An increase in the number of dietary supplements made with Nanoparticles - so called "nanoceuticals" - is raising growing concerns about their potential for toxicity in the wake of little government oversight, according to an article scheduled for the Feb.9, 2009, on line issue of Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN).

In the article, C&EN Associate Editor Britt Erickson notes that manufacturers of dietary supplements are increasingly using nano-sized particles (about 1/5000th the width of a single human hair) to boost nutrient absorption, enhance mental focus and creativity, and other health-promoting functions. One non profit organization that tracks nanotechnology estimates at least 44 "nanoceuticals" are currently on the market, quadruple the number that existed three years ago.

But consumers have no way of knowing whether a "nanoceutical" is safe or whether it does what it claims to do, the article notes. Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not need to be reviewed by the FDA for safety and effectiveness before marketing. This lack of government oversight, coupled with growing concerns about the potential toxicity of Nanoparticles, has led consumer groups to urge regulators to do more to ensure that nanoceuticals are safe and effective. (www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/
090209075633.htm)

More information about safety of nanotechnology in your vitamins is available at
:www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/01/
090114114936.htm