Health and supplement regulations are becoming increasingly strict. For several years now, we have not been allowed to state that nano silver and nano gold are suitable for ingestion. As of this year, the regulations go even further: nano silver and nano gold can no longer be used in cosmetic products. This decision lumps all nano materials together under the same restrictions. But why is this happening, and what does it mean for the future of natural products?
Why Are Nano Silver and Nano Gold Being Restricted?
Nano silver and nano gold have been used for centuries. Silver is well known for its antibacterial properties and was historically used in wound dressings and water purification. Nano gold has long been utilized in specific therapeutic applications and high-quality skincare. Until the late 20th century, these substances were even officially registered as medicines.
However, for several years, we have not been allowed to state that these products are suitable for ingestion. And now, their use in cosmetics is also being banned. This decision is not based on new scientific evidence proving that nano silver and nano gold are unsafe but rather on a broad policy that classifies all nano materials under the same regulations.
This restriction is part of a broader trend: only products that fit within the pharmaceutical or cosmetic regulatory framework can make health claims and be used in formulations. This means that natural products, supplements, and traditional remedies are increasingly scrutinized—not because they are more dangerous than before, but because they do not align with the current market model.
The Regulations Behind These Restrictions
European regulations regarding food, supplements, and cosmetics are becoming increasingly strict. While this is partly intended to protect consumers from misleading claims, it also has the effect of making natural products and alternative solutions harder to obtain.
Some recent regulatory developments:
Strict EFSA rules on health claims
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has rejected thousands of health claims in recent years, even those backed by scientific research. This means that manufacturers can no longer communicate the effects of many natural substances, even when scientific evidence supports their benefits.
Bans on specific supplement dosages
In some countries, maximum dosages for vitamins and minerals are being reduced, despite the lack of evidence that higher doses are harmful. Vitamin D, magnesium, and other key nutrients are increasingly being restricted.
Ban on nano silver and nano gold in cosmetics
As of this year, nano silver and nano gold can no longer be used in cosmetic products. This means that antibacterial creams and high-end skincare with gold particles can no longer be marketed. The ban is not based on proven risks of these substances but is instead part of a blanket regulation covering all nano materials without distinction.
‘Novel food’ regulations
If a food or supplement was not widely sold in the EU before 1997, it falls under the ‘novel food’ legislation. This means that new or less commonly used ingredients (such as CBD, nano minerals, and certain plant extracts) must undergo an extensive and costly approval process before they can be marketed.
These changes contribute to a situation where natural health products and cosmetics face increasing restrictions, while pharmaceutical alternatives remain widely available—even when they have significant side effects.
The Double Standard in Health Claims
One of the most striking contradictions in current regulations is how differently supplements, cosmetics, and medicines are treated.
Supplements cannot make health claims, even when supported by scientific research.
For example, magnesium contributes to muscle and nerve function, but according to regulations, it cannot be described as ‘healing’ or ‘restorative.’
Nano silver and nano gold are now banned from cosmetics, while synthetic chemicals with questionable safety records remain allowed.
Many conventional cosmetics contain ingredients known to disrupt hormones or irritate the skin, yet these remain legal as long as they fall within approved limits.
Medicines list side effects as ‘normal’ and acceptable risks.
Anyone who has ever read a medication leaflet knows how long the list of possible side effects can be. However, pharmaceutical products are still allowed to claim they treat specific conditions, whereas natural products that support the body’s functions cannot make similar statements.
The result? Consumers are becoming less informed about natural alternatives and increasingly dependent on pharmaceutical and synthetic solutions.
What Can You Do as a Consumer?
It is essential to stay critical and make conscious choices. Regulations are constantly changing and impact what is available on the market. However, this does not mean you have no control over your health.
Keep yourself informed
Look for independent information on supplements and natural products. Read scientific studies and real-world experiences.
Ask why certain products are being restricted
Is there a real safety risk, or is a product simply being excluded from pharmaceutical and cosmetic regulations?
Stay connected with providers of natural products
Companies like Meditech Europe are committed to making high-quality products available within legal frameworks. By staying informed, you can keep up with developments and possible alternatives.
Our Vision on Health
We believe that health is more than just treating symptoms with medication. The human body is a complex biological system that benefits from proper support, whether through nutrition, supplements, or other natural methods.
At Meditech Europe, we continue to offer high-quality products while remaining transparent about the challenges posed by regulations. Our mission remains to provide you with the best natural support, within the limits of the law.
Final Thoughts
The fact that we have not been allowed to state that nano silver and nano gold are suitable for ingestion for several years, and that as of this year, these substances are also banned in cosmetics, is not based on scientific conclusions but on evolving regulations.
By making informed choices and staying well-informed, you can decide what is best for your health. We will continue to support you in this journey—within the boundaries of the law. Want to know more? Get in touch at marijn@meditecheurope.nl.
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