Nanomaterials

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is used in many industrial and commercial applications (food additives, cosmetics, pigments) and comes in different forms, both micro- and nanometric. ANSES is conducting work to assess the risks associated with the different routes of exposure to TiO₂, by ingestion and inhalation. Below is an update on the Agency’s various activities in this domain.

Silver nanoparticles are used in various industrial applications, in sectors such as food (additives, food packaging, internal linings of refrigerators), textiles (clothing and bedding) and cosmetic and hygiene products (toothbrushes, hair straighteners, disinfectant sprays, etc.). They are mainly used for their antibacterial and antifungal properties. However, it is still proving very difficult to obtain an inventory referencing all products containing silver nanoparticles in France and elsewhere in the world. In 2011, ANSES received a formal request to update knowledge on the assessment of health and environmental risks associated with exposure to silver nanoparticles.