According to a report by iRAP,

Nano-Enabled Packaging For The Food And Beverage Industry - A Global Technology, Industry And Market Analysis , the total nano-enabled food and beverage packaging market in the year is forecasted to grow to $7.30 billion by 2014, at a compound annual growth rate of 11.65 percent. On January 21, 2010, U.S. Senators Mark Pryor (D-AR) and Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD) introduced The Nanotechnology Safety Act of 2010.

The legislation aims to address potential health and safety risks about products that contain nanotechnology materials by establishing a program within the FDA to assess the health and safety implications of nanotechnology in everyday products. The Nanotechnology Safety Act of 2010 also would support the development of best practices for companies who employ nanotechnology. To support these goals, the legislation authorizes $25 million each year from 2011 through 2015.

"Nanotechnology is one of the most important and enabling technologies being developed right now, and it has hundreds of promising applications - from new cancer treatments to improved military machinery to stain-resistant pants," Pryor said. "As these products are developed and used, we must understand any potential risks to human health, safety or the environment. My legislation will help ensure public safety and confidence in the marketplace, and it will support companies that employ nanotechnology materials."

"Nanotechnology touches so many facets of our lives today and will play a greater role in the future, but the benefits to industry and consumers come with unknown risks that must be identified and managed appropriately," said Cardin.