The advent of nanotechnology has unleashed enormous prospects for the development of new products and applications for a wide range of industrial and consumer sectors. Many countries have identified its potential in the food and agriculture sectors and are investing significantly in its applications to food production. However, owing to our limited knowledge of the human health effects of these applications, many countries recognize the need for early consideration of the food safety implications of the technology. In response to this request, FAO and WHO have considered it appropriate to convene an Expert Meeting on the topic in order to identify further work that may be required to address the issue at a global level.