The European Food Safety Authority this week published a guidance document for the risk assessment of engineered nanomaterial (ENM) applications in food and feed. The document is the first of its kind to give guidance for addressing the potential risks that arise from applications of nanotechnology in the food and feed chain. Risk assessments for such food and feed applications as food additives, enzymes, flavorings, food contact materials, novel foods, feed additives and pesticides are included. The document sets out the considerations for risk assessment of ENM that may arise due to their specific characteristics and properties, while also stipulating the additional data needed for the physical and chemical characterization of ENM, in contrast with conventional applications. The different toxicity testing approaches applicants will have to follow are outlined. According to Vittorio Silano, Chair of EFSA’s Scientific Committee, “A thorough characterisation of the engineered nanomaterials followed by adequate toxicity testing is essential for the risk assessment of these applications. Yet we recognise uncertainties related to the suitability of certain existing test methodologies and the availability of data for ENM applications in food and feed. The guidance makes recommendations about how risk assessments should reflect these uncertainties for food and feed applications.” The guidance document reflects the 256 public comments received from 36 organizations spanning academia, non-governmental organizations, industry, Member States, and international authorities. The work will be revised as appropriate.