A recent study applied machine learning to investigate which physicochemical and experimental factors were most involved in genotoxicity of titanium dioxide (TiO2). The findings confirmed that exposure concentration, cell medium composition, and lysis temperature in the comet assay correlate with DNA damage. The identified correlations could provide valuable insights for standardizing this test. However, the study methods and findings are too limited to identify new parameters involved in genotoxicity. Also, the scope was not aimed at providing evidence on the genotoxicity of TiO2, and therefore the study has no direct relevance for the discussion on the carcinogenicity classification of TiO2 nanomaterials.

A recent review discusses the suitability of in vitro models for studying the intestinal uptake of nanomaterials. While Caco-2 cell models are widely recognised for studying chemical uptake, their suitability for nanomaterials is limited due to the complex physiological processes involved, prompting the need for more advanced co-culture models. Significant knowledge gaps remain, especially in standardising and assessing how well these models mimic human biology and relevant exposure scenarios. Currently, the first steps towards harmonization of new approach methodologies as a tool to predict intestinal uptake of nanomaterials are being taken.

Advancements in nanoscience over the past 25 years have significantly influenced fields like nanoelectronics, bionanotechnology, and nanophotonics, driving innovations in computing, healthcare, and energy. Two key publications celebrate these achievements while underscoring the necessity for robust safety governance frameworks to address health, environmental, and ethical concerns associated with nanomaterials. As the integration of nanotechnology into everyday life accelerates, understanding the risks and benefits of these materials becomes crucial, prompting a call for proactive, adaptive regulatory approaches and international collaboration.

A recent review highlights the potential of using common waste materials, such as fruit peels and food waste, for the sustainable synthesis of nanoparticles, utilizing their rich natural compounds as reducing and stabilizing agents. This green chemistry approach enhances production efficiency compared to traditional methods, offering significant economic and environmental benefits by using biomass waste streams and reducing raw material costs. Challenges remain regarding consistency, long-term safety, and scaling up production. There is a need for clear regulatory guidelines and standardised toxico¬logical evaluations which are improved to enable wider industrial adoption.

MXenes (pronounced maxenes) are a unique family of two-dimensional materials. Current regulatory frameworks struggle to effectively manage MXenes due to their distinct properties and lack of appropriate safety testing methods. The OECD's Early4AdMa methodology highlights the need for improved characterisation, toxicity testing, and greener production processes for titanium carbide MXenes, emphasising the limited data available on their health and environmental impacts. Proactive regulation and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential as MXenes move closer to commercialisation, ensuring that safety and sustainability considerations are incorporated into the development of advanced materials.

The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has recently determined that hydroxyapatite (HAP) in nanoform is safe for use in oral care products, with concentrations up to 29.5% in toothpaste and 10% in mouthwash. New safety showed that HAP nano does not cause genetic mutations, cytotoxicity, or inflammation, and is not significantly taken up by cells. The safety assessment applies only to specific types of HAP nano particles that meet certain criteria, such as rod-shaped particles with specific length-to-width ratios and no surface modifications. The case demonstrates that high-quality in vitro safety data can increase the possibilities of safely marketing nanomaterials.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recently evaluated silver as a food additive (E 174) and concluded that it cannot confirm its safety. This uncertainty arises from significant gaps in scientific data, particularly regarding the physicochemical properties and potential toxicity of silver particles at the nanoscale. The EC will consider EFSA's opinion when shaping its policy on the use of E 174 as a food additive.

Recent advancements in food packaging that use nanotechnology have the potential to improve food quality and safety by extending freshness, repairing damaged packaging, and informing consumers about spoilage. These innovations also offer sustainability benefits by reducing food waste and providing more environmentally friendly packaging options. However, it is crucial to ensure the safety of nanomaterials in food packaging for human health. A “safe-and-sustainable-by-design” approach can help balance innovation, sustainability, recyclability, and safety in packaging development.

Researchers tested the Prevention through Design (PtD) approach by examining the transition from laboratory-scale to pilot-scale production of Few-Layer Graphene (FLG). Based on PtD principles, they recommended reducing worker exposure to FLG during pilot-scale production through measures like using closed systems, local exhaust ventilation, and semi-automatic storage systems. The use of PtD in this study provides valuable insights on safety measures during scale up of nanomaterial production in similar settings.

Researchers have proposed an approach to create metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) that are designed to be safe and sustainable. The approach categorises the transformations that these materials undergo, helping to prevent the formation of harmful transformation products. MOFs are composed of metal clusters linked to organic compounds, resulting in porous structures that are useful in various applications, including catalysis, energy storage, water treatment, and sensors. By adopting a safe and sustainable approach in their design, the full potential of MOFs can be realised.