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Press Release

Consumers unaware of nano-revolution

20 December 2007

Despite the fact that they are already being used in a wide range of consumer products, most people have no idea what nanotechnologies are, according to new research* by Which?

Six out of ten people (61 per cent) have never heard of nanotechnology – which uses materials on a tiny scale - and over a third of those who have (36 per cent) aren’t aware that nanotechnologies are being used to develop consumer products. However, electronic goods, washing machines, fridges, clothes, cosmetics, healthcare products and food supplements, which claim to be made using nanomaterials, are available to UK consumers.

Nanotechnologies have been used in some consumer products - such as computers and other electronic goods - for some time without raising concerns. However, the use of free nanoparticles in an increasing range of everyday products means that it isn't just consumers who are unsure about some uses of nanotechnologies.

The government is unclear about exactly what developments are taking place** and top scientists, including Government advisers, are calling for more research into the potential health and environmental risks posed by some free nanoparticles.

Which? chief policy adviser Sue Davies says:

“The benefits that nanotechnologies can offer consumers are really exciting. But before the market is flooded with products, it’s crucial the Government addresses the lack of scientific understanding about how some nanoparticles behave and makes sure that there are meaningful controls in place.

“Our research shows a real lack of public awareness of nanotechnologies, despite government commitments to engage the public over this new technology. The Government needs to get to grips with how this technology is being used, understand its implications and involve the public in decisions about its future direction'."

Notes to editors:

*Which? interviewed 2,091 adults aged 16+ between the 14th-18th November 2007 using a face-to-face omnibus survey.

**Which? is concerned that the Government doesn’t know which products are on the market or in the pipeline. In an attempt to address this, the Voluntary Reporting Scheme was launched in September 2006 by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).



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