometers (1 nm = 10-9 m). And it is this infinitely small size that gives these materials unprecedented physical, chemical and biological properties that are particularly interesting for manufacturers.
The reporting obligation is poorly respected
A European regulation obliges manufacturers since 2013 to clearly mention the presence of nanoparticles used in food, food supplements, cosmetics, biocidal products. But the law is not respected. Investigations carried out by the Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Prevention Department (DGCCRF) in 2017 revealed that out of around sixty products containing nanoparticles, only one was in order. On the other hand, no sanction has been imposed on recalcitrant manufacturers, the fine of which can reach 10% of the average annual turnover.
One of the most commonly used nanoparticles is nano-silicon oxide, or silica dioxide (called E551), an additive which prevents the aggregation of powdered foodstuffs (salt, sugar, soups, cocoa, etc.) or brings creaminess of certain products (frozen meals, ice cream, sauces, seasonings, etc.). It is commonly found in dietary supplements.
While they have never been shown to be harmless to health, animal studies suggest the occurrence of respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological or cancerous disorders. But all specialists agree on one point: with nanomaterials, it is impossible to generalize.
At Yunova® Pharma, we have banned controversial substances from our compositions. Please consult our Quality Charter.
